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The Coast track

Royal National Park

Affected by closures, check current alerts 

Overview

Diversions and partial closures along Royal Coast Track

Royal Coast Track is closed between Garie and Little Garie Beach due to rock falls and erosion. You'll need to retrace your steps or exit the track prior to arriving at Garie or Little Garie beach.

Please check Royal Coast Track alerts for regular updates, or read more about planned infrastructure upgrades.

The Coast track in Sydney's Royal National Park is an epic multi-day walk between Bundeena and Otford. Enjoy incredible coastal lookouts, swimming spots, seasonal wildflowers and whale watching along this challenging track.

Where
Royal National Park in Sydney and surrounds, South Coast
Distance
26km one-way
Time suggested
2 days
Grade
Grade 5
Trip Intention Form

It's a good idea to let someone know where you're going. Fill in a trip intention form to send important details about your trip to your emergency contact.

Entry fees
Park entry fees apply
What to
bring
Drinking water, hat, snacks, sturdy shoes, suitable clothing, sunscreen, tent, sleeping bag, raincoat
Please note
  • It's not currently possible to walk Royal Coast Track end-to-end because of rock falls and erosion between Garie and Little Garie Beach.
  • Garie Road is closed due to previous flood damage so there's no vehicle access from Sir Bertam Stevens Drive to Garie Beach.
  • If you plan to walk the track please use our NPWS app and download maps for Royal National Park before you leave home.
  • You'll need to be well-prepared and bring enough water and food.
  • If driving to Bundeena it's a good idea to stop by the Royal National Park Visitor Centre for park information and maps.

Royal Coast Track can only be walked in sections currently. Plan your walk during whale watching season, May to October, for a chance to spot migrating humpback whales.

Take a virtual tour of The Coast track captured with Google Street View Trekker.

Track notes

Day 1

The northern section of the walk covers around 18km from Bundeena to the top of Curra Moors Loop track which will take you to a small car park on Sir Bertram Stevens Drive. 

Allow at least 7hrs to enjoy the rugged beauty of Royal National Park's sandstone escarpments, sandy beaches, coastal heath and forest, as you walk.

There are several scenic stops along the way, including Little Marley Beach, Wattamolla, and Curracurrang Cove near Eagle Rock lookout. Stop for a rest, have a picnic, or cool off with a swim before exiting the walk at Wattamolla or Sir Bertram Stevens Drive. 

Day 2

The southern section of the walk between Otford and Garrawarra Farm covers around 9km and takes about 3 hours.

Following the Ridge Trail north from Otford you'll travel along the top of the ridge line through coastal rainforest until you reach Garrawarra Farm car park.   

If you want to continue on you have the option of hiking down the hill to Burning Palms Beach and further north on Royal Coast Track to view the heritage shacks at North Era. However you'll need to return the same way back up the hill to Garrawarra Farm car park which requires an extra 1 to 2 hours for this extension. 

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Tours and events at this location

  • 2 women walking The Coast track in Royal National Park with the ocean in the background. Photo: © Women’s Fitness Adventures

    The Coast track fitness adventures for women

    Hike The Coast track and immerse yourself in the beauty of Royal National Park with Women’s Fitness Adventures. Enjoy coastal views and the company of a supportive group of women on this 4-day trek.

  • Youth trekking along The Coast track in Royal National Park. Photo: Alex Brown © Ausjourney

    The Coast track overnight hikes for youth

    Hike The Coast track in Royal National Park on an overnight trip with Ausjourney. Reconnect with nature and learn transferrable life skills on this trek for The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.

Along the way

  • Aerial photo of a cliff with a large safety fence around a section of land to prevent visitors being injured on Wedding Cake Rock. Photo: DPIE © DPIE

    Wedding Cake Rock

    Wedding Cake Rock is a popular and very fragile rock formation located along the challenging Coast track in Sydney's Royal National Park. Experience the beauty of this natural wonder without risking your safety.

  • Aerial view Wattamolla picnic area, Royal National Park. Photo: Andrew Elliot © DPE

    Wattamolla picnic area

    The coastal Wattamolla picnic area at Royal National Park is a popular family spot for swimming, fishing, snorkelling and bushwalking.

  • Figure Eight Pools headland near Burning Palms Beach, Royal National Park. Photo: David Croft/OEH

    Figure Eight Pools

    Figure Eight Pools is located on a dangerous rock shelf in Sydney's Royal National Park near Burning Palms Beach. Plan your trip using the wave risk forecast.

  • Raised boardwalk track surrounded by palms and tall forest. Photo: Natasha Webb

    Palm Jungle loop track

    A challenging yet spectacular walk, Palm Jungle loop track takes in rainforest, cliff tops, beaches and scenic coastal views in Royal National Park, near Otford.

 

Download our app

The free NSW National Parks app lets you download maps and explore parks, things to do and places to stay—all without mobile reception.

Hand holding a phone with NSW National Parks app on screen. Photo: Branden Bodman/DPIE

 

How to prepare for a multi-day hike

Preparation is key for a safe and enjoyable multi-day walk. If you’re new to overnight hiking, here’s a list of what to consider when planning your epic adventure.

Two walkers carrying overnight hiking packs walking up steps on the Murramarang multi-day coastal walk. Credit: Remy Brand © DPE

General enquiries

Operated by

Park info

  • in Royal National Park in the Sydney and surrounds and South Coast regions

  • Royal National Park is open 7am to 8.30pm but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

  • Park entry fees:

    $12 per vehicle per day. Payment options include Audley Visitor Centre, vehicle entry stations, pay machines and the Park’nPay app.

    Vehicles over 8 seats: $4.40 per adult, $2.20 per child (per day). Students on educational programs: $1.10 per student. Teachers/educational supervisors: free (1 adult per 10 students).

    Buy annual pass
See more visitor info

What's nearby:

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Tours (20)

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Itinerary (1)

Camping and accommodation (7)

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School excursions (16)