The Coast Track

Download & Print Map and Notes

2 Days

27.4 km One way

1351 m

Hard track

Heading south, this walk covers the coastline of the Royal National Park and can truly only be described as amazing. With breathtaking coastal views from Bundeena to Otford this walk follows the cliffs along a well managed and signposted track. You will enjoy the truly fantastic views out to sea and along the cliffs. Make an early start for day two, it is bigger that it appears.

Looking down on Marley Beach from Marley Head

Climbing up to the southern headland of Marley Beach

The cliffs from the southern headland of Marley Beach

A cleft in the cliffs near the Curracurrang Track Intersection

The track goes through the scrub following the coast

Looking at Garie Beach and the coast from the north

The grasslands on the top of many of the hills

The view of the coast from the grasslands south of Burning Palms Beach

The view of the Coast from just south of the Werrong Beach Intersection

Bundeena

Bundeena is a small township at the northern end of Royal National Park and the southern side of the entrance to Port Hacking. The town can be accessed by car or ferry. There are a few B&B's and other accommodation options and a number of cafes to choose from. Bundeena has a mixed atmosphere, partly a beach holiday community but also home to some permanent residents. There are two main beaches - Hordens Beach to the west and Jibbon Beach to the east. Both are nice beaches inside Port Hacking. More info.

(0km) Bundeena Ferry Wharf → Int of Beachcomber Rd Service Trail and Coast Walk

1.8 km

34 mins

71m

-23m Moderate track

From Bundeena Ferry, on Brighton St, this walk turns left into Loftus St, goes past Mary St and turns right into Bournemouth St. The walk turns left into Scarbourough St and takes the first right into Beachcomber Av. Beachcomber Av is followed south and gradually to the east until reaching the entry into the Royal National Park. This is marked by several large information signs.
Continue straight: From the end of Beachcomber Av, this walk heads around the locked gate, following the 'Coast Walk'[1] sign along the wide management trail. After about 50m, the trail passes a track (on the left) and continues until coming to an intersection with a wider sandy trail (on the left, which leads to Jibbon Head).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the asphalt management trail heading towards the green signposts nearby, where it comes to the signposted intersection of the 'Coast Track'[2].

(2km) Int of Beachcomber Rd Servicetrail and Coast Walk → Bundeena Lookout

690 m

12 mins

-27m Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Coast Track' signpost along the wide, sandy bush track as it winds through the short, thick scrub for a while before arriving at the coast, where there are great views across the South Pacific Ocean.

Bundeena Lookout

This unfenced, informal lookout is perched high on the cliffs, looking east over the South Pacific Ocean. The lookout is not signposted nor officially named, but provides great view south along the escarpment. Cliff edge may be unstable and fragile - keep a safe distance.

(2km) Bundeena Lookout → West Marley Beach

3.9 km

1 hr 19 mins climb

136m

-156m Moderate track

Turn right: From the lookout, this walk follows the bush track winding south along the coast line, keeping the ocean to the left as it winds in and out of scrub and across several rock surfaces. On a few occasions, the track will split into two and meet up again a short while later - just stick to the track closer to the coast. This walk follows the track markers until coming to a large gully, where it winds to the bottom via some steep rock steps. Once at the bottom, the track crosses the small stream at the wooden bridge and continues up the other side of the gully, climbing up the wooden steps and the hardened path to the top. From the top of the gully, the track continues along the path heading through the high heath for about 1.5km, until coming to an intersection with a management trail. This intersection is marked by a signpost saying 'Coast Walk'.
Veer left: From the signposted intersection, the walk follows the coast, keeping the ocean to the left. The track winds down the long hill to the end of Marley Beach, and comes to a large green information sign.
Continue straight: From the end of Marley Beach, this walk follows the coast along the beach until coming to the rock-shelf at the end. Marley Beach is very beautiful and, on a warm day, it would be a great spot to swim. On the rockshelf at the end of the beach, there are some shady spots to break from the walk. (At this, point there is also an intersection with a small bush track that heads up the hill and away from the beach.)

(6km) West Marley Beach → Little Marley Beach

680 m

12 mins

-15m Moderate track

Veer left: From the end of the beach, this walk heads up and along the rock-shelf to following the coast as the bush track weaves in and out of the short heath for a short while. The track then comes to an intersection with an unmarked bush track going off to the right and away from the cliffs.
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track winding along the coast, keeping the ocean and the cliffs to the left. The track winds down the hill for a while before coming to the end of Little Marley Beach.

Little Marley Beach

Little Marley Beach, Royal National Park, is a yellow sand beach, approximately 140m long. The narrow beach faces north-east and has a rock platform at either end. The beach is not patrolled and has no other services. For information on this beach's pollution levels, follow the 'more info' link below. More info.

(7km) Little Marley Beach → Wattamolla Dam

2.8 km

1 hr 8 mins climb

174m

-155m Moderate track

Continue straight: From Little Marley Beach, this walk follows the coast across the beach, keeping the ocean to the left as it climbs up the signposted bush track at the end to the clifftop. From here, the track follows the coast line for a short period before passing over numerous sections of metal footbridge. This continues through the scrub vegetation, with short periods where the track comes back onto the rockshelf above the cliff, until the track changes to purely being a well-managed bush track through the high scrub, as it winds along to the signposted intersection of the Coast Track.
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads south-west along the bush track, heading down the long hill through the high scrub and down through some rocks, as it approaches the small swimming hole made by the dam in Wattamolla Creek.

Wattamolla Dam

Wattamolla pool (or dam), Royal National Park, is a small water hole on Wattamolla Creek, above the lagoon. The pool is on the Coast Track near Wattamolla picnic area and offers a quiet spot for a dip and a rest. The pool is formed by a small, constructed sandstone dam and fed by a small waterfall above.

(10km) Wattamolla Dam → Northern End Wattamolla Picnic Ground

650 m

13 mins

17m

-31m Moderate track

Continue straight: From the creek, (which may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain) this walk heads west (keeping the swimming hole on the left) along the bush track. The walk winds through the tall scrub and down the long hill until crossing the wide, shallow creek to the Wattamolla Picnic Ground on the other side.

Wattamolla Kiosk

The Wattamolla Kiosk in the Wattamolla Picnic Area provides basic supplies for day visitors. The kiosk does not keep strict hours and opens depending on weather and demand. It usually opens on weekends at around 10:30am and closes between 4 and 6pm. You can buy ice-creams, drinks and some hot food. For more information, call Audley Kiosk on (02) 9521 2240.

Wattamolla Picnic Area

Wattamolla Picnic Area is found at the end of Wattamolla Road, about halfway along the coastline of Royal National Park. The area is blessed with a great beach, a lagoon and some wonderful creeks and rocks to explore. The small beach faces west and is tucked away in a deep bay. The lagoon sits behind the beach and is lined with sand on one side, and cliffs and rocks on the other shore. The picnic area has large open grassy areas, with some shade provided by trees and some picnic shelters. There is a small kiosk (often open weekends), toilets, electric BBQs and two car parks. There is water here, but needs to be treated before drinking. There is a gate on the road that is locked at night, the gate is open from 7am to 8:30pm.

(10km) Northern End Wattamolla Picnic Ground → Overflow Carpark

340 m

8 mins

21m

-4m Easy track

Continue straight: From the northern end of the picnic ground, this walk heads through the car park and across the grass to the toilet block.
Turn right: From the toilet block, this walk follows the signs to the Overflow Car Park. (This is the upper car park.) At the back of the car park, this walk comes to an intersection with a large management trail, with a gate and signpost saying 'Garrie 5.8km'.

(11km) Overflow Carpark → Curracurrang Cove

1.4 km

26 mins

28m

-49m Moderate track

Turn left: From the car park, the walk follows the management trail climbing up the long hill. The walk passes two large water towers as it continues along for a while, before coming to a great lookout over the ocean, marked by a sign saying 'Curracurrang'. From the lookout, the walk continues along the cliff edge, keeping the ocean to the left as it follows the bush track. The track winds along the coast to Curracurrang Cove, where there is an intersection with another bush track that heads up and away from the ocean.

Curracurrang Cove

Curracurrang Cove is a small cove about 1km SW of Wattamolla, on the coast of the Royal National Park. The cove faces east and is where Curracurrang Creek meets the ocean. The creek, the cove and the surrounding rocks provide great scenery, making this a relaxing place to stop and enjoy. There is evidence that Aboriginal people lived in this cove. There are a few middens in the area, some rock shelters and Curracurrang creek provides a near-permanent water supply. The cove was first occupied 7500 years ago and was used as a regular campsite by the Dharawal people. More info.

(12km) Curracurrang Cove → Eagles Rock Lookout

1.9 km

44 mins

108m

-82m Moderate track

Turn left : Keeping the ocean to the left, the track climbs up out of Curracurang Cove and continues all the way up to the top of the large hill, winding through the thick heath across the top and down the other side to Curracurang Creek at the bottom. After crossing the creek, the track follows the bushtrack heading up short hill and along the bushtrack winding through the scrub for a short while before coming to the Eagle Rock lookout at the information signpost.

Eagle Rock Lookout

Eagle Rock lookout is an informal lookout marked by an information sign on the Coast track in the Royal National Park. The lookout is about halfway between Garie Beach and Wattamolla. Eagle rock is a piece of the cliff line that looks amazingly like the head of an eagle, with the eye and all. The lookout is about 150m west of the Eagle Rock on the other side of Carracurrong Creek. Eagle Rock is often used as an icon for the Royal National Park. Carracurrong Creek also forms a waterfall into the ocean nearby.

(14km) Eagles Rock Lookout → Int. Coastal Walk and Curra Moors Brook Trail

140 m

3 mins

-4m Moderate track

Continue straight: Keeping the ocean to the left the track follows the bushtrack heading through the heath along the coast for a short while until it comes to the intersection of the bushtrack at the end of the service trail, marked by the two post's where the sign has been pulled off.

(14km) Int. Coastal Walk and Curra Moors Brook Trail → Garie Beach Lookout

2.5 km

54 mins

129m

-64m Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads along the bush track and the rockshelf, keeping the ocean on the left. This continues, with the track becoming a narrow trail that goes through the scrub. In various sections, metal walkways have been built to stabilise the environment in the area. This continues until reaching an intersection with a track, heading off to the right.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track around the left-hand side of the 'Curra Moors car park' sign, following the cliffs and keeping the ocean on the left of the track. After several hundred metres of high scrub, the track emerges out into the opening which has fantastic views of Garie Beach and the hills to the south.

Garie Beach Lookout

Garie Beach Lookout is an unofficial lookout on the hill at the eastern end of Garie Beach. The lookout has no facilities and is simply a spot on the Coast track. The lookout provides great views looking southwest along the coast along Garie Beach, Royal National Park and down to Wollongong.

(17km) Garie Beach Lookout → North-East End of Garie Beach

510 m

13 mins

-105m Hard track

Continue straight: From Garie Beach Lookout, this walk follows the bush track heading down towards Garie Beach, winding down the long hill, descending the steep rock and wooden steps to the bottom of the hill where the walk continues through the grassy clearing to the end of the beach.

(17km) North-East End of Garie Beach → Int. Garie Beach YHA Trk

380 m

7 mins

11m

-5m Easy track

Continue straight: From the end of Garie Beach, the walk follows the coast across the beach, keeping the ocean to the left until coming to the base of some timber steps, which lead up the hill on the right.

(18km) Int. Garie Beach YHA Trk → Garie Beach YHA

340 m

10 mins

48m

-9m Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the stairs away from the ocean. The track winds up the hill steeply then continues for approximately 350m along the hillside, in and out of a gully, to rise up to the cabin signposted as 'YHA Garie Beach'. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn right.

YHA Garie Beach - Destroyed

**On 02/12/2010 this hut was completely destroyed by fire and plans for the future are not yet decided . Accommodation no longer available Garie Beach YHA Youth Hostel, in Royal National Park, is a basic but comfortable cabin. The unstaffed and locked cabin is situated north of Garie Beach car park, high on the hill behind the next gully. The cabin contains solar lighting, water, gas kitchen, a 'loo with a view' and the capacity to sleep twelve people. You need to provide your own bed sheets and toilet paper. The cabin costs $17.50/adult per night, with the potential to rent the youth hostel out for a week. The key must be picked up from YHA Kent St, Sydney, prior to arrival at the YHA. The key has a $50.00 deposit. To make a booking phone 9261 1111. More info.

(18km) Int. Garie Beach YHA Trk → Garie Beach Car Park

310 m

6 mins

-6m Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, the walk heads along the beach, keeping the ocean on your left, for approximately 200m to Garie Beach car park on the right.

Garie Beach

Garie Beach, Royal National Park, is a large, south-east facing, yellow sand beach. The beach is backed by steep headlands and gullies. There is a large car park at the end of Garie Rd for access to the beach. Garie Beach is popular for surfing, patrolled 9am-5pm from December to January. Facilities include toilets, kiosk, picnic tables, cold showers and Surf Life Saving Club. The water from the shower should be treated before drinking, this water comes from a tank and may be unavailable during dry periods. More info.

(18km) Garie Beach Car Park → North Era Bush Campground

1.6 km

43 mins

121m

-121m Moderate track

Turn left: From the Garie Beach car park, the walk follows the sign to 'North Era', keeping the sea to the left. This track follows the base of the large grassy hill between the rocks and the ocean, to the Little Garie cabins and up past the Little Garie Community Hall.
Continue straight: From the community hall in Little Garie, the walk heads steeply up the hill, following the track to the south-west. To prevent erosion of the hill, wooden steps have been installed. From the top of the ridge, the track continues down the other side, keeping the ocean on the left while winding down into North Era Bush Campground.

North Era camping ground

North Era camping ground, Royal National Park, is a large dune area situated directly behind North Era Beach. This camping spot is popular with surfers, and it also has a toilet and a cleared area to pitch your tent. A maximum of 36 people (12 sites) can camp here, so there is plenty of room for everyone. Open fires are not permitted, you can carry a fuel stove for cooking. A camping permit is required from NPWS before arriving (Phone:(02) 9542 068). Water is often available from the creek (treat before drinking), If dry you can walk to Garie Beach for water, although the water here may also be dried up, during a dry period it is best to carry all your water with you.

End of day 1

This is the planned overnight stay for the end of day 1, happy camping.

(20km) North Era Bush Campground → Int of Coast Track and Burgh Ridge Track (Sth)

1.1 km

27 mins

96m

-20m Moderate track

Continue straight: From the North Era Bush Campground, the walk heads up the grassy hill, keeping the ocean to the left. Just before the buildings, the walk comes to an intersection with a track on the right (which heads into the trees).
Continue straight: From the top of the ridge, the walk heads down the hill, keeping the ocean to the left as it winds down between the cabins to the beach at the bottom. From here, the walk continues around the back of the beach following the coast, and up between the houses to the large clearing before the top of the hill. Here, the walk comes to an intersection with two rough bush tracks towards the top of the hill.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill and through the ferns, heading up and away from the cabins but still keeping the sea to the left of the track. This continues until the track comes to a large sign saying 'Coast Track'.

(21km) Int of Coast Track and Burgh Ridge Track (Sth) → Burning Palms Beach (southern end)

940 m

18 mins

-79m Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the sign to 'Burning Palms' along the bush track, winding down the side of the hill, past the cabins, then at the bottom the track joins onto a metal walkway that soon changes to a narrow bush track. This passes behind Burning Palms Beach until coming to a sign saying 'Otford via Palm Jungle'.

(22km) Burning Palms Beach (southern end) → The Squeeze Way and Burning Palms Tracks

3 km

1 hr 20 mins climb

307m

-83m Hard track

Veer right: From the intersection near the rangers' hut, the walk follows the 'Otford' signpost along the defined bush track up and along the coast. After walking through grasslands for some time, the track comes to a very faint intersection with the Figure Eight Pool's track, just before the dense palm jungle[5].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track heading up into the palm jungle. After entering the jungle, the track is quite clear but in some places there are obstacles, such as fallen trees and branches. The track continues in this manner for some time before turning inland and climbing steeply up to the top of the large hill. At the top, the track flattens out and heads towards the ocean, soon arriving at an intersection with a management trail. At this point there are several signposts pointing towards 'Otford' and 'Carawarra Farm'.

(25km) The Squeeze Way and Burning Palms Tracks → Otford Lookout

1.9 km

43 mins

58m

-118m Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, the track follows the Otford arrow down the service trail, as it winds through the bush to the end where it becomes a bush track. From here, the track continues along the well-managed bush track through a beautiful section of ferns. After a while, this begins to gradually descend until reaching an intersection marked with a signpost for 'Werrong Beach'.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track, winding down the hill for a short while before coming to the fenced-off edge of the cliffs, which it follows keeping the ocean to the left as it winds down the hill. After a while, the track changes back to a bush track and continues down some wooden stairs to a car park signposted as 'Otford Lookout'.

(27km) Otford Lookout → Otford Train Station

800 m

24 mins

37m

-97m Moderate track

Veer left: From the lookout and the car park, this walk follows the 'Otford Station' sign along Lady Wakehurst Drive to quickly meet Fanshawe Rd. This walk turns right onto Fanshawe Rd, which it follows down the long hill until it comes to the intersection of Station St. At the intersection, this walk turns left and continues along the road, passing the intersection with another road heading down to the right and coming to the 'T' intersection of the next dirt road. From here, the walk continues down the hill following the 'Otford Station' signs down the steep concrete path, and down the steps to the station.

Maps for the The Coast Track walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Otford	1:25 000 Map Series	91294S OTFORD	NSW-91294S
Port Hacking	1:25 000 Map Series	91294N PORT HACKING	NSW-91294N
Port Hacking	1:100 000 Map Series	9129 PORT HACKING	9129

Cross sectional view of the The Coast Track bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the The Coast Track

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

		Length	27.4 km
		Time	2 Days
		.
Grade 4/6 Hard track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Very steep (4/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		Signs	Directional signs along the way (3/6)
		Experience Required	Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
		Weather	Weather generally has little impact on safety (1/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk

Gradient

19km of this walk has short steep hills and another 3.5km is very steep. Whilst another 3.5km has gentle hills with occasional steps and the remaining 1.5km is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

16km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 9km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. The remaining (2km) follows a smooth and hardened path.

Signs

Around 15km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 12km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

Around 17km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 10km requires some bushwalking experience.

weather

This whole walk, 27km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure

Around 17km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 10km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Similar walks

A list of walks that share part of the track with the The Coast Track walk.

Garie Beach YHA

1.3 km Return, 45 mins

**On 02/12/2010 this YHA was completely destroyed by fire and plans for the future are not yet decided** This track is the only access to Garie Beach YHA. If you leave your car in the Garie Beach car park it is easy to head up to the hostel, before spending the rest of your time down at the beach. T

Total climbing: 68m

Moderate track

Providential Point

1.6 km Return, 45 mins

Providential Point is a quick and easy walk to see some beautiful coastline. The walk passes through the Providential Point campsite and continues out to the fenced cliff edge. These views are complemented by the large cliffs on either side of the lookout on this great short walk.

Total climbing: 49m

Easy track

Wattamolla picnic area to Wattamolla Dam

1.7 km Return, 45 mins

This short return walk starts from the Wattamolla picnic area car park, and winds north along the Coast Track to the Wattamolla Dam. The small dam is nestled below a waterfall on Wattamolla creek and is a great spot for a quiet dip before lunch.

Total climbing: 59m

Moderate track

Wattamola picnic area to Curracurrang Cove

3.1 km Return, 1 hr 15 mins

This return walk starts from the southern car park at the Wattamolla picnic area and winds south, further into the Royal National Park. The walk follows the service trail that provides views across the coast and then follows a bush track down into Curracurrang Cove. The cove is a nice narrow nook

Total climbing: 91m

Moderate track

Garie Beach to North Era Beach

3.2 km Return, 2 hrs

This walk is the shortest walk to North Era Beach and starts from the Garie car park. Both beaches are popular surfing beaches, and have either camping or basic hostel accommodation. This makes the walk between the beaches an excellent way to transport boards and supplies for your surf retreat, week

Total climbing: 242m

Moderate track

Stockyard spur to Garie Beach

3.3 km One way, 1 hr 45 mins

The walk down Stockyard Spur to Garie Beach is an excellent way to take in coastal views before following the Coastal Track. This is great if you are with a driver who is happy to drop you and wait for you are Garie Beach, or if you can do a car shuffle. You can always just walk back up. There ar

Total climbing: 142m

Hard track

Garawarra Farm to Garie Beach

3.9 km One way, 2 hrs

This walk starts at the large Garawarra Farm car park taking the ridge straight down to the coast. Look for the change in vegetation as you descend along the spur to the Coastal Track, before beach hopping your way to Garie Beach. The track is a great way to see some of Sydney's best coast, with ple

Total climbing: 156m

Moderate track

Curra Moors car park to Garie Beach

4.4 km One way, 1 hr 45 mins

This walk is another Royal National Park classic. The walk comes off a ridge to join with the Coastal Track's tour of the beaches. The walk starts at the small Curra Moors car park and heads through the heath and bush to the rock shelf at the coast. The track ends at Garie Beach. The beach has a kio

Total climbing: 65m

Hard track

Garie Road to Era Loop

5 km Circuit, 2 hrs 15 mins

This walk covers a great cross section of the environments in the Royal National park, with plenty of places to rest and take in the views. The walk follows the Squeeze Way from Garie Rd, then heads down Stockyard Spur to Era Gully. The walk then heads up to the old Garawarra Farm, via Burgh Ridge,

Total climbing: 271m

Hard track

Garawarra Farm carpark to figure eight pools

6 km Return, 2 hrs 30 mins

This return walk starts from the old Garawarra Farm car park and heads down the ridge through the Royal National Park, to the coast. The walk then follows the coast, through Burning Palms beach, and around the base of the headland to the famous Figure Eight Pools. This walk explores 4 distinct env

Total climbing: 273m

Hard track

Bundeena to Jibbon Head Circuit

6.8 km Circuit, 2 hrs 30 mins

On this loop walk you will enjoy some grand ocean views, a few secluded beaches, rock shelves and some Aboriginal engravings. The walk starts in the community of Bundeena and follows the roads to Jibbon Beach then along the track to Jibbon Head and Shelley beach, then a long stretch of sandy manage

Total climbing: 139m

Moderate track

Wattamolla to Eagle Rock Lookout

7.4 km Return, 3 hrs

The walk from Wattamolla picnic area to Eagle Rock is an excellent way to see the the Royal coastline and the Eagle Rock formation. This walk heads south from Wattamolla, following the Coast Track, leaving the sea cliffs for a while to pass through some beautiful heath, then back to the coast, to th

Total climbing: 292m

Moderate track

Wattamolla to Garie Beach

7.6 km One way, 3 hrs 30 mins

The Wattamolla to Garie Beach walk is a scenic coastal stroll which takes you along the top of the coastal cliffs, before dropping down to the fantastic Garie Beach. The coastal cliffs give views out to sea, with many ledges also giving views down onto the waves crashing into the rock. The descent o

Total climbing: 317m

Hard track

Garie Beach to Eagle Rock

7.7 km Return, 3 hrs

This walk, from Garie Beach to Eagle Rock, is another great way to explore the Royal National Park coastline. Eagle Rock is an iconic rock formation in the park, and this lookout provides a great view of it. The walk then returns to the expansive Garie Beach, offering more great views as you head d

Total climbing: 344m

Hard track

Burning Palms loop from Garawarra

8.2 km Circuit, 3 hrs 30 mins

This walk explores a variety of environments through the Royal National Park. From the old Garawarra farm, the walk heads along the Squeeze Way then down a ridge to Burning Palms. There is an optional side trip out to Figure Eight pools. Burning Palms offers a nice beach and a great place to rest

Total climbing: 398m

Hard track

Curra Moors Loop

9.2 km Circuit, 3 hrs 30 mins

A pleasant walk with some great views, mostly along service trails. The walk passes through heath and some areas of trees (flowering in spring). This walk follows the Coastal Track along the headland, giving great views along the coast and out to sea.

Total climbing: 242m

Hard track

Bundeena Road to Marley

9.7 km Return, 3 hrs 30 mins

This walk is the most direct route down to Big and Little Marley. The beaches are fantastic, secluded areas with Big Marley hosting a large sand dune and lagoon. The beaches are not patrolled and can have dangerous surf conditions, so take care. Deer Pool, and it's waterfall, is also a highlight on

Total climbing: 245m

Hard track

Wattamolla to Big Marley Beach

10.4 km Circuit, 4 hrs

This walk is an excellent loop which takes in both the coast and the heathy inland of Royal National Park. Nearly the whole walk has views of the sea. Big Marley and Little Marley are great places to wet the feet. The dunes behind Big Marley are also worth exploring, as is Deer Pools if time allows.

Total climbing: 343m

Moderate track

Bundeena to Marley Head

10.8 km Circuit, 3 hrs 20 mins

From Bundeena, this walk heads south to the coast and then loops around Marley Head. The environment changes from heath to open, rocky platforms along the cliffs. There are great views from Marley Head, and the section between Marley and Bundeena Lookout is just astounding. Look out for lizards in t

Total climbing: 274m

Moderate track

Marley Track

11 km Circuit, 4 hrs 30 mins

This walk takes you down from the ridge to the quiet Deer Pool on Marley Creek. You pass the Big and Little Marley beaches, with an optional side trip to Wattamola Dam. This side trip is well worth it on a hot day to take a dip. The walk then leads away from the coast to loop back to the starting po

Total climbing: 353m

Hard track

Garie Beach to Helensburgh (The Burgh Track)

11 km One way, 4 hrs 30 mins

This walk has a great mixture of ocean cliffs, with fantastic views, and beautiful forest. The walk follows the well maintained Burgh Track, passing great views of the ocean and the cliffs, before turning inland and exploring some eucalypt forest on the way to Helensburgh. The environment and views

Total climbing: 664m

Hard track

Bundeena to Marley Beach

12.7 km Return, 4 hrs 30 mins

Going from the small town of Bundeena, to one of the largest beaches in the Royal National Park, this walk has great views of the Coast as it heads south through the heath and along the rockshelf. The walk then descends to Marley Beach, which offers the opportunity to swim and explore the lagoon, be

Total climbing: 417m

Moderate track

Otford to Helensburgh

12.9 km One way, 5 hrs 15 mins

Largely along service trails and well managed bush tracks, this walk goes from train station to train station through parts of southern Royal National Park. The bush track between Garrawarra and the Hacking River is incredibly beautiful as it winds its way down the hill through shrouded eucalypt for

Total climbing: 589m

Hard track

Otford to Figure of Eight Pools via Burning Palms

13.2 km Return, 6 hrs 30 mins

From Otford Train Station, this walk enters the Royal National Park at the coast. There are great views of Wollongong down the coast. The walk also passes through the magnificent Palm Jungle and Burning Palms beach. This is a great spot to go, wet the toes, and enjoy the environment. The walk then c

Total climbing: 732m

Hard track

Mowlee Ridge to Garie Beach

13.3 km One way, 5 hrs

This is a long and scenic walk down to Garie Beach. The walk travels along the ridge and then the heath covered cliff edge, with views over the coast and far out to see, as it meanders along to the beautiful Garie Beach. The descent from the headland onto Garie Beach also gives magnificent views of

Total climbing: 357m

Hard track

Otford to Figure of Eight Pools Circuit

13.4 km Circuit, 6 hrs

Exploring the southern coast of Royal National Park, this walk experiences different trails and environments, with dense forest at Palm Forest to the open grasslands along the Coastline. With a short side trip out to the Figure of Eight Pools, this walk becomes a great day in the bush. The views fro

Total climbing: 706m

Hard track

Garie Beach to Garawarra to Burning Palms Circuit

13.5 km Circuit, 7 hrs

Using a variety of tracks, this walk follows the coast as well as going inland to Garrawarra Farm. With great coastal views and a magnificent palm jungle, this walk demonstrates perfectly, the diversity of the Royal National Park. Of historical significance are the houses scattered along the coast t

Total climbing: 754m

Hard track

Bundeena to Little Marley Beach

14 km Return, 5 hrs

Exploring the coastline of the Royal National Park, this walk has fantastic views and a great place to wet the toes at Little Marley Beach. Bundeena is a great place to start the walk, with places to grab a bite to eat. You can also catch the ferry from Cronulla to Bundeena, an excellent way to star

Total climbing: 441m

Moderate track

The Coast Track (Otford to Bundeena)

27.4 km One way, 2 Days

Following the coast through the Royal National Park with its magnificent coastal views, this walk is truly amazing. Although walked traditionally from Bundeena, this direction makes for a shorter first day. There are coastal and cliff views along much of this walk. There are also a small house commu

Total climbing: 1244m

Hard track

Other Nearby walks

A list of walks that start near the The Coast Track walk.

Jibbon Loop Track

5.1 km Circuit, 1 hr 45 mins

This walk is an enjoyable way of exploring Jibbon Head and its beaches. From the township on Bundeena, walk through the streets and then along the beautiful Jibbon Beach. At the northern end of Jibbon Beach, a track leads through the bush to an Aboriginal engraving site, then to the point of Jibbo

Total climbing: 94m

Moderate track

Jibbon Head Engravings

2.6 km Return, 45 mins

On this walk, you will enjoy a stroll along Jibbon Beach and then head through the bush to the Jibbon Head Aboriginal engraving site. The site is a special and historic place, with some clear engravings and others more faded. The site is best viewed in the late afternoon sun, or after rain. Take

Total climbing: 35m

Moderate track

Cronulla to Botany Bay Discovery Centre

13.1 km One way, 4 hrs 30 mins

This coastal walk starts from Cronulla station and follows the beaches around to the Boat Harbour Aquatic reserve, then continues along the Cape Bailey walk, winding through thick heath and between hanging swamps. The walk finishes at the Botany Bay Discovery Centre. There is an alternate exit to th

Total climbing: 185m

Hard track

Deer Pools

3.8 km Return, 1 hr 30 mins

The walk down to Deer Pools takes you through the heath, which is common in Royal National Park. This bush opens out onto Deer Pool, a beautiful little cascade and pool of water. A lovely walk to one of the well known landmarks in the park.

Total climbing: 109m

Hard track

Winifred Falls

4.4 km One way, 2 hrs

Winifred Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Royal National Park. This walk not only goes to the magnificent falls but has the optional side trip down to the beautiful South West Arm Pools. Anice Falls are not as great as Winifred but worth the visit. The walk then continues through the heath to

Total climbing: 179m

Hard track

Gibraltar Rock

858 m Return, 20 mins

This short walk starts near the Willow Tree Picnic Area (near Audley). The walk follows a short section of the historic Lady Carrington Drive to a large sandstone overhang called Gibraltar Rock. At the base of the overhang is a rare sandstone cobble section of road. At Gibraltar Rock, there are also

Total climbing: 17m

Easy track

Jersey Spring

5 km Return, 1 hr 45 mins

Starting near the Willow Tree Picnic Area (near Audley), this walk follows the northern section of the historic Lady Carrington Drive to Jersey Spring. Past the sandstone overhang of Gibraltar Rock, this walk follows the old road and the Hacking River, enjoying the palms and tall gums along the way.

Total climbing: 118m

Easy track

Willow Tree to Calala

10.5 km Return, 4 hrs

On this walk you follow the historic Lady Carrington Drive from Willow tree picnic area to Calala before returning the same way. The walk passes two icons on the old road, Gibraltar Rock and Jersey Spring whilst crossing several small brooks. At Calala you will find a large clearing and natural sh

Total climbing: 282m

Moderate track

Robertson's Roundabout

2.3 km Circuit, 1 hr 15 mins

From the Royal National Park Centre, this walk crosses the Hacking River before rising steeply up onto the ridge to fantastic views of the Hacking River. If you look into the distance you can see Cronulla on the horizon at the highest points. Towards the end of the circuit, with good views of the su

Total climbing: 146m

Hard track

Audley to Gibraltar Rock

2.2 km Return, 45 mins

This walk starts at the historical and beautiful Audley picnic area and dance hall. Have a picnic or enjoy a coffee from the cafe, before wandering along the quiet public road alongside Hacking River. After heading around the locked gate, you walk along the old Lady Carrington Drive trail for about

Total climbing: 55m

Easy track

Mt Bass- Winifred Falls

6.7 km Return, 2 hrs 30 mins

This walk follows Mount Bass Fire Trail, then a bush track, to Winifred Falls. Be prepared to get your feet wet crossing upper Winifred Falls. The Winifred Falls are really nice, and can be complemented by the brilliant side trip down to to South West Arm pools. These pools are a great place for a

Total climbing: 213m

Hard track

Bungoona Path

918 m Return, 20 mins

This is a smooth and mostly flat walk with a fantastic lookout in the Royal National Park. The concrete path starts at the Area Office car park, passes a pleasant and usually quiet picnic area, then winds gently down through the bush. The path leads to the fenced Bungoona Lookout, where you can en

Total climbing: 30m