Royal National Park Sydney
Australia's second-oldest national park, offering dramatic coastal cliffs, unique rock pools, and lush forest trails just south of Sydney.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Safest access to Figure 8 Pools
Royal National Park Sydney
Best Time
Safest access to Figure 8 Pools
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Australia's second-oldest national park, offering dramatic coastal cliffs, unique rock pools, and lush forest trails just south of Sydney.
"A stunning natural escape with breathtaking coastal walks and unique geological wonders."
🌊 Check Tide Times for Pools
Always check tide charts before visiting Figure 8 Pools for safety and access.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The coastal tracks can be rugged; good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Figure 8 Pools
Near Burning Palms Beach
Unique rock formations creating natural pools, best at low tide. A must-see coastal gem.
Wattamolla Creek Falls
Wattamolla
Stunning waterfall cascading directly into the ocean. Perfect for a scenic picnic.
Eagle Rock & Curracurrong Falls
Coastal Track
Dramatic coastal views and a beautiful waterfall. A rewarding hike with ocean vistas.
The Coast Track
Bundeena to Otford
Iconic trail offering breathtaking ocean cliffs, hidden beaches, and diverse landscapes.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Figure 8 Pools
Park Entry Fees & Transport
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Check Tide Times for Pools
Always check tide charts before visiting Figure 8 Pools for safety and access.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The coastal tracks can be rugged; good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
There's a day-use fee for parking, so factor this into your budget.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially on longer hikes, stay hydrated. Some trails have limited facilities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Check Tide Times for Pools
Always check tide charts before visiting Figure 8 Pools for safety and access.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The coastal tracks can be rugged; good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
There's a day-use fee for parking, so factor this into your budget.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially on longer hikes, stay hydrated. Some trails have limited facilities.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Mobile reception can be spotty, so offline maps are a lifesaver for navigation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Royal National Park's stunning coastal scenery, unique rock formations like Figure 8 Pools, and diverse hiking trails. Many appreciate its proximity to Sydney for day trips. However, some find it can get very crowded, especially on weekends, and advise careful planning for tide times and potential track closures.
"Absolutely stunning! The Royal National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. From the dramatic coastal cliffs and pristine beaches to lush rainforests and scenic walking trails, every corner of this park offers something breathtaking. Easy access from Sydney makes it perfect for a day trip or a weekend escape. Well-maintained tracks, diverse wildlife, and incredible views."
Hugh Roberts
"The Royal National Park is a true gem! From breathtaking coastal views to lush bushwalks and serene picnic spots, this place has something for everyone. We spent the day hiking along the Coast Track and were blown away by the dramatic cliffs, ocean breezes, and secluded beaches.
The walking trails are well-marked and suitable for various fitness levels. There’s also plenty of wildlife—saw some beautiful birds and even a goanna! Parking was easy, and the facilities were clean and well maintained.
Highly recommend this park for anyone wanting to reconnect with nature or just enjoy a peaceful day outdoors. Don’t forget your camera—every turn is a postcard!
⸻
Let me know if you want to mention a specific activity, trail, or part of the park you enjoyed"
Fer Cabral
"Gorgeous Hike through the ‘Uloola Trail’ down to the waterfall. It was a bit long but gorgeous!! Fairly flat trail yet so lovely."
tamm ooof
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive from Sydney, which takes about an hour. Alternatively, take a train from Sydney Central to Bundeena or Otford stations. Buses are also available to access various points within the park.
Yes, trains run to Bundeena and Otford, and some bus routes service the park. This is a great option to avoid parking fees and stress.
You can drive to the Burning Palms Beach car park, but it's a walk from there to the pools. Parking can fill up quickly on busy days.
Yes, the park is accessible by car, with several entry points and parking areas. Be aware of potential parking fees.
Wattamolla is accessible by car. It's a popular spot, so arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a day-use parking fee for vehicles entering the park. Some Redditors mention it's free, but this typically refers to the absence of an entrance fee, not parking.
No, tickets are not required for entry. However, you will need to pay a day-use parking fee if you are driving.
The park is generally open 24/7, but specific facilities like visitor centers or campgrounds may have set hours. Always check the official NSW National Parks website for the latest information.
Parts of the Coast Track have experienced closures in the past, particularly around Little Garie. It's crucial to check the NSW National Parks website for current track conditions before your visit.
Figure 8 Pools can be dangerous during high tide or rough seas. Always check tide times and conditions, and never swim if the waves are high.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Coast Track (Bundeena to Otford) is highly recommended for its stunning views. Other popular options include the walk to Marley Beach, Eagle Rock, and the Forest Way Track for a more shaded experience. +1
The full Coast Track from Bundeena to Otford is approximately 26km. It can be done in sections or as a challenging day hike for fit individuals.
Yes, the Forest Way Track is a relatively easy 4.4km loop through lush forest, perfect for a shorter outing.
You might spot various bird species, lizards, and potentially wallabies or kangaroos. Keep an eye out during your walks!
Yes, there are several beautiful beaches like Burning Palms and Era Beach where you can swim. Wattamolla also has a lagoon suitable for swimming.
📸 📸 Photography
Figure 8 Pools, Wattamolla Creek Falls, Eagle Rock, and the dramatic cliff faces along the Coast Track are all incredibly photogenic.
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) offers beautiful light for coastal shots. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant blues of the water.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A polarizing filter can help with reflections in the pools and enhance sky colors.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the latest regulations with NSW National Parks before flying.
Capture the unique shapes of the pools and the surrounding rocks. Experiment with different angles and consider the tide for the best effect.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Wattamolla is another excellent spot, with a calm lagoon perfect for younger children to paddle in, and the waterfall provides a fun natural spectacle. When planning your visit, consider bringing plenty of snacks and water, as facilities can be spread out. Shorter walks to beaches like Era Beach are also good options for families looking for a relaxed day by the sea.
🚶 Hikers and Adventurers
If you're aiming for the Figure 8 Pools, meticulous planning around low tide is essential for both safety and the best experience.
📸 Photographers
For sweeping vistas, the Coast Track offers endless opportunities for dramatic landscape shots.
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the cliffs and beaches. The inland trails, like the Forest Way Track, offer opportunities for intimate forest photography with beautiful light filtering through the trees. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Iconic Coast Track
Many visitors opt to walk sections of the track, with popular starting points including Bundeena and Wattamolla. Redditors often discuss the feasibility of completing the entire track in a single day, with many deeming it achievable for fit hikers, though it's a significant undertaking.
For those looking for shorter coastal experiences, walks to Eagle Rock and Curracurrong Falls offer spectacular views without the commitment of the full track.
These shorter hikes still provide a fantastic taste of the park's stunning natural beauty. The Magic of Figure 8 Pools
Many travelers emphasize the importance of checking tide times before heading out. High tide can make the pools dangerous and inaccessible, and the walk to them can be slippery.
When conditions are right, the Figure 8 Pools offer a truly memorable experience, allowing you to get up close with the raw power of the ocean and the intricate beauty of nature's sculpting.
Forest Trails and Waterfalls
This trail is relatively flat and easy, making it suitable for families and those seeking a gentler walk. Wattamolla Creek Falls is another highlight, where a waterfall cascades directly into the ocean, creating a unique and picturesque scene.
It's a fantastic spot for a picnic and a refreshing dip. Other waterfalls like Winnifred Falls are also accessible within the park. For those interested in a longer inland hike, the walk to Karloo Pool is a well-regarded option, offering a beautiful bushland experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit