Serious safety risk — injuries happen here regularly. Only visit at low tide with calm surf.
Check NPWS wave forecast →
Figure 8 Pools, Royal National Park
A naturally eroded rock formation on the exposed coastline — spectacular, remote, and dangerous if conditions are wrong.
The pools sit on an exposed rock shelf south of Burning Palms Beach. Social media drove visitor numbers — many hike without checking tides or swell.Do not treat this like a casual beach day.
— checked against NPWS / BeachSafe where applicable.
Check NPWS alerts →At a glance
Quick numbers before you commit — conditions matter more than fitness.
~6 km return from Garawarra Farm carpark
~2 hours each way on steep coastal track
Low tide with calm, flat surf only — check NPWS forecast first
None on track or at the pools — bring everything you need
NPWS essentials
Official rules and practical realities for this walk.
Before midday — allow time for the walk and your tide window
Steep track — no prams
Day trip from Garawarra, not part of the full coastal hike
Share your plans and expected return time before you leave
Mobile coverage is limited — call 000 in an emergency
$12 per vehicle per day · gates lock at 8:30 pm
When is it safe?
- Only at low tide with calm, flat surf per NPWS
- Check the wave risk forecast before leaving home
- Watch the ocean for several minutes before stepping onto the rock shelf
- Never turn your back on the ocean
- Backup plan: Wattamolla or Audley on risky days
How to get there
Separate day walk from Garawarra — not a Coast Track through-hike.
- Park at Garawarra Farm carpark
- Steep track down to the Coast Track → Burning Palms → rock shelf to the south
- ~6 km return, ~2 hrs each way — allow buffer for tide and photography
Park hours 7:00 am – 8:30 pm; gates lock at 8:30 pm.
What to bring
2+ litres of water, snacks, hat and sunscreen
Closed-toe shoes with grip on wet rock
Charged phone and basic first-aid kit
Emergency Plus app for offline location sharing
Guided experiences
NPWS-listed tours with safety briefings — useful if you are unsure about tides or track conditions.
Staying nearby?
Related guides
Unofficial guide — always verify conditions withNSW National ParksandBeachSafebefore visiting.