Exposed cliffs and steep terrain. Check track alerts and weather before starting.
NPWS alerts →Palm Jungle Loop
A demanding loop through subtropical palm forest and exposed coastal cliffs south of Burning Palms — for experienced bushwalkers only.
- Grade 4
- 10 km loop
- 4–6 hrs
At a glance
Grade, distance and time — check NPWS alerts before you leave.
Grade 4
10 km loop
4–6 hrs
Planning your visit
Southern coast — typically approached from Garawarra Farm / Burning Palms area. Check Wild Walks PDF for current carpark and loop direction.
Cooler months reduce heat in palm gullies. Avoid after heavy rain — steep sections become slippery.
Burning Palms Beach, Coast Track, and Figure 8 Pools (separate trip).
Overview
Palm Jungle Loop is one of the more challenging day walks in Royal National Park — tougher than the nearby Curra Moors Loop on similar distance. The route passes through dense palm rainforest, steep scrambles and cliff-top sections with views along the southern coastline.
Allow a full day and do not underestimate the terrain — some sections are steep, slippery after rain, and exposed to wind.
Terrain & highlights
- Cabbage-tree palms and rainforest gullies
- Coastal cliff lookouts toward Burning Palms and beyond
- Links to the broader Coast Track network for multi-day hikers
- Remote feel — mobile reception is patchy
Safety
Cliff edges are unfenced. Keep well back in windy conditions. Tell someone your route and expected return time.
This walk is separate from the Figure 8 Pools side trip — if combining coastal sections, check tides and swell separately.
— checked against NPWS / BeachSafe where applicable.
Check NPWS alerts →Always check NPWS track alerts before you go. Printable maps on Wild Walks.
What next?
Related guides
Unofficial guide — always verify conditions withNSW National ParksandBeachSafebefore visiting.