Exposed cliffs and unpatrolled beaches. Check track alerts before starting.

The Coast Track

26 km along the entire eastern coastline — Otford to Bundeena.

Last reviewed: 12 August 2026 — checked against NPWS / BeachSafe where applicable.

Check NPWS alerts →

Green Royal Coast Track fingerpost against blue sky and ocean waves, Royal National Park NSW — Royal Coast Track above the Pacific. Photo: Brett Darby Photography

Otford Lookout interpretive map of the Royal Coastal Walk at Royal National Park NSW, with ocean cliffs and track distances toward Bundeena — Otford Lookout map — southern trailheadPhoto: Brett Darby Photography

Wide view of coastal shacks on a green headland above the Pacific, southern Royal National Park NSW — Coastal shacks — southern Coast Track countryPhoto: Brett Darby Photography

Along the track

Shacks, junctions & headlands

Tap any photo for a larger view — southern coast character between Otford and Garie.

Close view of coastal shacks above surf and rocky shore, Royal National Park NSW — Shacks above the surf — Era / Bulgo country.Photo: Brett Darby Photography

Aerial-style view of green headland coastal shacks and ocean, Royal National Park NSW — Green headland aerial-style view of shack settlements.Photo: Brett Darby Photography

Royal Coastal Walk and Coast Track junction fingerpost in bush, Royal National Park NSW — Coast Track junction marker on the walk.Photo: Brett Darby Photography

At a glance

Australia's oldest coastal multi-day hike — conditions and camping rules change.

Distance

26 km one way — Otford to Bundeena

Duration

Traditionally 2 days; fit walkers can finish in 1 day

Difficulty

Medium to hard — cliffs, beaches, steep sections

Overnight

North Era decommissioned — day walk, Garie (NPWS), or stay outside

Overview

Traditionally a two-day hike with an overnight at North Era — fit walkers can finish in one day. North Era campground is decommissioned (no camping). Plan a day walk, check NPWS for Coast Track overnight options (e.g. Garie), or stay outside the park.

You can walk north-to-south (Bundeena → Otford) or the reverse. Starting at Otford gives a shorter first day; starting at Bundeena shortens day two. Shorter sections are possible from Garawarra, Wattamolla or Bundeena access points.

Nature along the track

Coastal heath between cliff and sea supports she-oak, grass trees, coast banksia, honey-myrtle, kangaroo grass and threatened cliff-top grasslands. Bring binoculars — sea eagles, osprey, honeyeaters, firetails and heathwrens are common on exposed ridges.

Humpback whales pass offshore May–October — winter day hikes are popular for whale watching without summer heat. Many school groups tackle the full track for Duke of Edinburgh expedition requirements.

Winter walking

Cooler temperatures for long days on the track
Whale watching May–October
Overnight lows 6–8°C if camping elsewhere

Summer walking

Harsh sun — no drinking water on track
Swimming at beaches along route — most unpatrolled
Start early; carry extra water

Preparation

What to carry and check before a multi-day coastal hike.

Sturdy shoes, full water and food, sun protection, layers

Tell someone your plans; consider a PLB

Map from Audley Visitor Centre

Park entry $12 per vehicle per day

Figure 8 Pools side trip near Burning Palms — low tide only

Guided experiences

NPWS guided tours North Era closure — NPWS Stays near Otford

Related guides

Unofficial guide — always verify conditions with NSW National Parks and BeachSafe before visiting.