Royal National ParkUnofficial Guide
Park entrance
Coast track

Full day: Coast highlights (Garie or Coast Track section)

Pick Garie for surf and SLSC patrols in season, or a Coast Track section if you want cliffs and heath. Always carry water and check gates.

Best for: Walkers comfortable on uneven tracks; not ideal in extreme heat

— checked against NPWS / BeachSafe where applicable.

Check NPWS alerts →
  1. Choose your focus

    Garie Beach for swimming/surfing with facilities (patrols seasonal), or a marked Coast Track section (Otford or Bundeena ends) if you want walking. Do not invent a “loop the whole coast” first day.

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  2. Pack for exposure

    2+ litres water minimum, sun protection, closed-toe shoes, offline map, snacks. Heath and cliff tops have little shade. Tell someone your route and ETA.

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  3. Figure 8 only if conditions allow

    Do not force Figure 8 Pools onto a tired full day. Low tide and calm, flat surf only — read the safety guide or book a suitable guided option from Tours. Backup: Wattamolla or Audley.

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  4. Exit before gates lock

    Gates lock in the evening (confirm on NPWS). Turn around with time for the walk out plus traffic. Headlamp if there is any chance of a late finish.

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Pack notes

  • Extra water and electrolytes in summer
  • Layers for wind on exposed cliff sections
  • Headlamp and charged phone
  • Printed or offline map for Coast Track segments

If things go wrong

  • Heat or fire danger high → cancel or switch to Audley / short shaded walk
  • Injury or fatigue → reverse early; do not push to Figure 8
  • Gates worry → start earlier or choose a shorter segment

Related guides

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