The 10 Coolest Royal National Park Walks in 2025

The Royal National Park in Sydney is one of the best national parks in Australia… disagree? No? Good. Whether you’re a hiking novice or more advanced, there’s something for everyone within the 150km² Royal National Park.

We acknowledge the Dharawal people, the Traditional Custodians of the Country on which these adventures take place who have occupied and cared for these lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Ready to explore some of the best walks near Sydney? The Royal National Park is your go-to with some of the coolest walking tracks in NSW (and Australia).

Fun fact: The Royal National Park was created in 1879, and it’s Australia’s oldest national park. It’s also the third oldest national park in the world. Mind = blown.

Whether you’re tackling the popular Coast Track, with its stunning ocean views and secluded beaches along the way, or hiking to the picture-perfect Wedding Cake Rock, everywhere you turn offers a breathtaking vista.

The best part is that the Royal National Park is packed with many hiking trails and options for everyone – whether you’re after a chill meander through the Aussie bush or looking to tackle a longer, more challenging hike across a couple of days. Alright, let’s lace up our hiking boots and get into it!

I’ve listed the best Royal National Park walks by length, starting with the longest, because that’s how we all pick our hikes, right?

Note: Closures regularly affect areas in this park and are constantly changing. Check the NPWS website for the most up to date alerts.

Best Royal National Park Walks

1. Royal National Park Coast Track: South to North

Distance: 26km
Duration: 2 days
Difficulty: Advanced

Note: Sections of this walk are regularly closed for track upgrades, pest management, or due to dangerous erosion and rockfall thanks to all the rain. Always check with the NPWS website before you plan your walk for the most up to date information on what is open.

In my humble opinion, this is the best walk in the Royal National Park. This 26km coastal track can be completed south to north or vice versa. The best way to do it will depend on where you live, but I think finishing in Bundeena (and starting from Otford station) is the best way.

You can tackle the hike in one day if you’ve got the stamina, but it’s such a gorgeous hike with so many secluded and beautiful beaches to stop at along the way, I’d recommend taking your time and doing it over two days. Pitch your tent at North Era Campground, and if you go mid-week, you’ll likely have the site all to yourself! Just make sure you book ahead.

Photo by James Tugwell

The hike itself is graded as a 5, so it’s definitely considered challenging. There are a few steep sections and lots of steps along the route. However, I think almost anyone can do this hike with the right attitude. Mind over matter, eh?

And the views? Man … the views. The hike hugs the beautiful coastline most of the way, but you’ll dip in and out of dense bushland along the route too. Keep an eye out for wildlife like wallabies and, if you’re lucky, migrating Humpback whales (June to August and September to November).

@travelmademedoit_

2. Uloola Walking Track

Distance: 11.3km
Duration: 4.5 hours
Difficulty: Intermediate

The Uloola Track is so stunning you won’t believe you’re just an hour away from the city. It’s a decent 11km track you can complete in just under five hours (depending on how often you stop to marvel at the flora and fauna, which, by the way, is an absolute highlight).

Uloola Track is particularly gorgeous in spring with the heathlands bursting with wildflowers. Keep your eyes peeled for the Gymea lily – it’s hard to miss though with its huge red flower reaching for the sky in the warmer months.

Oh, and if you’re into birdwatching, look out for the Rockwarbler’s unique hanging nest under the sandstone ledges.

You can pretty easily complete this hike in a day, but if you’re looking to make a night of it, I’d recommend Uloola Falls Campground – it’s the perfect spot to pitch a tent. From there, you can either loop back to Heathcote via the Karloo Track (make sure you stop in for a dip at Karloo Pool or one of the other many swimming hole spots) or push on towards Audley (a good place to park your car).

3. Bundeena to Big Marley & Little Marley Beach

Distance: 11km
Duration: 3.5 hours
Difficulty: Intermediate

This trail is a fantastic way to experience the Royal National Park’s stunning coastline. The trail entry point kicks off from the car park at the end of Beachcomber Ave in Bundeena and takes you past Jibbon Hill and down to the secluded Big Marley Beach and Little Marley Beach.

It’s an easy trail to navigate (just follow the markers), and while you might need to be a bit careful with your footing here and there, the path is mostly smooth sailing. As you stroll along the clifftop Coast Track, you’ll get unbeatable views of the iconic Wedding Cake Rock.

The best part of this walk is the end when you hit either Big Marley or Little Marley Beaches. Both of these beaches are only accessible by walking, and you’ll often find you’re one of the only souls there. So, don’t forget to pack ya cossies!

Read more: Marley Beach – How to Find These Rolling Sand Dunes Close to Sydney

@franmagiera

4. Curra Moors Loop Track

Distance: 10km
Duration: 5 hours
Difficulty: Beginner-Intermediate

Looking for a walk that’ll give you a good workout and clear your head? The Curra Moors Loop in the Royal National Park is just that. This trail is a beautiful blend of natural bushland and stunning seaside views, with dramatic cliffs that’ll have you reaching for your camera again and again.

The path takes you through forests of Scribbly gums and angophoras, opening up to heathland that’s truly spectacular. For those who love birdwatching, keep an eye out for the Lewin’s honeyeater and the Eastern spinebill – they love the nectar around here. And if you come in spring, the wildflowers, especially the hakeas, are simply stunning.

A good place to stop along the way is Curracurrong Waterfall which looks insane after some rain. Plus, if you’re hiking during whale watching season, make sure you keep your eyes peeled as you follow the Coast Track south to Garie North Head.

Read more: 9 Epic Whale Watching Spots Near Sydney

5. Palm Jungle Loop

Distance: 10km
Time: 5 hours
Difficulty: Intermediate-Advanced

The Palm Jungle Loop Track is one of the more popular Royal National Park walks, but for good reason. You’ll hike through lush rainforest and along cliff tops with scenic coastal views, as well as some of the most pristine beaches you’ve ever seen. It’s an excellent walk for hikers who love adventure and experiencing the best of our national park.

Starting at Garawarra Farm, the trail takes you through big gum forests and lovely angophoras. As you go down the first steep hill to Burgh Ridge, make sure to stop and take in the stunning views of the coast. When you hit the Coast Track, a right turn will lead you past old beach shacks all the way to Burning Palms Beach – a perfect place for a swim or to enjoy a picnic.

@travelmademedoit_

The path then snakes through a dense palm jungle, ending up at Werrong Lookout, where the views are simply breathtaking. At the fork in the road, you can either turn right to head back to your car through cool, shaded woodlands or go left to explore a bit more towards Otford.

Just a quick heads up: Part of the Palm Jungle Loop Track between Burning Palms and Werrong Lookout is closed for upgrades until December 2024. You can still explore this area by taking a detour through Garawarra Farm and Burgh Ridge Trail, and the Figure 8 Pools are accessible from Burning Palms Beach.

6. Karloo Pools Track

Distance: 10km
Duration: 4 hours
Difficulty: Intermediate

Starting from Heathcote Station, the Karloo Pools Track is a beautiful hike that’ll suit most hiking levels. The track takes you through dense heathland and past Karloo Pool, which is a great spot for swimming and picnics, so make sure to pack your swimmers.

Keep an eye out for the ‘whaleback’ rock formations en route, which as the name suggests, look a bit like whales! Another highlight along the way is the Uloola Turrets, a group of interesting-looking rock outcrops.

If you’re thinking about camping overnight, Uloola Falls Campground is close to the end of Uloola Track. But remember to book online ahead of time as it can book out quickly. If you’re heading home, you can follow the track back the way you came or continue on the Uloola Track to Waterfall Station for a different route.

@damontually

7. Wattamolla to Eagle Rock

Distance: 9km
Duration: 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Intermediate

Another personal favourite of mine is the Wattamolla to the Eagle Rock lookout walk. This Royal National Parl walk is part of the larger Coast Track that stretches from Otford to Bundeena and is a popular walking track thanks to its scenic beauty and relatively easy access – including a mixture of boardwalk and natural terrain.

Starting at the Wattamolla car park, the trail heads towards Providential Point, a secluded beach offering a fantastic spot for whale watching during the season and panoramic ocean views. The track then continues to the iconic Eagle Rock, a unique formation that resembles an eagle’s beak, and Curracurrong Falls, one of the few waterfalls that flow directly into the ocean, creating a seriously spectacular sight, especially after some heavy rainfall.

Photo by @domforty

8. Wedding Cake Rock Walk

Distance: 7km
Duration: 2 hours
Difficulty: Intermediate

Wedding Cake Rock Walk is a bit of a tourist hot spot, I won’t lie. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t check it out! It’s a super stunning rock formation, with its bright white colour contrasting sharply with the sandstone cliffs around it.

However (and this is a big, however), the cliff top is not stable, so there’s a safety fence around it that you cannot cross. This doesn’t stop people from crossing it, but for your safety and to preserve the integrity of this beautiful formation, do not cross the fence, ok?

The walk to Wedding Cake Rock is also super fun. It’s a bit challenging at times, dipping in and out of steep and rocky sections of path, but you’re rewarded with amazing views of the coast and ocean. Plus, if you go at the right time of year, you might see wildflowers, wallabies, and birds along the way.

After reaching Wedding Cake Rock, you can either head back to Bundeena the same way you came or keep going and explore more of the park, like Marley Beach.

9. Figure 8 Pools

Distance: 6.1km
Duration: 2 hours
Difficulty: Intermediate-Advanced

If you haven’t seen one of the million Insta reels of Figure 8 Pools, you’re obviously not on social media enough (and good for you, tbh). This section of the Royal National Park near Burning Palms Beach is an absolute icon and the foot traffic proves it. I suggest visiting either in the cooler months or mid-week to avoid the crazy crowds.

More importantly, you must plan your trip and I mean really plan – check times, tides, surf reports, the whole shebang. The Figure 8 Pools are located on a dangerous rock shelf and injuries are not uncommon if you’re not prepared. Here are some tips:

• Arrive before midday (you don’t want to be navigating the steep rocky path back up in the dark)
• Check the weather and tide. The ocean here can be unpredictable. Waves can suddenly crash over the rock shelf, even when it seems calm
• Always visit at low tide (you can check the forecast online before you go)
• And always, keep a respectful distance from the ocean. Take some time to observe the wave patterns before getting too close to the pools

and, at the risk of nagging, it’s also best to not swim in the pools. Years of people jumping in and out has really hurt the biodiversity in the pools.

With all that in mind, this truly is a spectacular walking track and section of the Royal National Park. The 6km return hike is challenging with lots of steep paths and steps, but it’s super beautiful, especially once you reach the pools.

You’ll start from the Garawarra Farm car park off Garie Rd. Follow the track down to the Coast Track, head to Burning Palms Beach, and then south to the pools. Remember, the return is the same way you came!

10. Forest Path Walk

Distance: 4.4km
Duration: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Beginner

The Forest Path is a great walk in the Royal National Park that’s easy enough for just about everyone. It kicks off from the old stone gates on Sir Bertram Stevens Drive. This loop is really doable even for families with kiddies.

This trail wraps around Forest Island, a very cool spot worth checking out that’s surrounded by beautiful rivers and creeks. As you wander along, you’ll find yourself walking under huge eucalyptus trees, past groups of Cabbage Tree palms, and might even see some Gymea lilies if it’s winter.

Feeling like walking a bit further? The path connects with the Couranga Walking Track for a longer adventure, which is another great track to explore.

@pearce_m

Planning Your Visit to the Sydney Royal National Park

About 30km south of the city, the Royal National Park is super easy to get to – whether you have your own transport or are getting public transport.

How to Get to the Royal National Park

By Car

The Royal National Park is approximately 30km south of Sydney CBD. Depending on your starting point, the drive can take around an hour. 

By Train

The most common route involves catching a train from Central Station to Cronulla train station, followed by a ferry ride to Bundeena, which is one of the main entry points to the park. It’s such a fun way to get to the Royal National Park! Another option is to take a train to Waterfall train station, which is on the southern edge of the park. Both these train stations are easily accessible via the Sydney Trains network, making them convenient options for public transport users.

By Bus

There are also bus and shuttle bus services that can take you closer to or directly into some areas of the park. For example, buses run from Sutherland Station to various points along the park’s boundary. It’s a good idea to check the Transport NSW website for the latest schedules and routes, as these can quickly change.

Royal National Park Fees

There’s a small cost involved in bringing your vehicle into the park but it helps pay for the upkeep and maintenance of the Royal National Park.

Park entry fees:

• All Day Pass – $12 per vehicle
• Single Yearly RNP Pass – $22 per vehicle
• All Parks Pass –$190 a year (or $65 without Kosciuszko)

If you’re entering on foot or by bike, there’s no fee.

Gate Opening Hours

The park is open from sunrise to sunset. However, specific gate opening times can vary throughout the year, so it’s a good idea to check the Royal National Park website before you go. Remember, some areas within the park may have different opening hours, and times can be subject to change due to weather conditions or park maintenance.

Facilities

The park is equipped with picnic areas, toilets, and visitor centres where you can snag a map or get advice from park rangers. Don’t forget to pack your own food, water, sun protection, and a sturdy pair of hiking shoes. And of course, remember to leave no trace.

Why walk in the Royal National Park?

Why not walk in the Royal National Park? It’s a hop, skip, and jump away from Sydney and an absolute playground for hikers, bikers, surfers… anyone who loves adventure. The Royal National Park is an absolute gem and the perfect day trip spot. While its popular walking trails and beaches can get crowded at times (especially on the weekends), with a bit of exploration off the beaten path, you can easily find a slice of paradise where it feels like you have the whole park to yourself.

What else can you do in the Royal National Park?

If you’re looking for a bit of variety in your visit to the Royal National Park, you’ve got plenty of choices beyond just hiking:

• Kayaking: Hit the water for a peaceful paddle on the Hacking River. It’s a lovely way to see the park from a new angle
• Cycling: Bring your bike or rent one to explore the park’s paths. There’s something for everyone, from easy rides that let you soak in the scenery to more challenging tracks that’ll get your heart pumping
• Trail Running: If you love running, the park’s trails offer a beautiful backdrop for your workout. There are routes to suit all levels, so you can take it as easy or as hard as you like

@tim_ashelford

• Swimming: The park’s calm bays and secluded beach spots are perfect for a swim. Places like Wattamolla Beach, Jibbon Beach, and Werrong Beach are great options. Remember to swim in designated areas and keep an eye on the conditions – not all swimming spots are manned by lifeguards
• Surfing: For those who love surfing, Garie Beach is a popular spot within the park known for its pumping waves

@mattwisemanmedia

Royal National Park Walks FAQs

What is the easy track at Royal National Park?

One of the easiest tracks in the Royal National Park is the 4km Forest Path. It’s a gentle walk that takes you through lush greenery and is perfect for an easy stroll – super family-friendly.

How long is the walk to Wedding Cake Rock?

The walk to Wedding Cake Rock (part of the Coast Track) is about 6-7km return, depending on where you start. In terms of time, allow for about 2-3 hours return.

Is Royal National Park free?

Visiting the Royal National Park isn’t completely free, as there’s a small entry fee for vehicles. If you’re driving in, you’ll need to pay a daily fee per vehicle ($12 per vehicle, per day). You can also get a single park yearly pass for $22. However, if you’re entering the park on foot or by bike, you don’t need to pay this fee. The entry fee helps with the maintenance and conservation of the park, ensuring it remains a beautiful place for everyone to enjoy.

Are dogs allowed in the Royal National Park?

No, dogs are not allowed anywhere in the Royal National Park. This is to preserve our precious flora and fauna, so please leave Fido at home. If you’re after dog friendly bush walks in Sydney, check out our huge list of options.

More Walks Near Sydney

• Best Bushwalks Sydney
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• Overnight Hikes Near Sydney

Feature image by @franmagiera