Itinerary
Overview
Sydney’s rugged and spectacular coastal scenery is on show on this 26km hike through Royal National Park, the world’s second oldest national park on the city’s southern fringes.
Read more about Itinerary: The Coast track
You’ll walk from the village of Bundeena to Otford train station, winding past beaches and bays, across magnificent sandstone escarpments and through patches of coastal heath and rainforest.
The weathered coastline is a perfect grandstand, offering soaring views to Wollongong and beyond and ample chances to spot sea birds and migrating humpback whales in season. If it’s warm enough, you can cool off at rainforest-fringed beaches such as Little Marley, Wattamolla, Garie and Burning Palms.
The trail is also rich in history, from ancient Aboriginal engravings to heritage-listed shack communities. Do the walk in sections, or prepare your backpack for the entire two-day adventure, sleeping overnight at North Era campground.
Tips for walkers:
Take the train to Cronulla, then the ferry to Bundeena; gateway to Royal National Park and the 26km Coast track. Lace up your boots, hoist your pack and set out on the 18km first leg of the walk, from Bundeena to North Era. Along the way you'll see ancient rock engravings carved by the Dharawal People at Jibbon Headland. Cool off at Little Marley Beach, then continue to Wattamolla Beach and lunch by the lagoon. Spend the night at secluded North Era campground, but remember to book ahead. Allow 7hrs to walk this section of the track.
The Coast track in Sydney's Royal National Park is an epic multi-day walk between Bundeena and Otford. Enjoy incredible coastal lookouts, swimming spots, seasonal wildflowers and whale watching along this challenging 26km track.
The coastal Wattamolla picnic area at Royal National Park is a popular family spot for swimming, fishing, snorkelling and bushwalking.
A perfect day out, Garie Beach is a wonderful place to enjoy a picnic and is great for swimming, whale watching, fishing, surfing and walking options.
Go camping at North Era campground overlooking North Era Beach in Royal National Park. North Era's bush campsites are perfectly located for an overnight stop while walking the Coast Track.
Why not start the day with a refreshing swim before getting back on track for the final 8km, from South Era to Otford. Following the trail past the heritage shacks of South Era, you’ll leave the beach for a challenging climb through the tangled littoral rainforest of burning palms and palm jungle. Back atop the headlands, stop to savour the rugged coastline views before your triumphant hike to Otford train station. Allow 3hrs to walk this section of the track.
The Coast track in Sydney's Royal National Park is an epic multi-day walk between Bundeena and Otford. Enjoy incredible coastal lookouts, swimming spots, seasonal wildflowers and whale watching along this challenging 26km track.
A challenging yet spectacular walk, Palm Jungle loop track takes in rainforest, cliff tops, beaches and scenic coastal views in Royal National Park, near Otford.
