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Wattamolla picnic area

Royal National Park

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Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about the Wattamolla picnic area.

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    Wattamolla picnic area is in the eastern precinct of Royal National Park. To get there:

    From Audley:

    • Drive across Audley Weir and continue along Sir Bertram Stevens Drive for approximately 11km
    • Turn left onto Wattamolla Road, 250m past Bundeena Drive, and follow to Wattamolla picnic area.

    From Waterfall:

    • Follow McKell Avenue to the end
    • Turn left onto Sir Bertram Stevens Drive and continue for approximately 9km
    • Turn right onto Wattamolla Road and follow to Wattamolla picnic area

     

    Follow @royalnpalerts on Twitter for regular, real-time updates about traffic and parking capacity.

    Road quality

    • Sealed roads

    Vehicle access

    • 2WD vehicles

    Weather restrictions

    • All weather

    Parking

    • Parking is available but it can get very busy on the weekend, when parking might be limited.
    • Think about car pooling to Wattamolla because the number of people visiting often exceeds the parking spaces available.

    Best times to visit

    Spring

    Plan a visit during spring to admire the stunning heathland wildflowers on display. Head along parts of the Coast track to see them in bloom. 

    Summer

    You'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to water activities at Wattamolla. Float around in the majestic lagoon, perfect for small children, or cool off at the beach. Just remember to be safe because there's no lifeguard service at Wattamolla. It's an extremely popular location so plan to arrive early in the day as parking is limited and the car park often fills up before midday on a hot weekend.

    Winter

    Winter is a great time to visit Wattamolla as it's a lot quieter than it is during the busy summer months. Not only will you be greeted by spectacular coastal scenery, you can also see whales from the cliffs or the lookout between June and August.

    Facilities

    You'll need to bring your own water for drinking and cooking.


    Toilets

    • Flush toilets

    Picnic tables

    Barbecue facilities

    • Gas/electric barbecues (free)

    Carpark

    Maps and downloads

    Safety messages

    Beach safety

    Beaches in this park are not patrolled, and can sometimes have strong rips and currents. These beach safety tips will help you and your family stay safe in the water.

    Fishing safety

    Fishing from a boat, the beach or by the river is a popular activity for many national park visitors. If you’re planning a day out fishing, check out these fishing safety tips.

    Mobile safety

    Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

    Water activities

    Beaches, rivers and lakes in NSW national parks offer lots of opportunities for water activities. Please take care in the water and find out how to help your family and friends stay safe around water.

    For your own safety, please don't jump from the top of the waterfall into the lagoon. Jumping from the waterfall is prohibited. Please read our waterfall safety tips.

    Permitted

    Fishing

    A current NSW recreational fishing licence is required when fishing in all waters.

    Prohibited

    Pets

    Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

    Smoking

    NSW national parks are no smoking areas.

    Wattamolla picnic area

    Operated by

    Park info

    • in Royal National Park in the Sydney and surrounds and South Coast regions

    • Royal National Park is open 7am to 8.30pm but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

    • Park entry fees:

      $12 per vehicle per day. Payment options include Audley Visitor Centre, vehicle entry stations, pay machines and the Park’nPay app.

      Vehicles over 8 seats: $4.40 per adult, $2.20 per child (per day). Students on educational programs: $1.10 per student. Teachers/educational supervisors: free (1 adult per 10 students).

      Buy annual pass

    Visitor centre