Royal National Park Coastal Walk — Attraction in Royal National Park

Royal National Park Coastal Walk – A World-Class Hike Just Outside Sydney

If you’re looking for a hike that truly has it all — dramatic ocean cliffs, secluded beaches, waterfalls, native wildlife, and sweeping views — the Royal National Park Coastal Walk is an absolute must-do.

Located just an hour from Sydney, this 26km trail offers one of the most scenic coastal walks in Australia. Whether you’re doing the full hike or just a section (like Bundeena to Wattamolla), every step delivers something memorable. Expect turquoise waters, sandstone cliffs, wildflowers in spring, and maybe even a pod of dolphins if you’re lucky!

What I love most is the variety: one minute you’re trekking through eucalyptus forest, and the next you’re standing on a clifftop watching waves crash below. Highlights like Wedding Cake Rock, Eagle Rock, Curracurrong Falls, and the many hidden beaches along the way make this a photographer’s dream.

Tips: • Start early, bring plenty of water, and wear sturdy shoes. • There are toilets and picnic spots at key points like Wattamolla and Garie Beach. • It’s well-marked and beginner-friendly, but the full trail is best spread over two days if you’re not a seasoned hiker.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this walk will remind you how incredibly diverse and beautiful the Australian coastline really is. It’s peaceful, inspiring, and perfect for reconnecting with nature.

Rating: 5/5 – One of the best hikes near Sydney. Highly recommended for all nature lovers and...

This walk is amazing. I recommend parking at Sutherland train station and catch the train to Otford and do the walk south to north, then catch the Bundeena ferry to Cronulla and Train back to Sutherland. You can easily do this in reverse order but finishing in Bundeena and Cronulla gives more options for food etc at the end of a long walk.

One thing to note. There is NO WATER available for the length of this walk which will take a good 6hrs so you’ll have to carry what you need. If there has been recent rain the creeks and streams can flow and offer perfectly clean water for drinking.

It can often be closed in places so check the national parks website for information.

https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/

https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/the-coast-track

This walk makes for a sensational day out but can be very crowded on weekends.

If you can’t do the whole thing go from Bundeena to Marley and Little Marley for a swim and return to Bundeena in easy time...

Royal National Park is a true natural gem in Australia! The vast landscapes offer a perfect blend of lush forests, serene beaches, and stunning coastal views. Whether you're hiking the scenic trails, picnicking by a peaceful waterfall, or simply taking in the diverse wildlife, this park is a haven for nature lovers. The walking paths are well-maintained, making it accessible for all levels of adventurers. A must-visit for anyone looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the beauty of the Australian...