Royal National Park, New South Wales: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Royal National Park is the world’s second-oldest national park, established in 1879, just seven years after Yellowstone? This stunning 15,091-hectare wilderness, affectionately called “the Nasho” by locals, sits just an hour south of Sydney’s bustling CBD, offering a perfect escape into nature without traveling far from the city.

With its diverse landscapes spanning rugged coastal cliffs, secluded beaches, eucalyptus forests, and hidden waterfalls, Royal National Park offers something for every nature lover. Whether you’re planning a day trip from Sydney or a multi-day adventure, this guide will help you discover the best Royal National Park things to do for an unforgettable experience in Australia’s natural wonderland.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Royal National Park is conveniently located about 32km south of Sydney’s CBD, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.

By Car

The most convenient way to explore Royal National Park is by car, giving you the freedom to visit multiple locations in one day. From Sydney, take the Princes Highway south and follow signs to Royal National Park. There are several entry points, with the main entrances at Loftus, Waterfall, and Otford.

By Public Transport

If you don’t have a car, public transport is a viable option:

• Take a train on the T4 Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra Line to Cronulla, then a ferry to Bundeena (for the northern section of the park)
• Take a train to Loftus, Engadine, Heathcote, Waterfall, or Otford stations (all border the park)
• From these stations, you can access various walking tracks and attractions

Park Entry Fees

There is a $12 per vehicle per day entry fee to Royal National Park. You can pay this at entry stations or at ticket machines in various parking lots. If you plan to visit multiple times, consider purchasing an annual NSW National Parks pass for $190, which gives you unlimited access to all parks in New South Wales.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Royal National Park is a year-round destination, but each season offers a different experience:

Spring (September-November)

An ideal time to visit as wildflowers bloom throughout the park and temperatures are mild (15-22°C). Perfect for hiking and photography with fewer crowds than summer.

Summer (December-February)

The most popular time to visit, with warm temperatures (20-28°C) perfect for swimming at the beaches and freshwater pools. Be aware that weekends can get very crowded, especially at popular spots like Wattamolla Beach and Figure 8 Pools.

Autumn (March-May)

Offers pleasant hiking conditions with cooler temperatures (14-22°C) and fewer crowds. The ocean remains warm enough for swimming well into April.

Winter (June-August)

The quietest time to visit with cooler temperatures (8-17°C). While swimming might be too cold for most, it’s perfect for peaceful hikes and whale watching from the coastal tracks (June-July is peak whale migration season).

Getting Around Locally

Once inside Royal National Park, you’ll need to know how to navigate between the various attractions:

By Car

The park has well-maintained roads connecting major attractions. Sir Bertram Stevens Drive and Lady Wakehurst Drive are the main roads through the park. Most popular destinations have designated parking areas, though these can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.

Walking & Hiking

Many of the park’s best attractions are accessible only by walking tracks. Trails range from easy 15-minute walks to challenging full-day hikes. The Coast Track, spanning 27km from Bundeena to Otford, is the park’s signature multi-day hike.

Guided Tours

If you prefer a structured experience or want to learn more about the park’s ecology and history, guided tours are available. These range from general sightseeing to specialized activities like bird watching or photography.

Where to Stay

While many visitors experience Royal National Park as a day trip from Sydney, staying overnight allows you to explore more thoroughly and experience the park’s magic at sunrise and sunset.

Camping Options

Royal National Park offers several camping options:

• North Era Campground – A beautiful beachside camping area accessible only by hiking. Bookings essential.
• Bonnie Vale Campground – Located near Bundeena with facilities including showers and toilets. Suitable for families and less experienced campers.

Nearby Accommodations

If camping isn’t your style, consider staying in one of the towns bordering the park:

• Bundeena – A charming village with holiday rentals, B&Bs, and a YHA hostel
• Stanwell Park – Offers various accommodations with beautiful views
• Helensburgh – A convenient base with more affordable options

Dining & Local Cuisine

Food options within Royal National Park are limited, so it’s best to plan ahead:

Within the Park

• Audley Dance Hall Café – Located in the historic Audley precinct, offering breakfast, lunch, and coffee
• Waterfall Café – A small café near the Waterfall entrance with basic refreshments

Nearby Options

• Bundeena – Several cafés including Driftwood Café and Passionfruit Café
• Stanwell Park – Offers beachside dining options
• Helensburgh – Various restaurants and takeaway options

Top Attractions & Activities in Royal National Park

Royal National Park offers a diverse range of attractions that showcase Australia’s stunning natural beauty. Here are the must-see highlights:

1. The Coast Track

The jewel in Royal National Park’s crown, this 27km coastal walk from Bundeena to Otford offers breathtaking ocean views, secluded beaches, and diverse ecosystems. While the full track takes 2 days for most hikers, you can enjoy sections as day walks:

• Bundeena to Wedding Cake Rock (4km return) – An easy walk to the famous white rock formation
• Wattamolla to Eagle Rock (7km return) – Features the unique Eagle Rock formation and Curracurrong Falls, one of the few waterfalls in the world that plunges directly into the ocean

2. Figure 8 Pools

These naturally formed rock pools, including one in a perfect figure 8 shape, have become an Instagram sensation. Located near Burning Palms Beach, they’re accessible via a challenging 3km hike from Garrawarra Farm Car Park.

3. Wattamolla Beach & Lagoon

One of the park’s most popular destinations, Wattamolla features a protected beach, a freshwater lagoon perfect for swimming, and picnic facilities. The unique setting allows visitors to enjoy both calm lagoon waters and ocean waves in one location. A small waterfall adds to the picturesque setting.

4. Garie Beach

This stunning 2km stretch of golden sand is popular with surfers and swimmers. The beach is patrolled during summer months and offers spectacular coastal views. Nearby hiking trails lead to even more secluded beaches like North Era and Little Garie.

5. Karloo Pools & Olympic Pools

For freshwater swimming, head to these natural swimming holes. Karloo Pools is a 1-hour walk from Heathcote station, while the larger Olympic Pools requires an additional hour of hiking. These tranquil spots offer a refreshing alternative to the ocean beaches.

Nature & Outdoor Adventures

Wildlife Watching

Royal National Park is home to diverse wildlife including:

• Eastern grey kangaroos and wallabies
• Echidnas and possums
• Over 300 bird species
• Migrating whales (May-November)

Dawn and dusk are the best times to spot native animals. The cliffs along the Coast Track provide excellent whale watching opportunities during migration season.

Waterfall Walks

The park features several beautiful waterfalls:

• Winifred Falls – A 1-hour return walk leads to this picturesque cascade with a swimming hole
• National Falls – Easily accessible from the roadside near the town of Waterfall
• Curracurrong Falls – A coastal waterfall that plunges directly into the ocean, visible from the Coast Track

Water Activities

Beyond swimming at the beaches and freshwater pools, visitors can enjoy:

• Kayaking or rowing at Audley – Rent boats and explore the peaceful Hacking River
• Surfing at Garie Beach – Popular with surfers of all levels
• Snorkeling at Wattamolla – Explore the marine life in the protected lagoon

Safety & Etiquette

Hiking Safety

• Wear appropriate footwear and clothing
• Carry plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person for day hikes)
• Take a map, first aid kit, and fully charged phone
• Tell someone your plans before heading out
• Stay on marked trails

Beach & Water Safety

• Swim only at patrolled beaches (Garie Beach during summer)
• Check conditions before visiting Figure 8 Pools or other coastal rock platforms
• Be aware of rip currents at ocean beaches
• Never dive into pools or waterfalls without checking depth

Wildlife & Environment

• Do not feed wildlife
• Take all trash with you
• Stay at least 5 meters away from any snakes
• Respect plant life by staying on designated paths

Practical Travel Tips

What to Pack

• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
• Swimwear and towel (in warmer months)
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Reusable water bottle
• Camera
• Picnic supplies and snacks

Mobile Coverage

Mobile phone reception is patchy throughout the park, especially in valleys and remote coastal areas. Download maps and information before your visit and don’t rely solely on your phone for navigation.

Facilities

Toilet facilities are available at major locations including Audley, Wattamolla, Garie Beach, and Bonnie Vale. However, many hiking trails and remote beaches have no facilities, so plan accordingly.

Learn More

Ready for Your Royal National Park Adventure?

From dramatic coastal cliffs and pristine beaches to lush rainforests and hidden waterfalls, Royal National Park offers a remarkable diversity of landscapes and experiences just a stone’s throw from Sydney. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the Coast Track, a relaxing day at Wattamolla Beach, or the perfect Instagram shot at Figure 8 Pools, “the Nasho” delivers natural beauty in abundance.

Remember to check conditions before your visit, respect safety guidelines, and leave no trace to help preserve this magnificent park for future generations. With proper planning, your day or weekend in Royal National Park will create memories to last a lifetime.