The Coast track
Royal National Park
Overview
Diversions and partial closures along Royal Coast Track
Royal Coast Track is closed between Garie and Little Garie Beach due to rock falls and erosion. You'll need to retrace your steps or exit the track prior to arriving at Garie or Little Garie beach.
Please check Royal Coast Track alerts for regular updates, or read more about planned infrastructure upgrades.
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.
- Distance
- 26km one-way
- Time suggested
- 2 days
- Grade
- Grade 5
- Trip Intention Form
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It's a good idea to let someone know where you're going. Fill in a trip intention form to send important details about your trip to your emergency contact.
- Entry fees
- Park entry fees apply
- What to
bring - Drinking water, hat, snacks, sturdy shoes, suitable clothing, sunscreen, tent, sleeping bag, raincoat
- Please note
- If you plan to walk The Coast track please use our NPWS app and download maps for Royal National Park before you leave home.
- You'll need to book North Era campground online if you plan to camp overnight here. It's a popular place so book well in advance, especially from October to March.
- You'll need to be well-prepared and bring enough water and food for the journey.
- Check our Coast Track itinerary webpage for more detailed information.
- If driving to Bundeena it's a good idea to stop by the Royal National Park Visitor Centre for park information and maps.
The Coast track can be tackled in sections or, if you’re super-fit, in a day. It's best experienced as a 2-day backpack trip with an overnight stop at North Era campground (advance bookings required). Plan your walk during whale watching season, May to October, for a chance to spot migrating humpback whales.
Take a virtual tour of The Coast track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
Track notes
Day 1
The northern section of the walk covers around 18km from Bundeena to North Era.
Allow at least 7hrs to enjoy the rugged beauty of Royal National Park's sandstone escarpments, sandy beaches, coastal heath and forest, as you walk.
There are several scenic stops along the way, including Little Marley Beach, Wattamolla, Curracurrang Cove near Eagle Rock lookout, and Garie Beach. Stop for a rest, have a picnic, or cool off with a swim, before continuing to North Era campground for the night.
Day 2
The southern section of the walk, between North Era and Otford lookout, covers 8km and takes around 3hrs.
You'll pass several heritage shacks at South Era, and travel through coastal rainforest of Burning Palms and Palm Jungle.
Why not stop at Burning Palms Beach, before climbing back atop the headlands. Take in the views from Werrong lookout then push on for the last couple of kilometres to Otford lookout.
Tours and events at this location
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The Coast track fitness adventures for women
Hike The Coast track and immerse yourself in the beauty of Royal National Park with Women’s Fitness Adventures. Enjoy coastal views and the company of a supportive group of women on this 4-day trek.
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The Coast track overnight hikes for youth
Hike The Coast track in Royal National Park on an overnight trip with Ausjourney. Reconnect with nature and learn transferrable life skills on this trek for The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.
Along the way
Download our app
The free NSW National Parks app lets you download maps and explore parks, things to do and places to stay—all without mobile reception.
How to prepare for a multi-day hike
Preparation is key for a safe and enjoyable multi-day walk. If you’re new to overnight hiking, here’s a list of what to consider when planning your epic adventure.
General enquiries
- National Parks Contact Centre
- 7am to 7pm daily
- 1300 072 757 (13000 PARKS) for the cost of a local call within Australia excluding mobiles
- parks.info@environment.nsw.gov.au
Operated by
- Royal National Park Visitor Centre
- 8.30am to 4.30pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
- 02 9542 0648
- 1300 072 757 for campground and cottage bookings
- npws.royal@environment.nsw.gov.au
- 2 Lady Carrington Drive, Audley, NSW 2232
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.
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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
What's nearby:
Things to do (85)
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- Canoeing/paddling (8)
- Cultural heritage (2)
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- Educational activities (1)
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- Historic heritage (8)
- Horse riding (1)
- Other experiences (3)
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- Picnics and barbecues (26)
- Sailing, boating and cruises (1)
- Sightseeing (29)
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- Surfing (1)
- Swimming (11)
- Visitor centres (2)
- Walking (39)
- Waterfalls (9)
- Waterhole (1)
- Wildflowers (seasonal) (8)