The Garie Beach to Eagle Rock hike is an 8-kilometre return walk through the stunning coastal landscapes of Royal National Park in New South Wales. With a grade 4 rating, this track offers a moderate challenge, taking around three and a half hours to complete. It follows a rugged section of the park’s coastline, winding past dramatic cliffs, secluded pockets of bushland, and breathtaking ocean views before reaching one of the park’s most recognisable landmarks—Eagle Rock.
Starting at Garie Beach, a broad expanse of golden sand backed by steep headlands, the track climbs steadily, offering sweeping views of the coastline. This southeast-facing beach is well-known among surfers and is patrolled daily from December to January. Facilities here include toilets, a kiosk, picnic tables, cold showers, and a Surf Life Saving Club. The showers draw water from a tank, so it’s best to bring your own drinking water, as supply can be limited during dry spells.
As the track ascends towards Garie Beach Lookout, hikers are treated to spectacular views stretching along the coastline towards Wollongong. While this lookout is not formally marked, it’s a natural vantage point along the Coast Track, rewarding walkers with a dramatic perspective over the beach and beyond. The path continues along the undulating headland, leading towards Eagle Rock, a striking rock formation that juts from the cliff face in the unmistakable profile of an eagle’s head.
Eagle Rock is one of Royal National Park’s most photographed landmarks, with its distinctive shape carved by the relentless forces of wind and sea over thousands of years. Just west of the rock, Carracurrong Creek cascades over the cliff edge, forming a waterfall that spills directly into the ocean—a rare and mesmerising sight. This section of the walk, roughly halfway between Garie Beach and Wattamolla, offers a remarkable place to pause and take in the rugged beauty of the park before retracing your steps back towards Garie Beach.
With its combination of coastal scenery, native bushland, and unique geological features, this walk is a rewarding way to experience the Royal National Park. Whether you’re drawn by the challenge of the track, the allure of the ocean views, or the striking formations along the way, this section of the coastline is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Total distance: 8134 m
Max elevation: 112 m
Min elevation: 7 m
Total climbing: 425 m
Total descent: -424 m
Getting to the trailhead: Royal National Park.
The Garie Beach to Eagle Rock walk begins and ends at the Garie Beach Car Park, located near the Garie Beach Surf Life Saving Club. The most convenient way to reach the trailhead is by car, as there is no direct public transport to this part of Royal National Park. Access is via Garie Road, which branches off Sir Bertram Stevens Drive, winding through the park’s lush bushland before descending towards the coast. A park entry fee applies for vehicles entering the national park, so be sure to carry a valid pass or be prepared to pay upon arrival. The car park provides ample space, though it can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays, especially during the summer months when the beach is popular with surfers and swimmers.
Closest towns to this walk: Audley, Barden Ridge, Bundeena, Caringbah, Cronulla, Engadine, Heathcote, Helensburgh, Loftus, Maianbar, Menai, Miranda, Otford, Oyster Bay, Stanwell Park, Sutherland, Sylvania, Waterfall, Wattamolla, Wollongong, Woodenbong, Woronora, Woronora Heights
Located near Cronulla, just an hour’s drive from both Sydney and Wollongong, Royal National Park is a sprawling 16,000-hectare expanse of coastal cliffs, secluded beaches, lush rainforests, and tranquil rivers. Established in 1879, it holds the distinction of being the world’s second-oldest national park and remains a favourite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Known locally as "the Nasho" or simply "the Royal," this historic park offers an incredible variety of landscapes, making it a prime spot for walking, hiking, cycling, and countless other outdoor adventures.
From the towering sandstone cliffs along the Coast Track to the serene freshwater swimming holes of Karloo Pool, the park’s diverse terrain caters to all levels of walkers and hikers. Scenic bushwalks wind through dense eucalypt forests, past ancient Aboriginal rock engravings, and along windswept headlands where the ocean stretches endlessly to the horizon. Seasonal wildflowers bring bursts of colour to the landscape, while waterfalls cascade over rock ledges into pristine pools below. Whether you prefer a short family-friendly walk or a challenging full-day hike, Royal National Park offers trails suited to every experience level.
Beyond its network of tracks, the park is a playground for nature lovers. Picnic areas are scattered throughout, perfect for a relaxed lunch after a morning on the trails. Surfers flock to Garie Beach for its consistent waves, while birdwatchers can spot lyrebirds, black cockatoos, and sea eagles soaring overhead. In the cooler months, the clifftops provide one of the best vantage points for watching humpback whales as they migrate along the coast. Those looking to extend their visit can set up camp at North Era or book a stay in one of the historic cottages dotted throughout the park.
With its breathtaking scenery and wealth of outdoor activities, Royal National Park is an unforgettable destination for anyone seeking to explore New South Wales’ natural beauty.
Looking for more walks in or near Royal National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
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