Jibbon Head Engravings is a 2.6 kilometre walk in Royal National Park that offers a rewarding mix of coastal scenery and cultural significance. Graded as a level 3 track, it’s generally manageable for most walkers and takes around an hour and a half to complete at a relaxed pace, allowing time to soak in the setting and pause at key points along the way.
Starting from the relaxed coastal village of Bundeena, the walk begins at the eastern end of Jibbon Beach, a gentle arc of pale sand bordered by bushland. This beach, about 800 metres long, curves around the edge of Port Hacking, with views stretching across the water to Cronulla. It’s often dotted with moored boats and doesn’t see the same crowds as more accessible beaches, partly because it lacks patrols or built-up facilities. Its laid-back feel makes it a peaceful place to start or end a walk, with rock shelves at either end offering quiet corners to explore or just sit and listen to the water.
From the beach, a clear sandy track heads into the bush, quickly trading the open coastline for a more enclosed, leafy setting. Low branches and coastal heath form a natural tunnel as the trail gently climbs, offering glimpses back toward the water. Not far along, you’ll step onto a rocky platform with wide views across Port Hacking. The trail dips into a small gully before reaching a fork, where a side track leads to Little Jibbon Beach. This tucked-away cove has a quiet charm and feels far removed from busier stretches of coast. While it’s sometimes mistaken for a nudist beach, it’s not an official site, and any concerns can be directed through Crime Stoppers.
Continuing on, the main trail leads to a sandstone platform that holds deep cultural importance. This is where you’ll find the Jibbon Head Aboriginal engravings, created by the Dharawal people. Spread across the flat rock surface, the carvings depict marine and land animals, with a particularly large whale among the most striking. These engravings are more than just art – they are a lasting connection to the stories and lives of the First Nations people who have lived here for thousands of years. Visitors are encouraged to view them respectfully and avoid walking on the rock surface to help protect the site.
Bundeena itself is a lovely base for this kind of walk, with a few local cafes, small-scale accommodation, and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. It’s easy to reach either by car or by taking the ferry from Cronulla, which adds a scenic element to the trip. The walk to the Jibbon engravings is short but memorable, offering a sense of the layered history and natural beauty that defines this part of the Royal National Park. It’s the kind of route that invites you to slow down, notice the details, and appreciate the quiet connections between land, sea, and story.
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Total distance: 2524 m
Max elevation: 16 m
Min elevation: -4 m
Total climbing: 45 m
Total descent: -45 m
Getting to the trailhead: Royal National Park.
The Jibbon Head Engravings walk begins and ends at the corner of Loftus and Neil Streets in Bundeena. The most straightforward way to reach the starting point is by car. Bundeena is accessible via sealed roads, but note that a park entry fee applies when driving into Royal National Park. Once in town, parking is available near the trailhead.
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 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
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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