Otford to Figure Eight Pools Circuit Hike (15.7km)

The Otford to Figure Eight Pools Circuit is a 15.7 kilometre Grade 4 hike through the southern reaches of Royal National Park in New South Wales. Typically completed in around six hours, it offers an ever-changing mix of terrain and scenery, from the cool, shaded gullies of the Palm Jungle to the sweeping coastal grasslands overlooking the Pacific Ocean. With the optional side trip to the famous Figure Eight Pools, it’s a walk that blends forest tranquillity with the rugged beauty of the coastline. The views from Burgh Ridge are particularly striking, with the coastline stretching endlessly into the distance. It’s important to check tide and swell conditions before setting out, as access to the rock platform at Figure Eight Pools is only safe at low tide and during calm seas.

The Figure Eight Pools themselves are a natural curiosity, found on the rock shelf south of Figure Eight Pools Gully near Burning Palms. Over time, the ocean has carved a series of round sinkholes into the stone, with two joining to form a distinctive figure-eight shape. When the tide is low and the waves are gentle, these shimmering rock pools become a mesmerising spot to pause and take in the raw beauty of the coastline.

Starting from Otford Station, the walk begins with a climb up the stairs marked for Royal National Park. At the top, turn left onto a steep concrete path for about fifty metres, continuing to Station Road. Follow this quiet dirt road past an intersection, then turn right onto Fanshawe Road and continue uphill until you reach Lady Wakehurst Drive. Cross the road carefully and continue a short distance to the Otford Lookout car park, marked by a large green sign at the park entrance.

From Otford Lookout, take the stairs on the seaward side of the car park and follow the track that climbs steadily along the fenced cliffs, keeping the ocean to your right. The trail eventually veers inland through dense bush before reaching a signposted intersection for Werrong Beach. Continue straight along the Coast Track, which winds uphill through a lush corridor of ferns and open forest before joining a wide service trail. Follow this track until you reach the signposted junction for North Era.

Turn right here to follow the North Era track through thick coastal vegetation and down a long, winding hill. As the gradient steepens, the trail swings left and enters the Palm Jungle, a dense, humid section of forest filled with cabbage palms and tangled vines. The path can be uneven, with occasional fallen branches to navigate, but the atmosphere is enchanting. Emerging from the jungle, you’re greeted by open grasslands and panoramic views of the ocean. Continue across this exposed section toward the intersection with the Burning Palms track near the ranger’s hut.

From the beach, and only during low tide with minimal swell, it’s possible to follow the rocky passage beneath the headland to reach the Figure Eight Pools. Keeping the cliffs on your right, make your way around the first headland, cross the small creek, and continue to the second headland where the pools are found. The main pool lies near the seaward edge of the rock platform, perfectly aligned with the gully above. After enjoying the site, retrace your steps to rejoin the main track and continue along the circuit.

This walk captures the essence of the Royal National Park: a place where rainforest meets ocean, and every turn reveals another reminder of nature’s quiet power. With careful timing and preparation, the Otford to Figure Eight Pools Circuit offers a rewarding and unforgettable coastal adventure.