The Coast Track (27km)

The Coast Track in Sydney’s Royal National Park is one of those journeys that stays with you long after your boots come off. Stretching between Bundeena and Otford, it threads together dramatic headlands, quiet beaches, wildflower-filled heath and long reaches of open coastline. Over two days, this 27 kilometre grade 4 walk reveals just how varied and beautiful this part of the South Coast can be, with chances to pause for a swim, watch whales during the cooler months, or simply enjoy the changing colours of the sandstone cliffs.

Starting from the relaxed seaside village of Bundeena, the northern stage takes you through some of the park’s most striking terrain. The track begins at the junction of Eric Street and Beachcomber Avenue, where you’ll find a small car park and a toilet. There is no drinking water along the route, so carrying plenty is essential. Whether you choose to finish at Wattamolla, roughly ten kilometres in, or continue on to Garie Beach for a sixteen kilometre day, this section rewards you with open coastal views, shady pockets of forest and a constant sense of the ocean’s presence. Places like Wedding Cake Rock, Little Marley Beach, Curracurrang Cove and Eagle Rock offer natural pauses where you can sit for a moment, enjoy a snack or take a cooling dip.

This part of the walk requires some planning, particularly as public transport does not reach into the park. A car shuffle or arranged pickup is the simplest option. If you plan to finish at Garie Beach, keep in mind that the gates are locked overnight, so aim to arrive well before sunset.

The southern stage, from Otford to Garie Beach, feels different in character, with a mix of ridge walking, rainforest pockets and beach crossings across its eleven kilometres. You can leave your vehicle at Otford Lookout or start from the nearby train station. The route follows the Ridge Trail before turning toward Werrong Lookout, then descends steadily to Burning Palms Beach. The detour to Figure Eight Pools is not part of the Coast Track and should only be attempted with a clear understanding of the risks and the current safety rating.

If you choose to continue towards Era and North Era Beaches, the valley opens to a cluster of heritage shacks that add an unexpected sense of history to the landscape. A steady climb leads you over the headland towards Little Garie Beach, and from there it’s a short and satisfying finish to Garie Beach itself. During summer, surf life savers patrol the area intermittently, making it a welcoming place to cool off after a solid day on foot.

As with the northern stage, transport logistics are important. There is no public transport within the park, and the gates at Garie Beach are locked overnight, so timing your arrival is essential. With thoughtful planning, both days offer a rewarding mix of challenge, solitude and those small, memorable details that make the Coast Track such a classic walk.