Royal National Park
Sydney, New South Wales, 2232
Known to locals as “the Royal” or “the Nasho,” Australia’s Royal National Park has been a favorite nature escape for Sydney locals since 1879—and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its diverse landscapes range from eucalyptus forests and ancient sandstone cliffs to wildlife-rich wetlands and sandy beaches beckoning for a swim.
The Basics
Take a hike along Royal National Park trails that span clifftop vistas and rainforest groves and cycle through pedaling tracks, such as the Loftus Loop. Don your swimsuit at Werrong Beach and the unusual Figure Eight Pools, where forested and shoreline picnic sites invite you to drop a blanket for year-round alfresco dining after your swim.
For longer adventures, book an overnight stay at the Bonnie Vale Campground or one of the park’s basic cottage offerings.
Things to Know Before You Go
Keep an eye out for Australian wildlife, including bats, birds, possums, sugar gliders, and wallabies.
Park entry fees are charged per vehicle and can be purchased at seasonal ticket booths or automated machines; bring exact change.
Ocean conditions around the Figure Eight Pools can be dangerous, so check the risk forecast and tide tables on the national park website before visiting.
Picnic areas are available at Bonnie Vale, Currawong Flat, and Garrie Beach. Refreshments are served at the Audley Dance Hall café.
How to Get There
Royal National Park is located about an hour’s drive south of Sydney’s central business district and an hour north of Wollongong. Public bus service runs between the Sutherland and Otford train stations and various park locations, and ferry service connects Cronulla and Bundeena on the park’s northern edge. Guided tours of Sydney’s south coast usually stop at the park and include transportation.
When to Get There
The park is open daily except for Christmas Day. The park gets crowded on summer weekends, so visit on a weekday if possible. Look for migrating whales off the coast from June to August and for blooming heathland wildflowers in the spring.
Royal National Park’s Best Hiking Trails
One of the best ways to appreciate the park’s varied landscapes is by hiking. The most popular trail is the Coast Track that hugs staggering sea cliffs and sandy beaches on the park’s eastern side, while the Karloo Track is a more moderate option that passes a natural swimming hole and Uloola Falls. Take in spectacular heath views and cool off at Little Marley Beach on a trail that starts at Bundeena Drive. The easiest trail is the shaded Forest Path, which can be completed in about an hour.
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