Top Things to do in Royal National Park
What to do and see in Royal National Park, New South Wales: The Best Nature & Parks
Discover the best top things to do in Royal National Park, Australia including Werrong Beach, Curra Moors Track, Karloo Pools, Figure 8 Pools, Garie Beach.
1. Werrong Beach
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 11 reviews
Reviewed By AndyXjian - Sydney, Australia
Hidden jewel of the Royal National Park. Train to Otford and walk the short distance to Otford Lookout and enjoy the magnificent view towards Wollongong. If you drive, park along the road. The trailhead starts at the Lookout, then branches off to the right at about 250 meters into the forest. Follow the signs to ‘Werrong Beach’. You descend through beautiful forest; not hard if you have minimal fitness. Soon all noise of the modern world fades behind you and you are with pure nature. Arriving out on the beach is a thrill. Experience the carefreeness of being nude, as most people do. There is enough space to be alone, or if you like people, go where others are enjoying tanning themselves naked without shame. Besides the sand, there are nice grassy areas to lay on. Return any friendly smiles, slip off your clothes, slap on your sun block, and do your own thing, whatever you want, as long as you don’t bother others. You are safe and welcome, single men, women, romantic couples, and old timers who sit yapping to each other. Great friendships can happen when nude and carefree in such a lovely place. Or just sleep and dream in your own world to the sound of the waves. There are some warm rock pools when the tide goes out on a hot summer afternoon. Bring food and plenty of water as there is no shop at all, no entrance fee, no opening/closing times. Please leave it as you find it by taking out any trash. Very highly recommended!
2. Curra Moors Track
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
Reviewed By DaughteroftheWind - Placitas, United States
The hike through scrub is well worth the payoff at the coast -- especially in early/mid October, when the wildflowers are in bloom.
3. Karloo Pools
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5 reviews
Reviewed By mrdom
One large and beautifully clear waterhole and plenty of smaller shallower ones as the river slowly cascades down. Very popular even on a weekday, with one person actually swimming in the cold September water. The walk down is nice, lots of rocky steps and some boggy areas even without heavy rain, but fairly easy (under 40 minutes down if you hustle, longer back uphill) and one good bush lookout spot just before the descent.
4. Figure 8 Pools
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 74 reviews
Figure Eight Pools is located on a dangerous rock platform in Royal National Park. Before you visit, check the weather, tides and swell (wave size). Only visit during low tide, on a day with low swell. Allow 2 hours for the walk from your car to the rock platform, and 2 hours to return. The 6km walk is steep, slippery and difficult. There are no facilities here; no water, no toilets, no food outlets and no rubbish bins. There's no mobile phone reception either. The Figure Eight Pools rock platform is hazardous and many people have been injured here. Call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.
Reviewed By katerinakU2731NC - Prague, Czech Republic
the way is much more than the place itself. the place is beautiful, but there is (probably all the time) a lot of people... but the way is incredibly great... a little difficult terrain, about one hour and half from the parking, up and down, partly along the beach, partly on the giant stones... breathtaking views... you must have enough water and good shoes... and you need to check tide forecast - it is absolutely necessary... you have to plan your trip at the time of low tide!!! beautiful! must see!!!
5. Garie Beach
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 30 reviews
Reviewed By KarenJames828 - Wollongong, Australia
Beautiful drive through the National park, lovely places to picnic Along the way. Great amenities including clean toilets and showers and a small kiosk. Great place to picnic and swim amd for those that love to fish, plenty of places Ali g the beach.
