A 26 km clifftop epic from Bundeena to Otford — sea cliffs, whale lookouts, rainforest, the Figure Eight Pools and Wedding Cake Rock, all reachable by train.
FreeFamily
The Coast Track is the great Sydney thru-hike: 26 kilometres along the wild clifftops of Royal National Park from Bundeena to Otford, taking in sea cliffs, heath, rainforest gullies, empty surf beaches and headland after headland of ocean views. Fit walkers do it in a big day (8–10 hours); many split it overnight at North Era campground.
Highlights along the way
The track strings together the park’s icons — Wedding Cake Rock, Eagle Rock, the Figure Eight Pools at Burning Palms, and the palm forest at Palm Jungle. It’s one of the best coastal walks in Australia, and remarkably, both ends are on the train line.
Planning it
Train to Cronulla then ferry to Bundeena to start; finish at Otford station. Carry all your water (there’s little en route), check the tide for the Figure Eight Pools, and book North Era campground if staying over. Park entry is free on foot. More hidden places in the Royal.
🏅 Own or manage this place? Get your “Featured on AustralianSecret” badge
Show visitors you're featured in our independent directory — copy this snippet into your website. The badge links back to your listing here.
Watch
Photo Gallery
Facilities
North Era campground (book ahead); no water or shops on the track
Photography Tips
Golden hour on the Burning Palms/Palm Jungle stretch is unbeatable; Eagle Rock and Wedding Cake Rock are the signature frames.
Insider Tips
Carry all your water (2–3L+) — there is almost none en route. Check tide times before the Figure Eight Pools, and start early for a day crossing.
Getting There
Train to Cronulla then ferry to Bundeena to start; finish at Otford station (both on the rail line).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Royal National Park Coast Track?
26 km one way from Bundeena to Otford — 8 to 10 hours for fit walkers in a day, or an overnight with a stop at North Era campground.
Can you do the Coast Track by public transport?
Yes — train to Cronulla then ferry to Bundeena to start, and finish at Otford station. It’s one of few big hikes with rail access at both ends.
Do you need water on the Coast Track?
Yes, carry it all — there is almost no reliable water en route. Take 2–3 litres or more per person, especially in warm weather.
What are the highlights of the Coast Track?
Wedding Cake Rock, Eagle Rock, the Figure Eight Pools at Burning Palms, Palm Jungle rainforest and continuous clifftop ocean views.
