Heading south, this walk covers the coastline of the Royal National Park and can truly only be described as amazing. With breathtaking coastal views from Bundeena to Otford this walk follows the cliffs along a well managed and signposted track. You will enjoy the truly fantastic views out to sea and along the cliffs. Make an early start for day two, it is bigger that it appears.
(open in app)
There are closures in Royal National Park Today's Fire rating LOW MODERATE (No fire ban)
Cross sectional view of the The Coast Track bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the The Coast Track bushwalking track
Overview of this walks Grading - Based on the AS 2156.1 - 2001
These details are new. This new feature still requires more testing and refining. Please use the 'Walker Feedback' for report specific issues. Please e-mail Matt if you have any general comments. Hope you find it helpful.
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length
27km
Time
2 Days
.
Grade 4/6
Track: Hard
AS 2156.1
Gradient
Very steep (4/6)
Quality of track
Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
Signs
Directional signs along the way (3/6)
Experience Required
Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
Weather
Weather generally has little impact on safety (1/6)
Infrastructure
Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)
*This summary of grading information is new and still in testing
Some more detail of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining the grading looking at sections of the walk. Gradient
19km of this walk has short steep hills and another 3.5km is very steep. Whilst another 3.5km has gentle hills with occasional steps and the remaining 1.5km is flat with no steps.
Quality of track
16km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 9km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. The remaining (2km) follows a smooth and hardened path.
Signs
Around 15km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 12km has directional signs at most intersection.
Experience Required
Around 17km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 10km requires some bushwalking experience.
Weather
This whole walk, 27km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).
Infrastructure
Around 17km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 10km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).
Online bushwalking Magazine. Download the full magazine for free Bushwalk Australia eMag The Online Magazine is produces by the community at bushwalk.com and the Wildwalks team Bushwalk.com Australia's most active bushwalking forum - Check it out. Happy Reading. Matt :)
Catch the ferry to Bundeena
You can phone 131500 (the transport info line) for upto date running time info Use these links to plan your Ferry (and train) trip to the end of this walk.
Bundeena is a small township at the northern end of Royal National Park and the southern side of the entrance to Port Hacking. The town can be accessed by car or ferry. There are a few B&B's and other accommodation options and a number of cafes to choose from. Bundeena has a mixed atmosphere, partly a beach holiday community but also home to some permanent residents. There are two main beaches - Hordens Beach to the west and Jibbon Beach to the east. Both are nice beaches inside Port Hacking. More info
(0 km)
Bundeena Ferry Wharf
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Int of Beachcomber Rd Service Trail and Coast Walk Track: Moderate - road,servicetrail,servicetrail
Length = 1.76 km
Time = 34 mins
Climb = 71 m
Descent = -23 m
From Bundeena Ferry, on Brighton St, this walk turns left into Loftus St, goes past Mary St and turns right into Bournemouth St. The walk turns left into Scarbourough St and takes the first right into Beachcomber Av. Beachcomber Av is followed south and gradually to the east until reaching the entry into the Royal National Park. This is marked by several large information signs. Continue straight: From the end of Beachcomber Av, this walk heads around the locked gate, following the 'Coast Walk'[1] sign along the wide management trail. After about 50m, the trail passes a track (on the left) and continues until coming to an intersection with a wider sandy trail (on the left, which leads to Jibbon Head). Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the asphalt management trail heading towards the green signposts nearby, where it comes to the signposted intersection of the 'Coast Track'[2].
(1.76 km)
Int of Beachcomber Rd Servicetrail and Coast Walk
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Bundeena Lookout Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 689 m
Time = 12 mins
Climb = 4 m
Descent = -27 m
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Coast Track' signpost along the wide, sandy bush track as it winds through the short, thick scrub for a while before arriving at the coast, where there are great views across the South Pacific Ocean.
Bundeena Lookout
Alt = 28 m
This unfenced, informal lookout is perched high on the cliffs, looking east over the South Pacific Ocean. The lookout is not signposted nor officially named, but provides great view south along the escarpment. Cliff edge may be unstable and fragile - keep a safe distance.
(2.45 km)
Bundeena Lookout
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West Marley Beach Track: Moderate - bushtrack,beach
Length = 3.88 km
Time = 1 hr 19 mins
Climb = 136 m
Descent = -156 m
Turn right: From the lookout, this walk follows the bush track winding south along the coast line, keeping the ocean to the left as it winds in and out of scrub and across several rock surfaces. On a few occasions, the track will split into two and meet up again a short while later - just stick to the track closer to the coast. This walk follows the track markers until coming to a large gully, where it winds to the bottom via some steep rock steps. Once at the bottom, the track crosses the small stream at the wooden bridge and continues up the other side of the gully, climbing up the wooden steps and the hardened path to the top. From the top of the gully, the track continues along the path heading through the high heath for about 1.5km, until coming to an intersection with a management trail. This intersection is marked by a signpost saying 'Coast Walk'. Veer left: From the signposted intersection, the walk follows the coast, keeping the ocean to the left. The track winds down the long hill to the end of Marley Beach, and comes to a large green information sign. Continue straight: From the end of Marley Beach, this walk follows the coast along the beach until coming to the rock-shelf at the end. Marley Beach is very beautiful and, on a warm day, it would be a great spot to swim. On the rockshelf at the end of the beach, there are some shady spots to break from the walk. (At this, point there is also an intersection with a small bush track that heads up the hill and away from the beach.)
(6.33 km)
West Marley Beach
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Little Marley Beach Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 678 m
Time = 12 mins
Climb = 9 m
Descent = -15 m
Veer left: From the end of the beach, this walk heads up and along the rock-shelf to following the coast as the bush track weaves in and out of the short heath for a short while. The track then comes to an intersection with an unmarked bush track going off to the right and away from the cliffs. Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track winding along the coast, keeping the ocean and the cliffs to the left. The track winds down the hill for a while before coming to the end of Little Marley Beach.
Little Marley Beach
Alt = 3 m
Little Marley Beach, Royal National Park, is a yellow sand beach, approximately 140m long. The narrow beach faces north-east and has a rock platform at either end. The beach is not patrolled and has no other services. For information on this beach's pollution levels, follow the 'more info' link below. More info
(7 km)
Little Marley Beach
to
Wattamolla Dam Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 2.81 km
Time = 1 hr 8 mins
Climb = 174 m
Descent = -155 m
Continue straight: From Little Marley Beach, this walk follows the coast across the beach, keeping the ocean to the left as it climbs up the signposted bush track at the end to the clifftop. From here, the track follows the coast line for a short period before passing over numerous sections of metal footbridge. This continues through the scrub vegetation, with short periods where the track comes back onto the rockshelf above the cliff, until the track changes to purely being a well-managed bush track through the high scrub, as it winds along to the signposted intersection of the Coast Track. Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads south-west along the bush track, heading down the long hill through the high scrub and down through some rocks, as it approaches the small swimming hole made by the dam in Wattamolla Creek.
Wattamolla Dam
Alt = 21 m
Wattamolla pool (or dam), Royal National Park, is a small water hole on Wattamolla Creek, above the lagoon. The pool is on the Coast Track near Wattamolla picnic area and offers a quiet spot for a dip and a rest. The pool is formed by a small, constructed sandstone dam and fed by a small waterfall above.
(9.81 km)
Wattamolla Dam
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Northern End Wattamolla Picnic Ground Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 653 m
Time = 13 mins
Climb = 17 m
Descent = -31 m
Continue straight: From the creek, (which may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain) this walk heads west (keeping the swimming hole on the left) along the bush track. The walk winds through the tall scrub and down the long hill until crossing the wide, shallow creek to the Wattamolla Picnic Ground on the other side.
Wattamolla Kiosk
Alt = 10 m
The Wattamolla Kiosk in the Wattamolla Picnic Area provides basic supplies for day visitors. The kiosk does not keep strict hours and opens depending on weather and demand. It usually opens on weekends at around 10:30am and closes between 4 and 6pm. You can buy ice-creams, drinks and some hot food. For more information, call Audley Kiosk on (02) 9521 2240.
Wattamolla Picnic Area
Alt = 9 m
Wattamolla Picnic Area is found at the end of Wattamolla Road, about halfway along the coastline of Royal National Park. The area is blessed with a great beach, a lagoon and some wonderful creeks and rocks to explore. The small beach faces west and is tucked away in a deep bay. The lagoon sits behind the beach and is lined with sand on one side, and cliffs and rocks on the other shore. The picnic area has large open grassy areas, with some shade provided by trees and some picnic shelters. There is a small kiosk (often open weekends), toilets, electric BBQs and two car parks. There is water here, but needs to be treated before drinking. There is a gate on the road that is locked at night, the gate is open from 7am to 8:30pm.
(10.46 km)
Northern End Wattamolla Picnic Ground
to
Overflow Carpark Walk: Easy - road
Length = 337 m
Time = 8 mins
Climb = 21 m
Descent = -4 m
Continue straight: From the northern end of the picnic ground, this walk heads through the car park and across the grass to the toilet block. Turn right: From the toilet block, this walk follows the signs to the Overflow Car Park. (This is the upper car park.) At the back of the car park, this walk comes to an intersection with a large management trail, with a gate and signpost saying 'Garrie 5.8km'.
(10.8 km)
Overflow Carpark
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Curracurrang Cove Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 1.41 km
Time = 26 mins
Climb = 28 m
Descent = -49 m
Turn left: From the car park, the walk follows the management trail climbing up the long hill. The walk passes two large water towers as it continues along for a while, before coming to a great lookout over the ocean, marked by a sign saying 'Curracurrang'. From the lookout, the walk continues along the cliff edge, keeping the ocean to the left as it follows the bush track. The track winds along the coast to Curracurrang Cove, where there is an intersection with another bush track that heads up and away from the ocean.
Curracurrang Cove
Alt = 6 m
Curracurrang Cove is a small cove about 1km SW of Wattamolla, on the coast of the Royal National Park. The cove faces east and is where Curracurrang Creek meets the ocean. The creek, the cove and the surrounding rocks provide great scenery, making this a relaxing place to stop and enjoy. There is evidence that Aboriginal people lived in this cove. There are a few middens in the area, some rock shelters and Curracurrang creek provides a near-permanent water supply. The cove was first occupied 7500 years ago and was used as a regular campsite by the Dharawal people. More info
(12.22 km)
Curracurrang Cove
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Eagles Rock Lookout Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 1.95 km
Time = 44 mins
Climb = 108 m
Descent = -82 m
Turn left : Keeping the ocean to the left, the track climbs up out of Curracurang Cove and continues all the way up to the top of the large hill, winding through the thick heath across the top and down the other side to Curracurang Creek at the bottom. After crossing the creek, the track follows the bushtrack heading up short hill and along the bushtrack winding through the scrub for a short while before coming to the Eagle Rock lookout at the information signpost.
Eagle Rock Lookout
Alt = 33 m
Eagle Rock lookout is an informal lookout marked by an information sign on the Coast track in the Royal National Park. The lookout is about halfway between Garie Beach and Wattamolla. Eagle rock is a piece of the cliff line that looks amazingly like the head of an eagle, with the eye and all. The lookout is about 150m west of the Eagle Rock on the other side of Carracurrong Creek. Eagle Rock is often used as an icon for the Royal National Park. Carracurrong Creek also forms a waterfall into the ocean nearby.
(14.16 km)
Eagles Rock Lookout
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Int. Coastal Walk and Curra Moors Brook Trail Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 139 m
Time = 3 mins
Climb = 9 m
Descent = -4 m
Continue straight: Keeping the ocean to the left the track follows the bushtrack heading through the heath along the coast for a short while until it comes to the intersection of the bushtrack at the end of the service trail, marked by the two post's where the sign has been pulled off.
(14.3 km)
Int. Coastal Walk and Curra Moors Brook Trail
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Garie Beach Lookout Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 2.53 km
Time = 54 mins
Climb = 129 m
Descent = -64 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads along the bush track and the rockshelf, keeping the ocean on the left. This continues, with the track becoming a narrow trail that goes through the scrub. In various sections, metal walkways have been built to stabilise the environment in the area. This continues until reaching an intersection with a track, heading off to the right. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track around the left-hand side of the 'Curra Moors car park' sign, following the cliffs and keeping the ocean on the left of the track. After several hundred metres of high scrub, the track emerges out into the opening which has fantastic views of Garie Beach and the hills to the south.
Garie Beach Lookout
Alt = 102 m
Garie Beach Lookout is an unofficial lookout on the hill at the eastern end of Garie Beach. The lookout has no facilities and is simply a spot on the Coast track. The lookout provides great views looking southwest along the coast along Garie Beach, Royal National Park and down to Wollongong.
(16.83 km)
Garie Beach Lookout
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North-East End of Garie Beach Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 508 m
Time = 13 mins
Climb = 6 m
Descent = -105 m
Continue straight: From Garie Beach Lookout, this walk follows the bush track heading down towards Garie Beach, winding down the long hill, descending the steep rock and wooden steps to the bottom of the hill where the walk continues through the grassy clearing to the end of the beach.
(17.34 km)
North-East End of Garie Beach
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Int. Garie Beach YHA Trk Walk: Easy - beach
Length = 375 m
Time = 7 mins
Climb = 11 m
Descent = -5 m
Continue straight: From the end of Garie Beach, the walk follows the coast across the beach, keeping the ocean to the left until coming to the base of some timber steps, which lead up the hill on the right.
(17.72 km)
Int. Garie Beach YHA Trk
to
Garie Beach YHA Optional sidetrip: Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 341 m
Time = 10 mins
Climb = 48 m
Descent = -9 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the stairs away from the ocean. The track winds up the hill steeply then continues for approximately 350m along the hillside, in and out of a gully, to rise up to the cabin signposted as 'YHA Garie Beach'. (Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn right to continue along this walk.)
YHA Garie Beach - Destroyed
Alt = 46 m
**On 02/12/2010 this hut was completely destroyed by fire and plans for the future are not yet decided [3]. Accommodation no longer available
Garie Beach YHA Youth Hostel, in Royal National Park, is a basic but comfortable cabin. The unstaffed and locked cabin is situated north of Garie Beach car park, high on the hill behind the next gully.
The cabin contains solar lighting, water, gas kitchen, a 'loo with a view' and the capacity to sleep twelve people. You need to provide your own bed sheets and toilet paper. The cabin costs $17.50/adult per night, with the potential to rent the youth hostel out for a week. The key must be picked up from YHA Kent St, Sydney, prior to arrival at the YHA. The key has a $50.00 deposit. To make a booking phone 9261 1111. More info
(17.72 km)
Int. Garie Beach YHA Trk
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Garie Beach Car Park Track: Moderate - beach
Length = 312 m
Time = 6 mins
Climb = 5 m
Descent = -6 m
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk heads along the beach, keeping the ocean on your left, for approximately 200m to Garie Beach car park on the right.
Garie Beach
Alt = 4 m
Garie Beach, Royal National Park, is a large, south-east facing, yellow sand beach. The beach is backed by steep headlands and gullies. There is a large car park at the end of Garie Rd for access to the beach. Garie Beach is popular for surfing, patrolled 9am-5pm from December to January. Facilities include toilets, kiosk, picnic tables, cold showers and Surf Life Saving Club. The water from the shower should be treated before drinking, this water comes from a tank and may be unavailable during dry periods. More info
(18.03 km)
Garie Beach Car Park
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North Era Bush Campground Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 1.6 km
Time = 43 mins
Climb = 121 m
Descent = -121 m
Turn left: From the Garie Beach car park, the walk follows the sign to 'North Era', keeping the sea to the left. This track follows the base of the large grassy hill between the rocks and the ocean, to the Little Garie cabins and up past the Little Garie Community Hall. Continue straight: From the community hall in Little Garie, the walk heads steeply up the hill, following the track to the south-west. To prevent erosion of the hill, wooden steps have been installed. From the top of the ridge, the track continues down the other side, keeping the ocean on the left while winding down into North Era Bush Campground.
North Era camping ground
Alt = m
North Era camping ground, Royal National Park, is a large dune area situated directly behind North Era Beach. This camping spot is popular with surfers, and it also has a toilet and a cleared area to pitch your tent. A maximum of 36 people (12 sites) can camp here[4], so there is plenty of room for everyone. Open fires are not permitted, you can carry a fuel stove for cooking. A camping permit is required from NPWS before arriving (Phone:(02) 9542 068). Water is often available from the creek (treat before drinking), If dry you can walk to Garie Beach for water, although the water here may also be dried up, during a dry period it is best to carry all your water with you.
(19.63 km)
North Era Bush Campground
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Int of Coast Track and Burgh Ridge Track (Sth) Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 1.12 km
Time = 27 mins
Climb = 96 m
Descent = -20 m
Continue straight: From the North Era Bush Campground, the walk heads up the grassy hill, keeping the ocean to the left. Just before the buildings, the walk comes to an intersection with a track on the right (which heads into the trees). Continue straight: From the top of the ridge, the walk heads down the hill, keeping the ocean to the left as it winds down between the cabins to the beach at the bottom. From here, the walk continues around the back of the beach following the coast, and up between the houses to the large clearing before the top of the hill. Here, the walk comes to an intersection with two rough bush tracks towards the top of the hill. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill and through the ferns, heading up and away from the cabins but still keeping the sea to the left of the track. This continues until the track comes to a large sign saying 'Coast Track'.
(20.75 km)
Int of Coast Track and Burgh Ridge Track (Sth)
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Burning Palms Beach (southern end) Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 939 m
Time = 18 mins
Climb = 4 m
Descent = -79 m
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the sign to 'Burning Palms' along the bush track, winding down the side of the hill, past the cabins, then at the bottom the track joins onto a metal walkway that soon changes to a narrow bush track. This passes behind Burning Palms Beach until coming to a sign saying 'Otford via Palm Jungle'.
(21.69 km)
Burning Palms Beach (southern end)
to
The Squeeze Way and Burning Palms Tracks Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 3 km
Time = 1 hr 20 mins
Climb = 307 m
Descent = -83 m
Veer right: From the intersection near the rangers' hut, the walk follows the 'Otford' signpost along the defined bush track up and along the coast. After walking through grasslands for some time, the track comes to a very faint intersection with the Figure Eight Pool's track, just before the dense palm jungle[5]. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track heading up into the palm jungle. After entering the jungle, the track is quite clear but in some places there are obstacles, such as fallen trees and branches. The track continues in this manner for some time before turning inland and climbing steeply up to the top of the large hill. At the top, the track flattens out and heads towards the ocean, soon arriving at an intersection with a management trail. At this point there are several signposts pointing towards 'Otford' and 'Carawarra Farm'.
(24.69 km)
The Squeeze Way and Burning Palms Tracks
to
Otford Lookout Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 1.88 km
Time = 43 mins
Climb = 58 m
Descent = -118 m
Turn left: From the intersection, the track follows the Otford arrow down the service trail, as it winds through the bush to the end where it becomes a bush track. From here, the track continues along the well-managed bush track through a beautiful section of ferns. After a while, this begins to gradually descend until reaching an intersection marked with a signpost for 'Werrong Beach'. Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track, winding down the hill for a short while before coming to the fenced-off edge of the cliffs, which it follows keeping the ocean to the left as it winds down the hill. After a while, the track changes back to a bush track and continues down some wooden stairs to a car park signposted as 'Otford Lookout'.
(26.57 km)
Otford Lookout
to
Otford Train Station Track: Moderate - road
Length = 804 m
Time = 24 mins
Climb = 37 m
Descent = -97 m
Veer left: From the lookout and the car park, this walk follows the 'Otford Station' sign along Lady Wakehurst Drive to quickly meet Fanshawe Rd. This walk turns right onto Fanshawe Rd, which it follows down the long hill until it comes to the intersection of Station St. At the intersection, this walk turns left and continues along the road, passing the intersection with another road heading down to the right and coming to the 'T' intersection of the next dirt road. From here, the walk continues down the hill following the 'Otford Station' signs down the steep concrete path, and down the steps to the station.
Fire Danger This walk passes Greater Sydney Region fire area which currently has a LOW MODERATE rating and No fire ban in place. (Tomorrow the Fire Danger Rating is LOW MODERATE, No fire ban.) (Downloaded 7 years ago) This walk passes Illawarra/Shoalhaven fire area which currently has a LOW MODERATE rating and No fire ban in place. (Tomorrow the Fire Danger Rating is LOW MODERATE, No fire ban.) (Downloaded 7 years ago) Please Note: Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Region: Sydney & Surrounds Park feesCampingFacilities Current Park Closure information for Royal National Park Closure information last downloaded Sunday 27th of September 2015 07:00 AM Closed areas: The Coast track upgrade The Coast track will be undergoing construction works between Beachcomber Ave and Marley Beach over a 9 month period. Works include resurfacing, installation of raised board walk and stairs and will be undertaken between October 2015 and May 2016. During the works it will be necessary, at times, to close the Coast Track for visitor safety. Please be aware that during closures the full coast track walk will not be possible and you may need to plan your route to start and finish at a different location. The Royal National Park alerts page will be updated regularly so please check it before you leave home. Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact Royal National Park area office on (02) 9542 0632 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.
Closed areas: Wedding Cake Rock Access to Wedding Cake Rock is prohibited. National Parks and Wildlife Service has undertaken a geotechnical assessment of the rock, which found that there is high chance that it could collapse at any time. Safety fencing has been erected to protect the public while a more permanent solution is developed. This is a really beautiful location and a spectacular rock formation to look at, but the key is doing it at a safe distance from the edge.
Safety alerts: Audley precinct in wet weather Access across the Audley Weir may be closed due to river flooding during times of wet weather. During wet weather, NPWS advise park visitors to visit Live Traffic NSW to ascertain the status of the Weir crossing before commencing their travel to the park. During times of closure, access to Bundeena, Maianbar residential areas, Royal National Park Visitor Centre, including the Audley Dance hall and cafe, is via McKell Ave Waterfall.
Fairly easy walk except the last hill on the first day killed our group on the Duke of Edinburgh hike. Also the lack of shade meant we were murdered by the sun... All up however a fairly good hike
Mike Cuming - mga-spc@bigpond.net.au
IP:58.173.42.xxx | 2008-10-18 17:03:44
This is a brilliant walk as described and your track notes were as usual, most helpful. However, your reference to the North Era Bush Campground (where I camped the night) being "behind the small community of houses at North Era" is not correct. The only houses in the area are at South Era, where I found no sign of any campsite. The only buildings as such at North Era are the two bush toilets for campers.
admin - re: North Era Campsite
Super Administrator | 2008-11-07 20:19:42
Fixed this note -- thanks
Lucy
IP:220.235.193.xxx | 2008-11-18 20:37:26
This walk would have been fantastic in reasonable weather- walking on Sydney's coldest day since the mid 19th century was not our Duke of Edinburgh groups cup of tea. 120 km/h winds also made parts of the track ridiculously dangerous, especially on the top of rocky cliffs.
Overall, an easy walk though. In the summer, swimming would be perfect because of all of the beaches. The camping site at Wattamolla is great as well- equipped with barbeques, toilets and even cold showers as well as the lagoon and a beach to swim in.
Jess
IP:124.170.92.xxx | 2009-03-21 14:14:58
This really is a great walk. Every Sydneysider should do it at least once in their lives. I did it in December with lots of preparation but very little actual bushwalking experience. It was tough, but very satisfying to know that we'd walked that far.
A note for first-timers: If you're walking Bundeena-Otford, don't underestimate how hard the second day will be. We got caught out by assuming that because we'd covered two-thirds of the distance on the first day, the second day would be a leisurely stroll home. How wrong we were! The hills were absolutely brutal and the tracks were a lot rougher than Day One. We still enjoyed ourselves, but we ate every morsel of our emergency back-up food just to fuel our sorry arses up those hills. Be prepared! Take chocolate!
Also, don't rely on there being running water at North Era. When we were there in December, there was nothing in the creek but mud. We walked back over the hill in the morning to fill our bottles at Garie Beach, but we felt a but dumb for not filling up the night before. Remember also that all water in the park needs purification - even water from the Garie Beach and Watamolla tanks.
Have fun, and thanks, Wild Walks for the great track notes!
Bill - No water at North Era
IP:211.31.100.xxx | 2009-03-22 15:53:08
Thanks for the track notes, which were in the most part accurate and helpful.
I agree with Jess about there not being any running water at North Era. I was counting on it for my second night camp (after camping the first night at Providential Point) but without water I decided to keep going and walk out on the second day - hard work!
Thanks also Jess, for the note about purifying the tank water at Wattamolla and Garie. I purified the water I got from the couple of streams (below Wattamolla Dam and also at Curracarong) but wasn't sure whether the tank water could be trusted, even if treated - I'll be better prepared next time.
Craig and Sharon - Coast Walk
IP:123.243.205.xxx | 2009-05-10 20:15:04
Read your track notes. My wife and I attempted this trek three days ago. Coming from Bundeena we faced extremely strong winds for the whole of day 1. We fought with it so much that we didn't make it to North Era before dark, after setting out at 0700hrs in the morning. Had to camp in a clearing in the bush along the track. Distance measurements on sign posts didn't seem accurate. We would walk for 2 hours on flat track and cover less ground than 1 hour of hills and winding tracks. We carried 6.5 litres of water between us and had purifying equipment as well, we drew water from Curracurang Gully and also from the surf club at Garie. There is no way you could carry enough water, not to refill along the track, as suggested by National Parks office. That is just dangerous. A note to others, the kiosk at Wattamolla isn't open in the cooler months, as we found and the kiosk at the Garie Beach Surf Club also doesn't open when patrols are not happening. I would recommend people of good fitness only attempt this trek. The elements can change and make it very difficult. Like Jess, we too thought the second day would be easier, but were astounded at the climbs we had to make. A last note, the signage/markers were non-existent in most places, which can also be dangerous. We have walked many National Park walks in Queensland and never have we seen a popular walk such as the Coast Track, so poorly marked. We had to repeatedly check the map whenever we came across an intersection. There are many misleading tracks that lead to nowhere and you have to be aware and check before you go too far in the wrong direction.
Would like to be able to camp at more locations if required. Not sure about the comment from Lucy about the Campsite at Wattamolla, we only found a picnic area and nothing from National Parks suggested there was any campground other than North Era available.
Overall, we were glad to have completed the walk, but would not hurry to do it again. Would loved to have had more time to enjoy the scenery, but were pushed for time and daylight. We learnt some vital lessons.
Tova - Coast Walk in one day
IP:203.13.128.xxx | 2010-04-27 03:25:28
I did the Coast Walk from Otford to Bundeena in a single day and althought it was extremely hard, it is definitely possible for walkers of medium fitness. It took about 8.5 hours, but that included getting lost a couple of times - wish I'd seen your track notes beforehand!
Anonymous - Coast Walk
IP:220.101.80.xxx | 2010-08-29 01:32:22
It is not satisfactory that there is a sign just past Garie Beach that says "Track Closed" which is the access track to North Era campground. Particularly when the National Parks does not tell you this before heading on the walk. Another group advised us that despite it being "closed" everyone does it anyway - National Parks should remove the sign saying closed and put a sign in saying difficult or use caution or something to that affect. Would not bother doing the track again despite enjoying the walk from Bundeena to Garie Beach,,,
admin - re: Coast Walk
Super Administrator | 2010-08-29 23:21:34
Anonymous wrote:
just past Garie Beach that says "Track Closed" which is the access track to North Era campground.
Hi,
Thanks for your comment. Sounds like a frustrating experience for you, shame because it is such a great walk. I have sent a note to NPWS to see if we can get a better understanding of what is happening here - I drop another note here when I know more.
Matt :)
admin - re: Coast Walk
Super Administrator | 2010-08-30 01:33:27
Anonymous wrote:
...just past Garie Beach that says "Track Closed" ...
Just got word back from NPWS
"The access track from Garie Beach to North Era campground is open. Please follow the signs to this track which leads over the hill. There was an old access track around the ridge that has been closed for safety reasons due to a rock fall, and is signposted as such. For your own safety please do not use this track."
Hope that makes sense, the main track is open, just ignore the old closed track.
Matt :)
Ranga - A great walk to do again
IP:59.167.1.xxx | 2010-09-13 12:34:31
Did this track over the weekend. I found it to be a great walk. A few notes:
1. Snakes are prevalent on this track, especially between Bundeena and Garie. Carry enough first aid gear and knowledge to treat a snake bite. They tend to stick to the sides of tracks.
2. Walking between Bundeena and Garie, the track can be a little hard to follow, but it is marked either by a new(er) green post, a yellow arrow or an old marker. Head to these and you should be able to see the next one.
3. Fresh water is best collected at the creeks, Wattamolla pool being a personal fave. The water out of the tap at Garie doesn't look the best. All water should be treated.
4. The new track at Era starts at the flag pole at Garie and is easy to follow from there.
5a. When continuing past the Eras, the track forks a couple of times. If you pick the track that continues up the hill you come out at a point marked by two posts (This area makes a good alternate camp site if you dont mind a little slope). Keep going up the ridge and you have a choice of going left or right. Left takes you through the Palms (harder, add at least an hour to your expected times) and right takes you to the G. farm.
5b. At G. Farm there is a sign indicating that Otford is 8km away. I would say it is more like 4km.
Kosta - Coast Track To Otford
IP:129.78.32.xxx | 2011-05-04 02:32:03
I walked this over the weekend with a mate. Leading up to the weekend, there was quite a bit of rain in the region. Just before Wattamolla, there are 2 creek crossings (the second being just on the edge of Wattamolla Dam).
Both crossings were flooded and fast flowing. The first ends with a waterfall/drop. Creek depth was about 1.6 m. We crossed the initial creek by walking up about 50m through medium dense scrub. Rope is definitely a good idea for this. The second crossing is just on the edge of Wattamolla. There is a railing that can be used to cross this section.
In terms of camping, the rain and flooding slowed us down and we were losing the light so we ended up staying at the northern end of Garie just after the steep decline (see track notes "Int. Coastal Walk and Curra Moors Brook Trail to Int. Garie Beach YHA Trk 3.4km 1 Hrs 10 mins"). Good place to camp, out of the wind and with a good source of water (though this was likely due to the rain). When we passed the campsite at North Era the next day, the ground looked boggy, so if you are walking in rainy conditions, you might want to consider Nth Garie.
Don't be banking on Otford for food. There is meant to be an amazing APPLE PIE shop as we found out from a local, but it's in the opposite direction to the station, so too late for us. Here is a link for directions:
http://www.otford.com.au/pantry
TL:DR; rainy conditions are met with rising creeks, be wary. Nth Garie is a good alternative camping option. A beautiful and varied walk. Someone go and get apple pies and tell me if i missed out
Anon - Walking at Night?
IP:134.159.131.xxx | 2011-07-25 01:28:57
Hi there,
A group of us are looking to do some walking at night. Is it possible to do night walking along this track?
admin - re: Walking at Night?
Super Administrator | 2011-07-25 01:43:16
Anon wrote:
walking at night.
Hi
You may be interested in this http://moonwalks.com.au/.
Bushwalking at night can be great, but you do need to be aware that it posses additional risks that need to be managed. There is the more obvious risks with the tall unfenced cliffs, and less obvious ones like it may be easier to twist and ankle etc, and the greater difficulty in navigation.
I am not aware of any night closures in the park.
Hope you enjoy the walk, let us know how you get on.
Matt :)
Anon - re: walking at night
IP:134.159.131.xxx | 2011-07-31 08:53:29
Hi Matt,
Thanks for the feedback - we are only looking for some practice at night as we are doing the Oxfam 100km trailwalk at the end of august which will most likely involve walking during the night. I will definately check that site out! My main concern originally was whether there were parts of the track which get closed off at night etc.
Thanks again!
Neil
IP:129.78.32.xxx | 2011-10-26 00:46:57
I did this walk a few weeks ago. It is really beautiful. I started the day with the Jibbon Head Circuit and continued with the Coastal Walk, which was doable in one day. Due to heavy rainfall the day before big pools up to 30cm deep covered the track. At Marley there was a little river, almost waist-deep.
The ticketmachine at Otford station only works with coins (which I spend on icecream at Garie..), a ticket to central is A$6, save some coins for it
Atalaya
IP:112.213.168.xxx | 2012-01-10 21:29:30
A friend and I just did this walk. Overall it was excellent and I would definitely do it again... but better prepared next time!
The biggest issue for us was that between Burning Palms and Palm Jungle the track was impossible to find. There were countless little trails leading off in all directions and absolutely no signposting that we could see. After sitting outside Palm Jungle for ten minutes wondering what to do we saw the two other hikers who had camped near us at North Era the night before coming back from the Jungle, and they told us it was virtually impenetrable and hard to find any track at all. Maybe we found it more difficult than it was, and maybe the track was there all along, but I'm definitely going to send NPWS a letter or something recommending that there is more singposting in that area because that lomandra scrub is really easy to get lost in! We all ended up backtracking to the intersection with the Garawarra Farm track and heading out that way, which was a bit of a disappointment when we had gotten that far.
Anyway, just a word to future walkers: search out a good map and track notes on that area before going! Or just be aware of the alternative route up through Garawarra Farm if do you get stuck.
Vanessa - Coast Track Notes
IP:60.240.220.xxx | 2012-02-12 05:32:07
Just got back from walking Bundeena to Otford with my husband. Take your track notes to get out of Bundeena. Track is easy to find and fairly easy all the way to Wattamolla. Nice picnic area, lagoon and water holes feral for swimming. Drank from the tap that said 'Water not for drinking' and it was ok (ish - didn't fill all our bottles or anything). At the top of the hill before Garie Beach got caught in an electrical storm while walking the metal section there. Very scary, no place to go. Hail and a lot of rain meant a very slippery descent to Garie. Rested at the Surf Club on Garie - they have bathrooms and showers but kiosk was shut. Nearly gave up and camped at Garie because of the pouring rain but after a while it eased and the sun came out. Pushed on to North Era and was glad we did - beautiful campground (pick a high point to pitch your tent because if there's a lot of water the creek rises rapidly and the hollows fill up). There's a toilet but creek water was scungy - lots of roo poo in it. Nice beach.
Next day we pushed on but got lost on the ridge after the cabin community of South Era - took the right hand track up the mountain instead of down to the beach. Didn't realise out mistake till we reached the top. Ended up joining the Cliff Track down to Otford.
1. Bring shoes that can get very very very wet and muddy. We crossed 15 creeks and had to remove shoes for some of them. Also a healthy mix of beach, scrub, metal walkway (lots, slippery)and rocks to walk on.
2. Bring wet weather gear for your pack.
3. Get the topo maps for when you get lost - it can save you backtracking. The map the tourist office gives out doesn't show the handy connecting tracks and roads. You will probably get lost. Don't stress it.
4. Bring good water purifying system.
5. Most walkers were doing this trip in 1 day, of those camping we were the only ones who paid and did it properly. Suspect the ranger never checks. Wouldn't bother paying again.
A beautiful trip with really varied terrain.
PS. That darned Otford ticket machine still only takes coins. $6.40 to city or $2.10 to buy an 'authority to ride' card - pay the rest of the fare when you disembark.
PPS. Pie shop is on the top side of Otford Station. There's nothing once you reach the station and it's a big climb back to the pie shop :( Mark it on your map before you go.
Claire - Easter weekend Coast Track
IP:124.171.19.xxx | 2012-04-09 02:02:29
My boyfriend and I did this walk over the Saturday and Sunday of the Easter weekend, thanks for the great track notes! With the track notes and the topo map we had no trouble finding the main track, although I can see how people with a bit less experience can get lost on the second half of this walk. It always pays to carry proper maps to avoid getting lost.
A few points:
1. Currently there is plenty of water in the creeks and in the tanks at Wattamolla and Garie. We treated the water from the taps at Garie, it was a little tannin stained but tasted fine. Just make sure you treat it.
2. We are relatively young and quite fit and could have done this walk in one day, but were glad to have fresh legs on the second day. Although we walked from North Era to Otford in 2 hours 10 minutes the climb really gets your legs burning.
3. The camp site at North Era had a few people who had parked at Garie and walked over to camp for the night. Unfortunately they brought music, alcohol and lit a fire. They did keep it down after we spoke to them but I would avoid this walk on a busy weekend in the future.
4. Check the train times before you go as it leaves Otford for Sydney every 2 hours or so. We managed to make the 9:15am train on Sunday by walking very fast, the next train is 11:15am and we didn't want to hang around that long. Thanks to everyone warning about having coins to pay for the train at Otford :)
Thanks Wild Walks for such a great website, now planning a Mount Solitary/Jamison Valley trip in May.
admin - Easter weekend Coast Track
Super Administrator | 2012-04-11 14:26:23
Thanks for the feedback Claire (and others)
Glad the notes where helpful, sounds like Palm jungle area is getting very overgrown.
Enjoy Mount Solitary, another great walk.
Matt :)
Michael
IP:27.32.6.xxx | 2012-04-28 07:17:21
Just got back from having completed this walk yesterday. Thank you for the track notes and maps, they were absolutely invaluable and highly accurate. We had no problems finding the path and navigating our way, although there are several misleading false paths through Palm Jungle.
Overall we had a great time and would recommend it to anyone. The only warning I would give is that with all the recent rain the tracks are very muddy in places so appropriate footwear is in order.
admin - re:
Super Administrator | 2012-04-28 11:59:19
Michael wrote:
Just got back from having completed this walk yesterday. Thank you for the track notes and maps, they were absolutely invaluable and highly accurate.
Thanks Michael
Glad you had a good time. A great walk. Thanks for the feedback.
Matt :)
Steve
IP:110.174.132.xxx | 2012-05-06 05:02:43
Great track notes and thanks to all those who reviews and tips on the site.
6 of us did the walk comfortably in 1 day. I also recorded the trek if you'd like to see what you're in for:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/175149011
Tips for the trip:
1. $6.40 in coins for your return ticket
2. You can definitely bring an SLR, track is not too difficult to navigate with a camera around your neck
3. Save a bit of energy for the steep climbs during the last 6 or 7 kms.
4. Bring a headlamp if you're doing this in 1 day... (and in the winter)
5. Bring a windbreaker or light jacket. It gets very windy up on the headlands.
Overall a great walk... and great track notes, thanks!
Kristin - Reverse Direction?
IP:210.193.162.xxx | 2013-03-12 02:06:52
Hi,
Has anyone done the walk in the reverse direction?
What are the pros/cons of each?
Kristin
admin - re: Reverse Direction?
Super Administrator | 2013-03-12 02:15:26
Kristin wrote:
Hi,
Has anyone done the walk in the reverse direction?
What are the pros/cons of each?
Kristin
Hi Kristin - you can do the walk in the reverse direction. Just be aware that the campsite is much closer to the southern end of the walk and the Ferry service from the northern end is limited so it is easy to miss the last ferry and get stuck there for a night.
happy walking
Matt :)
MyS - Same same
IP:27.32.63.xxx | 2013-03-30 03:29:10
Tracknotes and all the comments here are very helpful and accurate.
We walked after a month of relatively dry weather and would suggest not to walk after extended periods of rain as there are sections (e. g. north of Era) which look like they would be very muddy. Also creeks and streams carried water, but it was easy to cross them with dry feet.
The kiosk at Garie beach was open and we refuelled with a burger. Never had celery in a burger before...but I was hungry enough to enjoy. (Oh: and got bottled water from there.)
On campsite were about 18 tents and space for more. Gladly a dune is between the campsite and the sea, which breaks the wind.
The uphill sections on the second day are not that bad if you have ever walked in the Blue Mountains. I found downhill to Garie beach - after 19 km and still a lot of food in the rucksack - tougher.
Enjoy! It's worth it.
Mark George Ashmore - Hiking Sydney & Surrounds
IP:149.135.146.xxx | 2013-05-06 00:12:47
Hi Matt,
I'm considering the walk, but only have a hammock. Do you know if you can swing a hammock at the campsite, or should I look at getting a tent?
As always, thanks for the site!
Greg & Mike - Glorious
IP:110.20.123.xxx | 2014-04-26 08:44:17
Did the walk 24/4/14. Relatively straightforward to the headland at South Garie the decent down was a bit hard on my hip...but the view was spectacular. Wish I had taken a snorkel and mask, as I went for a swim at the beautiful
Currarang Cove. Camped at North Era which is a beautiful campsite. Really warm evening so was able to lie out and watch the stars, fantastic electrical storm out at sea. During the night strong winds and heavy rain. Next morning on/off rain, took a wrong turn at the headland north Burning Palms and headed up the hill to the car park, then along the trail to Otford. Fantastic walk truly heaven on earth.
jason
IP:210.215.161.xxx | 2014-05-01 01:51:16
Hi All
just want to know is there any water supply in Garie beach ,near North Era camp?
regards
Jason
Anonymous - re:
IP:211.30.210.xxx | 2014-05-01 02:29:57
jason wrote:
Hi All
just want to know is there any water supply in Garie beach ,near North Era camp?
regards
Jason
Hi Jason
You can often will up at the taps are Garie Beach. After rain there are creeks flowing. The tap water is from a tank so not reliable. I would recommend treating both the tap and creek water if they are available.
Matt :)
bruce
IP:122.148.33.xxx | 2014-05-18 15:01:37
Hi,
me and my wife did this walk ,staying overnight at the nth. Era campground.
we did it in January, and it was VERY hot over the 2 days. even though there was a light sea breeze right on the cliffs, as soon as you headed inland,there wasnt a breath of wind, and it really sapped your energy. (Every creek we came across we were soaking ourselves with water ). Recommend doing it in the cooler months. or on cooler days.
But we loved this walk, fantastic scenery, the campground was great .We found the trip notes very helpful, (although we did manage to get lost for a short time amongst the cottages at era).
A great experience!
Helen
IP:122.106.179.xxx | 2014-06-11 06:50:32
Hi,
thanks for the notes and maps, my sister and I plan to do this amazing walk next Monday and stop over night at North Era. We will certainly get to Bundeena on an early ferry to make the most of the light. All the tips will help and hopefully no rain. Will let you know how it goes.
Fizdale
IP:110.20.99.xxx | 2014-09-26 05:29:03
Hi,
Just wondering if it's free to camp overnight at North Era?
Hans - re:
IP:27.32.0.xxx | 2014-09-28 10:43:13
Fizdale wrote:
Hi,
Just wondering if it's free to camp overnight at North Era?
It is $10 per site for 2 adults.
You can book online through http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/Royal-National-Park/north-era-campground/camping
Davros - Garrawarra Farm distance
IP:121.211.65.xxx | 2014-11-30 11:18:35
I led a large party of Chinese from Bundeena (first ferry), aiming to get to Otford for the 7.15 train. Everything was good - plenty of stops for snacks and swims... and, as usual, I took them up from South Era to Garawarra Farm for the final push to Otford... this is a good option IMHO as a few people like a forest walk, especially after 20 km of relentless heath and sandstone.
The only bad thing was the confusion caused by the sign at the farm... telling us that Otford is 8 km. IT ISN"T. It is 5.5 km, even allowing for twists and turns. This overestimate caused great consternation in my group (despite my assertions to the contrary) as I had left about 90 min to get to the station... as a result a bit of panic set in and this greatly reduced the enjoyment of the day. In the end, of course, we got to the station 30 min early and missed some good stop-offs along the way.... grrrr! Why the NPWS do that, I don't know...
Nathan - Bundeena to Ottford
IP:163.47.138.xxx | 2015-10-11 23:26:26
Me and two friends just completed the walk from Bundeena to Ottford and my advise for beginners would be to do this walk over 3 days instead of 2. The first day is not hard, mostly flat or very gradual climbs... the problem is you have a huge distance to over on the first day to get to the camping grounds. I think it would have been better if we had broken the first day into 2 days and had more time to enjoy the swimming spots, lookouts and beaches.
The last day going up the hill to Ottford was really tough, we expected there to be running water on the way so ventured off on near empty water supply... there was no water and we ended up going the whole day with barely nothing to drink. FILL UP before you leave the camp ground!
Another idea our group had was to maybe get a friend to help you park your car in the carpark at the camping ground with all your camping gear and food in it before you begin the treck so you dont have to carry your tent food etc. Although the first day is relativity easy its still rather long and even a moderately heavy backpack begins to take its toll after 8 hours of hiking.
I would definetly do this treck again but think i would try to do it over 3 days with more breaks and play time. Also I would fill up when ever you come across water. The last treck to ottford has no water at all!
Hiking near Sydney 
Track: Hard
10 km
You can phone 131500 (the transport info line) for upto date running time info
There is free parking available.
Check out the facilities at 
not too much longer now :)