A day trip to the Royal National Park from Sydney: What to see, eat & do

Morning 

Get an early start this morning to make the most of your day in the Royal National Park. Established in 1879, it’s the world’s second oldest national park and covers more than 150 square kilometres on the southern edge of Sydney. Begin in Bundeena, a pretty seaside village on the northern side of the park. Grab coffee and breakfast at Earth Thingz and pick up supplies for lunch from the supermarket – you won’t find anywhere to eat in the park itself. 

Gunyah Beach, Bundeena

The Coast Track is a popular walk that runs for 26 kilometres through the length of the park. Today, you can tackle the six-kilometre section between Bundeena and Little Marley Beach. This walk takes around three hours return and you’ll pass by one of the park’s most famous sights, Wedding Cake Rock, as well as the dramatic Waterrun and picturesque Balconies. If you’re walking in winter, keep an eye out for whales. 

Wedding Cake Rock, Royal National Park - Credit: DPIE

Afternoon  

After a morning of exertion, it’s time to relax. The Royal National Park is dotted with beautiful beaches. Wattamolla is the most popular, with both an ocean beach and a calm lagoon that’s perfect for families. It’s also a lovely spot to enjoy a picnic or a barbecue. Garie Beach is further south and has good waves for surfing, as well as a lush backdrop of rainforest, ferns and cabbage tree palms. 

Wattamolla Beach, Royal National Park - Credit: Dee Kramer Photography

Later, drive to the Audley Boat Shed. Sitting right on the edge of the water, it’s been operating since 1893. Hire a kayak and paddle the calm waters of the Hacking River or Kangaroo Creek. Look out for kingfishers diving for their dinner, turtles and lace monitors swimming past, and maybe even koalas in the trees above. 

Audley Boatshed, Royal National Park

Evening 

Travel to the southern end of the park for sunset at Stanwell Tops lookout. The hill offers spectacular views south along the coast and promises a stellar sunset. You may also see hang gliders leaping from the peak – the sharp ride of the hills create strong air currents that make it one of the most popular hang gliding spots in the state. 

Paragliding, Stanwell Tops

Cap off a day of adventure by driving south across the Sea Cliff Bridge, which juts out over the ocean, then enjoy dinner at the famous Scarborough Hotel. With a sprawling beer garden set right on the cliffs, it’s the perfect place to toast a day out in the Royal National Park. 

Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton