Royal National Park Coastal Track: Figure Eight Pools to Garie

If you dream of wild ocean panoramas, ancient sandstone cliffs, secret pools carved by nature, and a surf-washed beach framed by dramatic headlands, the Figure Eight Pools to Garie section of the Royal National Park Coastal Track delivers in spades. Just south of Sydney, this section captures the best of the coast walk in a single compelling day - a photogenic rock platform at Figure Eight, the lush shade of Palm Jungle, high clifftop views over thunderous surf, and a soft-sand finish on beautiful Garie Beach.

Whether you are piecing together the full Otford to Bundeena Coastal Track or seeking a memorable half day adventure, this is the part that will have you planning your next trip before your boots are even off. Below you will find a complete guide to timing, tides, safety, access, step-by-step route notes, and insider tips to help you walk it well.

Why this section of the Royal National Park Coastal Track is unmissable

• Variety in one hike - rock platforms, rainforest, heath, headlands, and beach
• Signature sight - the internationally known Figure Eight Pools
• Big coastal drama - crashing Pacific swells, soaring sea cliffs, and sweeping bays
• Rewarding finish - cooling swim and golden sand at Garie Beach
• Feels wild yet close to Sydney - a perfect day escape

This is the Coastal Track at its most cinematic. It is also one that demands respect, especially at Figure Eight Pools. Read the safety section carefully, plan around tide and swell, and you will be set for an unforgettable day.

Quick facts

• Location: Royal National Park, south of Sydney, New South Wales
• Section: Figure Eight Pools to Garie Beach on the Coastal Track
• Distance: approximately 6 to 7 kilometres one way, depending on exact route out of Figure Eight Pools and start point on Burning Palms beach
• Time: 2 to 3.5 hours one way for most walkers, plus extra time for photos and swims
• Elevation: rolling climbs with steps in Palm Jungle and near Garie Head, expect several short but solid ascents
• Grade: moderate, with uneven footing, slippery sections, and cliff exposure in places
• Trail surface: rock platform, sand, boardwalk, dirt track with roots and rocks, wooden stairs
• Best for: fit walkers, keen photographers, experienced coastal hikers
• Not suitable for: prams, wheelchairs, or anyone with unstable footing
• Closest access: Burning Palms via Garawarra Farm car park, or Garie Beach car park
• Park fees: vehicle entry fees apply in parts of Royal National Park, check current NPWS advice

Planning your day

A little planning goes a long way with this walk. Figure Eight Pools is only safely visited at low tide and during calm swell. Palm Jungle can be slick after rain. Garie is a surf beach with strong rips. Time your start to align with ocean conditions and you will travel smarter and safer.

Best time of year

• Autumn and spring offer mild temperatures and long light.
• Winter brings crisp air, clear views, and whale migration. Humpbacks are often visible from the cliffs between May and November.
• Summer has sparkling seas and warm water for a post-hike swim, but also strong sun and heat. Start early, carry extra water, and avoid the hottest part of the day.

Tide and swell for Figure Eight Pools

• Safe access is typically within about 2 hours either side of low tide, ideally at dead low. Always check tide times for Burning Palms or nearby Cronulla tables.
• Swell matters as much as tide. Even at low tide, large or powerful swell can swamp the rock platform. A small, calm swell window is essential.
• If conditions are not right, skip the pools and stick to the track. The hike is still magnificent without stepping onto the rock platform.

Fitness and difficulty

• Expect uneven, sometimes slippery footing. There are steps, short climbs, and sandy stretches that tire the calves.
• Palm Jungle is shaded and often damp, with roots and rocks underfoot.
• Anyone comfortable with moderate hikes of 2 to 3 hours should enjoy the challenge, provided they take their time.

Fees, bookings, and permits

• Vehicle entry fees apply at Garie Beach car park and other locations in Royal National Park. Pay at meters or via the NSW Park’nPay app where available.
• No booking is required to day walk the Coastal Track.
• Camping at nearby North Era requires advance booking through NSW National Parks. There is no camping at Burning Palms or Garie Beach.
• Drones require a permit in NSW national parks. Recreational drone use is not allowed without written approval.

Facilities

• Garie Beach: toilets, picnic tables, and limited shade. A kiosk has operated intermittently in the past, so bring your own food and water.
• Burning Palms: surf club and informal picnic spots on grass behind the beach. No cafe or shops.
• Water: carry all you need. Do not rely on taps along this section.
• Mobile signal: patchy in gullies and near the pools. More reliable on headlands.

Getting there

You can walk this section from either direction. Many walkers access Figure Eight Pools from Garawarra Farm car park above Burning Palms, then continue north to Garie. Others park at Garie and walk south through Palm Jungle to Burning Palms, with a side trip to the pools if conditions allow.

Arriving by car

• Garawarra Farm car park: the main access for Burning Palms and Figure Eight Pools. It is reached via a sealed road near Helensburgh and Otford. From the car park, a well marked track descends through coastal forest to Burning Palms in around 45 to 60 minutes, then it is a further walk to the pools.
• Garie Beach car park: accessed via a steep sealed road from the park interior. There is a day use fee. From the car park, the Coastal Track leads south to North Garie Head and Palm Jungle. This is a great finish point for a one way walk.
• Parking fills quickly on sunny weekends. Arrive early.

Public transport

• Train to Otford or Helensburgh, then walk in. From Otford Station, it is possible to join the Coastal Track via Otford Lookout and walk north. From Helensburgh, experienced walkers can reach Garawarra Farm on foot. Allow extra time and carry a map or offline navigation.
• Rideshare and local taxis may service Helensburgh and Otford on weekends. Book ahead for pick up at trailheads, as phone reception is inconsistent.

Track notes: Figure Eight Pools to Garie, step by step

The key to a smooth day is sequencing. Many hikers time it so they reach Figure Eight Pools at or near low tide, then begin the hike north to Garie while the day is still cool. The notes below assume you are starting at Figure Eight Pools and finishing at Garie Beach. Reverse the steps if starting from Garie.

From Figure Eight Pools to Burning Palms

• From the pools, leave the rock platform before the tide turns. The safest exit is the same way you came in, keeping well clear of any wave wash.
• Follow the worn path near the base of the cliff until you regain the beach at Burning Palms. The sand walk is scenic with views to the grassy headlands and surf.
• If the beach is not passable due to surf, use the higher track along the back of the dunes. Respect private cabins and stay on the public path.

Expect around 20 to 30 minutes from the pools to the main part of Burning Palms, depending on conditions and your pace.

Burning Palms to Palm Jungle

• At the northern end of Burning Palms, pick up the Coastal Track where it climbs onto the headland. Signage points to the Coast Walk or Garie.
• The path becomes shaded as you enter Palm Jungle, a rare pocket of coastal rainforest with cabbage tree palms, ferns, and vines.
• This section is narrow and can be muddy, especially after rain. Boardwalks assist in places, but you will still negotiate roots and slick rocks. Take your time.

This is one of the most atmospheric parts of the entire Royal National Park Coastal Track, cool and green with birdsong, the ocean audible just beyond the trees.

Palm Jungle to North Garie Head

• As you leave the jungle, the vegetation opens into coastal heath and tea tree. The track undulates along the cliff edge with dramatic views south to Era and Burning Palms, and north toward the long arc of Garie Beach.
• Keep a safe distance from cliff edges. The sandstone is layered and can be undercut in places.
• Whales are often seen in season. Carry binoculars if you enjoy wildlife watching.

From the northern edge of Palm Jungle, a well formed path continues to North Garie Head. The cliffs here are photogenic, with a textured sandstone palette of creams, rusts, and pinks.

Descent to Garie Beach

• From North Garie Head, the track skirts the cliff, then begins a stepped descent on formed paths toward the northern end of Garie Beach.
• The sand appears suddenly, a pale ribbon beneath the headland with clean green water and rolling surf.
• At the beach, you can stroll south along the shoreline, take a cautious swim between any lifesaving flags in season, or continue across the sand to the car park and facilities.

The descent is straightforward, but watch your footing on sand-covered steps. If you have arranged a car shuttle, the Garie car park is your finish. If returning to Garawarra Farm, you can climb back onto the headland and connect to inland tracks on Garawarra Ridge for a scenic loop.

Optional detours

• North Garie Head viewpoint: a few short side paths reveal outstanding cliff and beach views. Stay behind barriers and keep well clear of edges.
• Era Track link: experienced walkers can build a loop via Garawarra Ridge Track and Era, returning to Garawarra Farm. This is a full day option.
• Wattamolla extension: if you have time and energy, continue north from Garie toward Wattamolla. It is a longer day but rewards with quiet coves and more classic cliff walking.

Safety at Figure Eight Pools

Figure Eight Pools is beautiful and it can be dangerous. The rock platform is exposed to the full force of the ocean. There have been serious injuries and rescues here. Treat it with absolute respect.

• Only visit at low tide and during small swell. Even then, rogue waves can occur.
• Never turn your back on the sea. Watch the sets for a full few minutes before stepping on the platform.
• Wear sturdy, grippy shoes. The rock is often slimy with algae.
• Do not attempt to cross wet, wave-washed sections. If waves are breaking over the platform, do not go out.
• Avoid sitting or standing on the edges of pools. They are smooth, rounded, and slippery.
• Leave as soon as the tide begins to rise. Your exit route can be cut off quickly.
• If in doubt, skip the pools. The Coastal Track and Garie Beach are reason enough to be here.

What to pack

• Footwear: lightweight hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip
• Clothing: sun smart layers, hat, sunglasses, and a warm layer in cooler months
• Water: at least 2 litres per person in cool weather, more in summer
• Food: high energy snacks and a picnic lunch
• Navigation: offline map or GPS app, although the track is generally well marked
• First aid: blister care, bandage, antiseptic, and personal medications
• Extras: sunscreen, insect repellent, lightweight rain shell, small towel for a swim
• Optional: trekking poles for steps, binoculars for whales, camera gear

Understanding the landscape

A deeper appreciation of the Figure Eight Pools to Garie walk comes from knowing how this coast was shaped and who has lived here for countless generations.

Geology and the famous figure eight shape

• The cliffs and platforms are mostly Hawkesbury sandstone, a coarse grained sedimentary rock laid down in ancient river systems.
• Over millions of years, wave action has exploited joints and bedding planes, scouring out circular depressions. Some intersect to create the figure eight shape that gave the pools their name.
• The platform is an active environment. New pools may form and familiar ones can change. Treat it as a living landscape.

Flora and fauna

• Palm Jungle shelters cabbage tree palms, lilly pilly, ferns, and vines. It is a moist enclave thanks to ocean mists and shaded gullies.
• The heathlands above Garie Head bloom with wildflowers in spring. Look for banksias, grevilleas, and flannel flowers.
• Birdlife is diverse. You may hear whipbirds in the jungle, see sea eagles soaring on cliff thermals, and catch the iridescent flash of a superb fairy-wren in the scrub.
• Marine life thrives in rock pools, but leave all creatures undisturbed. No collecting or handling.

Cultural significance

• The Royal National Park sits on the Country of the Dharawal people. Shell middens, rock engravings, and cultural sites occur across the park.
• Treat all cultural places with respect. Do not touch or disturb any artifacts. Stay on marked tracks and follow signage.

Swim, relax, and refuel at Garie Beach

Garie is one of the most beautiful surf beaches in the park. The setting is wild, with steep headlands, plumes of spray, and clean sand.

• Swimming: only swim between the flags when lifesavers are on duty, usually on peak weekends and holidays. Garie is known for strong rips.
• Facilities: toilets, picnic tables, and basic shade. There are no permanent cafes. Bring your lunch and plenty of water.
• Photography: sunrise lights the cliffs and picks out sand textures. Late afternoon sunlight creates golden tones on the beach and headlands.

If the sea is calm and you are confident in the surf, a quick dip is a perfect way to cap the hike. If conditions are rough, enjoy a barefoot beach stroll instead.

Sample itineraries

Choose an itinerary to suit the tides, your fitness, and your logistics.

Half day highlight: Figure Eight to Garie one way

• Start early and park a car at Garie. Shuttle your group to Garawarra Farm for the Burning Palms descent.
• Time your arrival at Figure Eight Pools for low tide and calm swell. Limit your time on the platform to the safest window.
• Walk from the pools back through Burning Palms, then continue through Palm Jungle to Garie. Swim, snack, and relax.
• Distance: around 6 to 7 kilometres from the pools to Garie, plus the approach from Garawarra Farm to and from the pools.

Classic loop with views

• Park at Garawarra Farm. Descend to Burning Palms, visit the pools if conditions allow, then continue to Garie.
• From Garie, climb to Garie Head and turn inland via Garawarra Ridge Track to complete a loop back to your car.
• This is a longer outing with varied scenery and a satisfying sense of journey.

Big day out: Garie to Wattamolla add on

• For strong walkers, extend north from Garie to Wattamolla. Expect another few hours on track with more beaches and cliffs.
• Arrange transport at Wattamolla or return to Garie the same way.

Photography tips

• Tide timing: for Figure Eight Pools, low tide reveals shapes and reflections. Overcast light can be kinder for pool detail and reduces glare.
• Safety first: never back up toward the edge while framing that perfect shot.
• Golden hour: early and late light gives depth to the sandstone and softness to the surf.
• Long lenses: great for whale breaches and sea birds riding thermals.
• Drones: require a permit from NSW National Parks. Do not launch without approval.

Guided tours and local operators

If you prefer to hike with a guide, several operators run Figure Eight Pools and Royal National Park Coastal Track experiences from Sydney. A reputable guide will monitor tide and swell, choose safe timings, and handle logistics. This is an excellent option if you are new to coastal hiking or would like deeper insights into natural and cultural history.

Responsible travel and Leave No Trace

• Stay on marked tracks to protect fragile vegetation and for your own safety.
• Take all rubbish out with you, including food scraps.
• Do not disturb wildlife. Observe rock pool life without touching.
• Respect private cabins at Burning Palms by keeping to public paths.
• Fires are not permitted on beaches or in the park except in designated facilities.
• Dogs and pets are not allowed in Royal National Park.

Frequently asked questions

Is Figure Eight Pools safe?

It can be, if and only if you go at low tide during small swell and exercise extreme caution. Many rescues occur when people attempt it at the wrong time or underestimate the ocean. If in doubt, skip the platform and enjoy the Coastal Track.

How long does it take from Figure Eight Pools to Garie?

Most walkers take 2 to 3.5 hours one way from the pools to Garie, not including time at the pools themselves. Pace, photos, and conditions make a difference. Add the approach time from your car park.

Do I need to book?

No booking is required for day walking. If you plan to camp at North Era or elsewhere, you must book through NSW National Parks in advance.

Can I bring my dog?

No. Dogs and all pets are not permitted in Royal National Park.

Is there mobile coverage?

Patchy. You may get reception on headlands and at Garie Beach, but expect black spots in gullies, Palm Jungle, and near the rock platforms.

What about kids?

Fit, outdoorsy kids with hiking experience may enjoy the track. Figure Eight Pools is not suitable for children unless the ocean is very calm and you maintain strict supervision. The platform is slippery and hazardous.

Are there leeches?

After rain, expect leeches in Palm Jungle. Wear long socks, tuck in pants, and have salt or repellent handy. They are more nuisance than danger.

Where can I swim safely?

Only between the flags at Garie when lifesavers are on duty. The surf can be powerful with rips. Do not swim at Figure Eight Pools, the rock edges are slippery and waves unpredictable.

What if the tide is not right for Figure Eight Pools?

Enjoy the Burning Palms beach and the Coastal Track anyway. The cliff top views, Palm Jungle, and Garie Beach make this a fantastic hike even without stepping onto the rock platform.

Practical navigation tips

• The Coastal Track is well signposted. Look for NPWS markers that point to Coast Walk, Burning Palms, or Garie.
• In Palm Jungle, slippery sections can slow you down. Keep a steady rhythm and use handrails where provided.
• On cliff edges and headlands, stay on the inland side of the path, avoid shortcuts that cut close to the rim, and obey any warning signs.

Weather and seasonal notes

• Summer: start early to beat heat. Carry extra water and electrolytes.
• Autumn: calm seas are common, making it a good choice for Figure Eight Pools with the right tide.
• Winter: crisp air and clear light. Pack a warm layer and be mindful of short daylight hours.
• Spring: wildflowers in the heath and active birdlife. Increase your snake awareness in warmer months.

Always check the latest alerts on the NSW National Parks website. Tracks can close after storms or heavy seas, and specific warnings for Figure Eight Pools may be in place.

A note on sustainability and community

The cabins at Burning Palms form part of a historic coastal community. These are privately leased within the national park. Please respect residents’ privacy by staying on the public path, keeping noise low, and not photographing inside cabin areas.

The sales pitch you can believe in

If you are weighing up which slice of the Royal National Park Coastal Track to hike, choose this one. It packs in the natural drama visitors travel across the world to see, yet it is attainable in a single, richly satisfying day. You get the dream shot of Figure Eight Pools if conditions align, a journey through the rare Palm Jungle, big sky views from North Garie Head, and the simple pleasure of finishing on a broad golden beach. Add a picnic, a cautious swim, and a shoe-off stroll in the foam, and you have the kind of day that refuels the soul.

Conclusion

The Figure Eight Pools to Garie section of the Royal National Park Coastal Track is where the South Coast shows off. It is beautiful, photogenic, and at times challenging, a true taste of wild coastline within an hour or so of central Sydney. Plan around tide and swell, choose a fair weather day, and bring the right gear. Step lightly, respect the ocean, and you will be rewarded with a day of contrasts - jungle shade and sunlit cliffs, still rock pools and thundering surf, intimate detail and horizon wide views.

Ready to go further next time. From Garie you can push north toward Wattamolla or link the entire Otford to Bundeena trail. For now, enjoy the afterglow of a day well spent in Royal National Park, and keep that memory of blue pools and golden sand locked in for when city life gets loud again.