Allambie Flat
Picturesque riverside Allambie Flat is ideal for the family picnic or BBQ. Row boats, canoes and paddle bikes are available for hire from the adjacent boatshed.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, stillwater canoeing/kayaking, dinghy/row boat
Location:
shown on Audley map
Facilities: picnic tables, gas/electric barbecues (free), flush toilets, drinking water
Bola Creek picnic area
Location:
shown on Forest Island - Garie Beach - Otford map
Facilities: picnic tables
Bonnie Vale picnic area
For a great day of water-based fun for all the family, pack the car and make your way to Bonnie Vale picnic area. With loads of options for all, everyone will feel like they’re on holiday for a day.
The kids will love swimming and liloing in the tranquil waters of Cabbage Tree Basin, and on weekends you can hire a canoe and paddle the waterways of Port Hacking, near Bundeena. There’s great fishing at nearby Jibbon Beach and even gas barbecues so you can cook up the catch of the day.
After a relaxing day, it could be hard to leave. If you want to make a weekend of it, stay overnight at Bonnie Vale campground. However, it’s a very popular spot and it's best to book in advance.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching, fishing, swimming
Getting there: Bonnie Vale picnic area is in the Bundeena precinct of Royal National Park. To get there:
- Drive from the Loftus entrance towards Bundeena
- Turn left into Bundeena Drive and head towards Bundeena
- Turn left into Sea Breeze Lane and follow the signs
Alternatively, take the ferry from Cronulla to Bundeena wharf. It’s a 15 minute walk along a track to the entrance.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Opening hours: Bonnie Vale picnic area is:
- open 6am – 8:30pm (Monday – Sunday)
- closed on Christmas Day
Facilities: picnic tables, gas/electric barbecues (free), carpark, drinking water, flush toilets, trackhead/access point
Bungoona lookout
Wheelchair access: easy
A concete path of approximately 500m suitable for wheelchairs, strollers and children's bicyles.
Bungoona Path meanders along the ridgetop to a scenic lookout over the Hacking River.
Activities: sightseeing, day walking, picnics and barbecues
Location:
shown on Audley map
Currawong Flat picnic area
Royal National Park has been a bush escape for Sydney-siders for over 120 years, so when it’s time for some family timeout, head to this popular riverside picnic spot in Audley precinct. Not far from Royal National Park Visitor Centre, Currwawong Flat picnic area is a great spot to while away a relaxing day, or an ideal pit-stop on a day trip whilst exploring this famous park.
Pick your spot under the shade of the she-oaks, spark up a barbecue and tuck into a delicious lunch as you soak up the scenic river views. Bring your own canoe, or hire one from the famous Audley Weir boat hire, for a paddle along the tranquil waters of this picturesque waterway.
If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a large network of walking tracks throughout the park. Nearby Uloola walking track takes in the surrounding heathlands. Or if you’re feeling indulgent, it’s only a short stroll to Weir Cafe for a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Activities: day walking, picnics and barbecues, swimming, birdwatching
Location:
shown on Audley map
Getting there: Currawong Flat picnic area is in the Audley precinct of Royal National Park. To get there from Audley, take Farnell Avenue and follow the signs.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, gas/electric barbecues (free), flush toilets, drinking water, carpark, trackhead/access point
Garie Beach picnic area
You’ll love this quick holiday fix just an hour or so from Sydney. So pack a picnic, herd up the clan and get down there nice and early to grab a great spot at Garie Beach, in the southern end of Royal National Park.
Head to the beach for a spot of whale watching in the winter or for the feel of warm salt water on your skin, surf the waves in the warmer months. If you’re feeling lucky, try your hand at some beach fishing. It’s an ideal spot for birdwatching, so bring the binoculars for a chance to glimpse an albatross, sea eagle, and the rarer peregrine falcon as they cruise on the updraft from coastal breezes.
After lunch, explore the rainforest gullies around the beach where cabbage tree palms and ferns provide a shady spot.
Activities: walking, surfing, swimming, fishing, birdwatching, whale watching, picnicking, playing and socialising
Location:
shown on Forest Island - Garie Beach - Otford map
Getting there: Garie Beach picnic area is in the southern section of Royal National Park. To get there from Waterfall train station:
- Follow McKell Avenue to the end
- Turn left into Sir Bertram Stevens Drive
- Drive for approximately 3km and follow the signs to Garie Beach
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, flush toilets, cold showers, cafe/kiosk, carpark
Events, activities and alerts at this location
| Commercial activity | Sydney Coast Walks  Sydney Coast Walks are the Sydney walking people. With some of the city's best natural beauty only accessible on foot, Sydney Coast Walks provides expertly guided half day, full day and overnight hiking adventures through Sydney Harbour and Royal National Parks, enabling guests to reconnect with nature in Australia's largest city. Small groups, maximum 12 guests, for a better walking experience.
Sydney Harbour National Park Walking Tours
Royal National Park Walking Tours
- Jibbon Aboriginal Tour Learn the traditions of the Dharawal Aboriginal people, view thousand-year-old rock carvings and listen to Dreaming stories.
- Marley Explore Royal's majestic sandstone coastline on a full day walk.
- Wattamolla (Coast Track) Discover awe-inspiring views and fascinating history as you hike the iconic Coast Track. Enjoy a fully catered and supported camping experience.
When: year-round. Bookings essential. More info: Sydney Coast Walks, Phone: 02 8521 7423 (international +612 8521 7423) | As required |
Governor Game lookout
If you'd love a coastal experience without all the sand then this scenic lookout has all the bases covered. Governor Game lookout is a great spot for a break on a car tour of Royal National Park. It offers brilliant coastal views and lovely heathlands, is an ideal spot for birdwatching, and a great place for whale watching during the migratory season.
Inhale the fresh ocean breezes as you step out onto this landmark. The surrounding heathland erupts with a dazzling display of colour in spring; it’s impossible to ignore the heady scent of boronia and hakea. Look for gymea lillies with its striking single red flower, whilst crimson rosellas, lorikeets, and yellow-tailed cockatoos are often seen flitting through the bush.
It’s a great spot to get your bearings or have a quick bite. However, if you’re keen to get amongst it, head down to nearby Garie Beach picnic area for swimming and a barbecue.
Activities: sightseeing, picnics and barbecues, whale watching
Location:
shown on Forest Island - Garie Beach - Otford map
Getting there: Governor Game lookout is in the southern section of Royal National Park. To get there from Waterfall train station:
- Follow McKell Avenue to the end
- Turn left into Sir Bertram Stevens Drive
- Drive for approximately 3km and follow the signs to Garie Beach
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, carpark, lookout
Gunjulla Flat picnic area
This is a beautiful spot for a quick bite to eat or a stretch of the legs before exploring Australia’s oldest national park, near Waterfall. Gunjulla Flat picnic area, on the western edge of Royal National Park, is a quick and easy pit stop on a day trip or car tour of the park.
Pull up and lay out a picnic spread on one of the tables and enjoy a rustic bush setting. It’s an ideal spot for a breather while road cycling around the park, or a great place if prepping your gear for a day exploring the hinterland. It’s only a short drive along McKell Avenue to Couranga walking track or Forest walking track.
The surrounding heath attracts birds such as fantail cuckoos, pigeons and quails. In the spring, when the heath erupts with wildflowers, you might see honey eaters and wattlebirds feeding on the banksias.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching
Location:
shown on Forest Island - Garie Beach - Otford map
Getting there: Gunjulla Flat picnic area is in the Waterfall precinct of Royal National Park. To get there from Waterfall Station, follow McKell Avenue for approximately 1.5km and follow the signs.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, carpark
Ironbark Flat picnic area
Wheelchair access: easy
This area is fully wheelchair accessible
- Royal National Park Visitor Centre, Weir Cafe, and the pavilion are all accessed via a level concrete path from Triangle carpark.
- The Audley Room is accessible from the parking area at the front of the Dancehall on Sir Bertram Stevens Drive
When it’s time for a weekend getaway, pack the car and gather the family for a day trip to Ironbark Flat picnic area in Royal National Park. Near the picturesque Audley Weir, this pretty spot is wheelchair accessible from Weir Cafe and Royal National Park Visitor Centre.
When you arrive, you’ll know why you’re in one of Sydney’s most popular weekend destinations. On the peaceful banks of scenic Hacking River, you’ll feel the stresses of the week fall away. Spark up a barbecue and cook up a feast while the kids play on the big grassy areas.
After lunch there’s the option to hire canoes and go paddling, stretch your legs on Uloola walking track, or check out the views from Bungoona lookout. If all you want is relaxation, simply lie back in the shade and soak up the tranquillity of this riverside setting.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching
Location:
shown on Audley map
Getting there: Ironbark Flat picnic area is in the Audley precinct of Royal National Park. To get there, drive through Audley and follow the signs to the visitor centre.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, gas/electric barbecues (free), trackhead/access point
Pool Flat picnic area
Pool Flat picnic area offers a delightful riverside spot, ideal for a family day out in the popular Audley Weir area. Only an hour from the centre of Sydney, you’ll feel like you and the family are on holiday, even if it’s only for an afternoon.
The kids will love swimming in the tranquil waters of Hacking River, and you’ll love the relaxed setting with the easy option for a delicious lunch or snack at nearby Weir Cafe. If you’re tempted to get out on the water, hire a canoe or two at Audley Boatshed for a paddle along the river.
Just down river from Royal National Park Visitor Centre, it’s a great opportunity to pick up some brochures about walks and other lovely spots to explore in Royal National Park.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching
Location:
shown on Audley map
Getting there: Pool Flat picnic area is in the Audley precinct of Royal National Park. To get there, take Farnell Avenue to Audley then follow the signs.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, flush toilets, carpark
Red Cedar Flat picnic area
Near Otford and in the southern section of Royal National Park, rustic Red Cedar Flat picnic area is an ideal no-fuss lunch spot. Whether you’re on a leisurely car tour of the park, or prepping for an adventure, you’ll be able to pull up and park easily. It’s also an easy spot to check your gear and have a quick bite before heading off on a road cycling tour, or stepping out on one of the many walking tracks on offer in the park.
Arriving at the picnic spot, stretch your legs on a couple of small loop walks nearby. Unpack a picnic on the tables, and enjoy lunch, followed by a bit of birdwatching.
If you’re keen to explore further, try Governor Game lookout in the north, or a stop at nearby Otford lookout – it’s well worth it for spectacular views up and down the coast. If you’re in need of a refreshing swim, head to Garie Beach.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching
Location:
shown on Forest Island - Garie Beach - Otford map
Getting there: Red Cedar Flat picnic area is in the southern precinct of Royal National Park. To get there drive along Lady Wakehurst Drive from Otford for approximately 4km.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: carpark, picnic tables
Reids Flat picnic area
If you’re looking to escape the city for a relaxing day near the river, head to picturesque Reids Flat picnic area, near Audley. In the northern section of Royal National Park, this tucked away spot has scenic river views, superb for a family day out.
The still waters are excellent for swimming and paddling, so bring your own kayak for a fun-filled day celebrating the watery elements. The kids will love canoeing and liloing Hacking River. When it’s time for lunch, spark up a free gas barbecue and cook up a feast, then enjoy it on a rug or one of the nearby picnic tables.
While away a peaceful afternoon on the shady riverbank, or if you’re feeling energetic, set out on one of the nearby walking tracks. On your way home, drop in to Weir Cafe for a delicious afternoon treat.
Activities: stillwater canoeing/kayaking, picnics and barbecues, day walking, birdwatching, fishing
Location:
shown on Audley map
Getting there: Reids Flat picnic area is in the Audley precinct of Royal National Park. To get there, follow Farnell Avenue towards Audley, turn left just before the causeway and follow the signs.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, gas/electric barbecues (free), flush toilets, drinking water, carpark, trackhead/access point
Royal National Park Visitor Centre
Wheelchair access: easy
This area is fully wheelchair accessible.
- The visitor centre, Weir Cafe and pavillion are accessible via a concrete pathway from Triangle carpark (on the southern side of the weir, adjacent to the toilet facilities).
- The Audley Room is accessible from the parking area at the front of the dancehall on Sir Bertram Stevens Drive.
Call into the newly-refurbished Royal National Park Visitor Centre, located on the ground floor of the Audley dancehall. Here you can pick up a Royal National Park map and find more information to help you make the most of your visit.
Not sure which walk to take? The centre can provide a list of all the walking tracks in the park – from the easy to the more challenging – along with details of other trails, routes and personal recommendations.
Plus, with various arts and crafts for sale, Royal National Park Visitor Centre is also the place to go if you’d like to take home a souvenir of your visit.
Activities: paddling, picnics and barbecues, walking
Location:
shown on Audley map
Getting there: On entering Royal National Park:
- from Farnell Avenue at Loftus, follow Audley Road down to the Hacking River, the visitor centre is on Lady Carrington Drive just after crossing the weir
- from McKell Avenue at Waterfall, follow Sir Bertram Stevens Drive all the way, the visitor centre is the last building on the left before crossing the weir
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Opening hours: 8.30am-4:30pm daily (closed Christmas Day)
Facilities: picnic tables, gas/electric barbecues, flush toilets, drinking water
Contact:
Royal National Park visitor centre, Phone: 02 9542 0648
Upper Causeway picnic area
Upper Causeway picnic area is a great spot for a quick bite to eat before setting out on a walk along the delightful Forest path. It’s also a great place to enjoy the lush forests of the hinterland of Australia’s oldest park. You’ll find Upper Causeway picnic area at the junction of McKell Avenue and Lake Wakehurst Drive in the southern precinct of Royal National Park, near Waterfall.
Unpack the picnic hamper amid the lush rainforest and towering Sydney redgums that fringe this scenic picnic spot. If you’re into road cycling, it’s a great pit stop for a bite to eat and a bit of road-side bicycle maintenance before jumping on the saddle and exploring the park with pedal power.
Continue on towards the coast to Garie Beach picnic area for a swim or check out the views at Governor Game lookout.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching
Location:
shown on Forest Island - Garie Beach - Otford map
Getting there: Upper Causeway picnic area is in the Waterfall precinct of Royal National Park. To get there, follow McKell Avenue from behind Waterfall Train Station to the junction with Lady Wakehurst Drive.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: carpark, picnic tables
Warumbul picnic area
For a secluded bush picnic beside the pretty waterways of South West Arm, try the short walk to Warumbul picnic area in the northern section of Royal National Park, past Audley. You’ll feel a long way from the hustle and bustle beside the tranquil shores of Port Hacking.
It’s a short walk to this lovely bush setting and if you’re feeling energetic and have a bike, why not cycle in along the firetrail? Unpack a picnic at one of the tables and enjoy a relaxing lunch as you soak in the pretty views across the water to Gooseberry Bay and Costens Point.
After lunch, lie back and listen to the birds or explore the shoreline. It’s easy to while away a relaxing afternoon in this tranquil setting. On the way home, you might be tempted to stop by the Weir Cafe for a delicious coffee and cake.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching
Location:
shown on park map
Getting there: Warumbul picnic area is in the Port Hacking precinct of Royal National Park. To get there:
- Follow Farnell Avenue past Audley for approximately 2km
- Turn left in Warumbul Road and drive for approximately 3km
Road access: Unsealed road/trail - no motor vehicle access.
Facilities: picnic tables, flush toilets, drinking water, carpark
Waterfall Flat picnic area
Waterfall Flat picnic area could be your first port of call on a day trip to Royal National Park. Near Waterfall, it’s also a great spot for getting the bikes out ready for a cycle tour, or a perfect spot to pull in for a bush picnic, just off Princes Highway.
Unpack a picnic on the tables and enjoy a quick bite with bushland views. The large grassy areas are an ideal spot for the kids to have a run around on a quick pit stop before exploring the park.
Keep your eyes peeled for birds and wildlife as the surrounding heath attracts nectar loving birds such as the lewins honey eater and wattlebirds. For a nearby walk to enjoy more of the park, check out Couranga walking track.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching
Location:
shown on Forest Island - Garie Beach - Otford map
Getting there: Waterfall Flat picnic area is in the Waterfall precinct of Royal National Park. To get there from Waterfall Station, follow McKell Avenue for approximately 1km and follow the signs.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: carpark, picnic tables
Wattamolla picnic area
When you’re pining for the feel of sand between your toes, take the family and head to Wattamolla picnic area in Royal National Park. With loads of options to keep everyone happy, this is a popular place to base yourself while you’re exploring the park.
The kids will love the calm waters of the lagoon for snorkelling, swimming and liloing. Unpack a picnic under the shade of the cabbage tree palms and do some serious unwinding, or head to the beach for a spot of fishing.
After enjoying a barbecue lunch, go for a walk along one of the beach tracks, with a prize for the first to see a sea eagle or oystercatcher.
Activities: walking, swimming, picnics and barbecues, fishing, birdwatching, whale watching
Location:
shown on park map
Getting there: Wattamolla picnic area is in the eastern section of Royal National Park. To get there from Audley:
- Follow Sir Bertram Stevens Drive for approximately 11km
- Turn left onto Wattamolla Road 200m past the Bundeena turn off
- Drive along Wattamolla road for approximately 4km
To get there by car from Waterfall train station:
- Follow McKell Avenue to the end of the road
- Turn left into Sir Steven Bertram Road
- Drive for approximately 9km
- Turn left into Wattamolla Road and drive for approximately 5km
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, gas/electric barbecues (free), carpark, flush toilets, trackhead/access point
Events, activities and alerts at this location
| Commercial activity | Sydney Coast Walks Sydney Coast Walks are the Sydney walking people. With some of the city's best natural beauty only accessible on foot, Sydney Coast Walks provides expertly guided half day, full day and overnight hiking adventures through Sydney Harbour and Royal National Parks, enabling guests to reconnect with nature in Australia's largest city. Small groups, maximum 12 guests, for a better walking experience.
Sydney Harbour National Park Walking Tours
Royal National Park Walking Tours
- Jibbon Aboriginal Tour Learn the traditions of the Dharawal Aboriginal people, view thousand-year-old rock carvings and listen to Dreaming stories.
- Marley Explore Royal's majestic sandstone coastline on a full day walk.
- Wattamolla (Coast Track) Discover awe-inspiring views and fascinating history as you hike the iconic Coast Track. Enjoy a fully catered and supported camping experience.
When: year-round. Bookings essential. More info: Sydney Coast Walks, Phone: 02 8521 7423 (international +612 8521 7423) | As required |
Wattle Forest picnic area
One of the more popular picnic spots in Royal National Park, Wattle Forest picnic area offers scenic water views on the banks of Hacking River, just south of Audley. Easily accessible from Sydney and Sutherland, it’s a great spot for a family day trip, with the option to relax by the river or discover the delights of the park by walking track or bicycle.
You could be tempted to while away a lazy afternoon in the shade by the river, serenaded by the cockatoos and currawongs, or join the kids for some swimming. When it’s time for lunch, spark up the barbecues and cook up a sausage feast to satisfy the hungry hoards.
If you’re inspired to explore, step out on nearby Uloola walking track or bring the mountain bikes for a great ride along picturesque Lady Carrington drive.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching, fishing, swimming
Location:
shown on Audley map
Getting there: Wattle Forest picnic area is in the Audley precinct of Royal National Park. To get there follow Farnell Avenue and take a right turn after Weir Cafe. From here, head over Varneys Bridge and follow the signs.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, flush toilets, drinking water, gas/electric barbecues (free), carpark, trackhead/access point
