Safe fishing in the park
Rock fishing is one of the most dangerous sports in Australia. To make sure your fishing experience is a safe, enjoyable one, follow these safety tips:
- Always wear a lifejacket and proper footwear
- Check tides, swell and weather conditions
- Fish with a friend – never fish alone
- Carry a mobile phone
- Never turn your back to the sea
- Always spend time watching the conditions before fishing, and constantly scan for changing conditions
- If in doubt, don’t go out!
Large waves can appear and wash over a rock-shelf without warning, sweeping anyone in the way into the sea – all rock fishermen should always wear lifejackets.
For information on rock fishing safety in languages other than English, visit the SafeFishing website. For fishing and other water safety information visit the watersafety website.
Summer holiday planning
During the summer period this park is very popular, especially on weekends and public holidays.
On these busy days many areas in the park reach capacity well before lunchtime. This impacts on traffic flow which can be very heavy at times, both into and within the park.
NPWS have been working closely with the Police, RTA, the Traffic Management Centre, Roads and Maritime Services and Sutherland Shire Council to coordinate the management of traffic and minimise the impact on park visitors and residents.
To help you enjoy your visit please plan ahead and consider the following:
Roads in the Royal National Park are busy on major days as visitors arrive. Traffic delays should be expected on weekends and public holidays during summer. For up to date traffic information we recommend people go to www.livetraffic.com.
The amount of parking available in the park is limited and on busy days there may be no place to park. We encourage people to follow us on Twitter @ROYALbusy as we’ll tweet regular updates on how full the park is throughout busy days and report on any traffic control measures if/when they are applied.
Check to see if a fire ban has been declared before leaving home by going to the Rural Fire Service website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.
Check the National Park’s website at www.environment.nsw.gov.au where a prominent 'Fires, floods and park closures' notice appears when any fire or closure conditions apply to the park.
During a total fire ban:
- Private barbecues cannot be used and no fires of any kind can be lit. We provide a limited number of sealed barbecues in some locations. They will be very busy and we recommend that you pack food that does not need to be cooked.
- All walking tracks and most fire trails will be closed as bushwalking during high fire danger days can be extremely dangerous.
Think safety. If planning on a bush walk, don’t go alone. Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return. Where possible maintain mobile contact with family or friends. Take adequate drinking water. Read more about bushwalking safety.
Be aware that there is no mobile reception in many areas of Royal National Park, including Wattamolla and Garie. If planning a group picnic, have a back up plan for use in the event that your preferred location is already full. Communicate your back-up plan to everyone before leaving home.
Think about car pooling if your destination is Wattamolla, Bonnie Vale or Garie as visitor numbers in these area often exceeds available parking.
Book online for camping at Bonnie Vale, North Era and Uloola at www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/bookings
A valid entry permit must be displayed on your vehicle. These can be purchased at the visitor centre, entrance station, or on busy days at toll boxes located at Garie, Bonnie Vale and Wattamolla.
Read more about park safety.
To avoid queuing consider purchasing an annual pass ahead of time, at the Royal National Park Visitor Centre or go to www.environment.nsw.gov.au/annualpass/.
Where drinking water is available
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
Audley Room Function Centre
Wheelchair access: easy
The Audley Room is upstairs from the Royal National Park Visitor Centre and is wheelchair accessible.
When you’re looking for a venue filled with character and heritage charm, look no further than Audley Room Function Centre. Set within Royal National Park on the banks of picturesque Hacking River, it’s the perfect spot for weddings, corporate functions, and elegant high teas.
Sip champagne and nibble gourmet canapés with your guests, while the helpful staff organise the rest, allowing you to focus on the important things. Whether you’re exchanging vows or organising a social or corporate event, the natural bush setting and scenic river views from the shady verandah make it both an elegant and relaxing venue.
Check out the delicious catering options to suit every occasion online at Audley Room and create an event to remember.
Getting there: On entering Royal National Park:
- From Farnell Avenue at Loftus, follow Audley Road down to 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, and Audley Room Function Centre is the last building on the left before crossing the weir.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Opening hours: Audley Room Function Centre has variable opening times. Please call (02) 9542 6066 for further information.
Venue hire: See details
Contact:
The Audley Room, Phone: 02 9542 6066
Bonnie Vale campground
Wheelchair access: medium
This area can be accessed with some assistance
- Wheelchair accessible toilets
Bonnie Vale is a family-friendly campground located between Bundeena and Maianbar at the park’s north end. This popular riverside campground is known for its large sand spit, which makes it a great swimming spot.
Whether you choose to pitch a tent or bring your caravan, you’re sure to have a comfortable stay at Bonnie Vale. The campground is equipped with flush toilets, hot showers and drinking water, so you won’t need to rough it, although all sites are unpowered.
Go fishing at nearby Jibbon Beach, enjoy a barbecue by the sea or hike along Royal National Park’s long list of walking tracks. On weekends, you can even hire a kayak and paddle in the Hacking River.
Activities: swimming, camping
Location:
shown on park map
Getting there: Bonnie Vale campground is located on Sea Breeze Lane, Bundeena, in Royal National Park. On entering the park at Loftus, drive 25km from the entrance towards Bundeena. Travel along Bundeena Drive and turn left onto Sea Breeze Lane. For backpack campers it’s possible to take the ferry from Cronulla and arrive on foot via a 15 minute walk from Bundeena wharf.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, gas/electric barbecues, flush toilets, hot showers, drinking water
Vehicle entry fee: $11 per vehicle per day. Fee is payable at time of booking or at the local office. Current NSW National Park pass or current NPWS exemption pass holders are excluded.
Camping fees: Site fee $28 (2 person inclusive). Additional adults $14, additional children $7, infants 0-4 years free.
Online bookings: use a secure payment facility to book online
Alternatively, please contact the Customer Experience Team on 13000 PARKS (13000 72757) to make a booking.
NB: All reservations incur a booking fee of 2.5% in addition to the total amount payable.
Events, activities and alerts at this location
| Commercial activity | Bundeena Kayaks  The waters off Bundeena and the Royal National Park in the south of Sydney truly are a paddling paradise. Kayaking is a perfect way to explore this stunning area, with long stretches of sandy swimming beaches, secluded picnic areas and breathtaking scenery.
Bundeena Kayaks offers a selection of kayaking activities, including self-guided kayak hire, guided kayaking tours and kayaking fitness sessions. Bundeena can be reached by either car or public transport (20 minute ferry ride from Cronulla).
More info: Bundeena Kayaks, Phone: 02 9544 5294 or 0419 254 981 (international +612 9544 5294, +61419 254 981) | As required |
| 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 |
| Commercial activity | Understand Down Under  1 Day Royal National Park Eco-tour
Your beach and wilderness escape. If you only have one day in Sydney, then this should be it!
Understand Down Under (UDU) invites you on a journey of discovery. Have fun while using all your senses to actively learn about:
- Plants and their traditional uses
- Australian and Aboriginal culture
- Local history and geology
- Australian birds and wildlife
Australia's oldest national park: The Royal National Park is Sydney's hidden secret. It's renowned for its beautiful and diverse natural landscapes, its abundant wildlife and unique local history. It is more than just bush and rainforest - Royal National Park boasts a beautiful coastline and is only 30km away. Instead of sitting on a bus, relax or have fun at the beach.
1 Day Royal National Park Highlights
The UDU mini-bus will take you on a 1 day adventure with a great mix of active discovery & serene relaxation:
- Where it all started, Audley is full of history and fantastic birdlife;
- Discovery Eco-walk - explore the magical Wattamolla. Learn how to live in Australia's bushland and hear dreaming stories;
- Relax over a delicious, uniquely Australian picnic lunch overlooking the Royal's many beaches
- Garie Beach - plenty of time to swim, play Aussie beach games, relax or sunbake. For the more adventurous, climb to the cliff-top for a breathtaking panoramic view
- Throw boomerangs and spears alongside the Hacking River
- Tranquil bushwalk through temperate rainforest
- Afternoon tea with awe-inspiring views from Bald Hill; home to Lawrence Hargraves, Australia's pioneer of flight
- Grand Pacific Drive - take time to see this incredible area, including the distinctive Sea Cliff Bridge
More info: Understand Down Under, Phone: 0448 388 687 (international +61448 388 687) | . |
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
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
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
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
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
Weir Café
Wheelchair access: easy
This area is fully wheelchair accessible
It took two years and a multi-million dollar refurbishment, but when Audley Dance Hall at Audley Weir reopened in 2011, Weir Café quickly made it the destination for visitors looking for a bite to eat in Royal National Park. Set amid native bushland with views over Hacking River, the café is a perfect place to kick back over breakfast or a hearty lunch. Birds forage on the lawn and rowboats drift across the river, with leaves falling from the trees in autumn. Royal National Park has always been a popular destination for Sydneysiders, and this is one more reason to make the pilgrimage out from the city.
For a sample menu or for more information go to www.weircafe.com.au
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching, paddling, sailing and boating
Location:
shown on Audley map
Getting there: On entering Royal National Park:
- From Farnell Avenue at Loftus, follow Audley Road down to 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: Weir Café is:
- open 8:30am – 5:30pm (Monday – Friday)
- open 8:30am – 7pm (Saturday – Sunday)
Facilities: picnic tables, cafe/kiosk, flush toilets, drinking water, public phone, trackhead/access point, venue, visitor centre, carpark
Bookings: Phone: (02) 9542 6222 (Weir Café) and (02) 9542 6066 (The Audley Room)
Email: reservations@weircafe.com.au
Website: www.weircafe.com.au and www.audleyroom.com.au
