If you’re after a longer day coastal adventure with ocean views, waterfalls, beach access and a solid hike, the Wattamolla to Garie Beach return is a great pick. I’ve done the Eagle Rock section more times than I can count. It’s always my go-to coastal trail. But doing the walk to Garie and back gives you the best of what the Royal National Park has to offer.
Starting from Wattamolla
The trail begins from Wattamolla Picnic Area, which has toilets, barbecues and a lagoon if you want a swim before or after your hike. Parking is $12 unless you have a National Parks pass, and it fills up quickly on weekends.
Coastal Views, Eagle Rock and Curracurrong Falls
The trail follows the coastline with a mix of boardwalk and dirt path. You’ll pass Curracurrang Cove, a quiet spot where freshwater flows into the sea. There are signs of old rock shelters and middens here, marking it as an important site for the Dharawal people.
Just before you cross the creek here, there’s an unmarked trail on the right that leads to a hidden waterfall and swimming hole, Curracurrang Falls. It’s a short detour through the bush and over the creek, and well worth it if you have time.
Not long after that, you’ll reach Eagle Rock. It really does look like an eagle’s head gazing over the ocean. Right next to it is Curracurrong Falls, one of the few waterfalls in the world that flows straight into the sea.
During whale season, there’s a lookout early on where you can often spot whales breaching. You might also see them from other clifftop sections along the track.
Descent to Garie Beach
The final stretch down to Garie is where the climb kicks in. There’s a long set of stairs that’ll get your legs burning, but the views as you come into the beach are stunning. It’s one of my favourite sections of the whole track.
Garie Beach feels remote and open, with rolling surf and steep headlands behind it. There are basic facilities like toilets and a picnic shelter, but no drinking water, so come prepared.
Can You Start from Garie Beach?
You used to be able to start this track from Garie and head north, but the road to Garie is currently closed to vehicles. For now, it’s best to start and finish at Wattamolla.
Final Thoughts
This walk has it all. Clifftop views, waterfalls, beaches, and just enough distance to feel like a full adventure. If you’re not up for the full 16 km, you can always stop at Eagle Rock or turn back whenever suits. I’ve written a separate blog on Eagle Rock if you want to check that one out.
It does get busy on weekends, especially on hot days. If you’re going then, I’d recommend starting early or heading out later in the afternoon to catch that golden light and avoid the crowds.
