The Coast track

The Coast Track winds through the Royal National Park, the vast and beautiful park on Sydney's southern fringe near Cronulla and Bundeena. One of the finest coastal walks in the country, it traces roughly 26 kilometres of dramatic clifftops, secluded beaches, heathland and rainforest gullies between Bundeena and Otford, with the ocean alongside the whole way.

The appeal is that incredible variety and grandeur: towering sea cliffs, hidden beaches, the famous Figure Eight Pools and Wedding Cake Rock area, wildflowers, whales in season and sweeping ocean views, all within easy reach of the city. It can be tackled as a full multi-day hike or in shorter sections, each rewarding in its own right.

With a 4.8 rating from more than 500 reviews, it's an overwhelmingly admired walk. It's a substantial, often remote track with limited facilities, exposed sections and conditions that vary with the weather, so it's essential to check current park information and plan carefully before you go — and to take plenty of water, sun protection, good footwear and to walk within your limits.