Royal National Park Hike, Swim and Picnic Day Trip

This full-day trip gets you out of the city and into the wilder side of Sydney. You’ll walk through a hidden rainforest section of Royal National Park, tackle a coastal hike with big ocean views, then slow things down with a swim and picnic at Wattamolla Lagoon. There’s also the option to add a visit to Symbio Wildlife Park for koalas and kangaroos, though entry is extra. It’s a small-group day aimed at active travellers who want a mix of walking, scenery and time in the water.

The day starts on one of the park’s oldest tracks, passing through a rainforest pocket with ferns, palms and eucalyptus. From there, the trip continues onto a coastal hike to either Wedding Cake Rock or Eagle Rock, depending on conditions on the day, with sandstone cliffs and wide sea views along the way. A light trail snack is included during the walk. After the hike, you’ll head to Wattamolla Lagoon for time to swim in the calm lagoon or the ocean, relax and eat a picnic with cheeses, dips, fruit and drinks. In the afternoon, you can either visit Symbio Wildlife Park for a koala session and kangaroo time, or stay focused on the natural scenery. The return drive follows the Grand Pacific Drive and includes a stop at Sea Cliff Bridge. You’ll need at least moderate fitness, and this trip is not recommended for pregnant travellers or anyone with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.