Royal National Park

The Royal National Park, colloquially known as the “Nasho” or “Royal”, is a protected national park in New South Wales, Australia. Established in 1879, it is the world’s second-oldest national park (after Yellowstone in the United States) and the first to use the term “national park”.

Key Information

• Location: About 29 km south of Sydney CBD
• Area: 15,091 hectares (37,290 acres)
• Established: 26 April 1879
• Website: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service - Royal National Park

Wildlife

The Royal National Park is home to a diverse range of Australian wildlife:

1. Native Birds: Chance to spot lyrebirds, kookaburras, crimson rosellas, and yellow-tailed black cockatoos.

2. Mammals: Visitors might see swamp wallabies, ringtail possums, sugar gliders, and even echidnas.

3. Reptiles: The park is home to various lizards, including water dragons and lace monitors.

4. Marine Life: In the coastal areas and estuaries, you might spot dolphins, seals, and during migration season, whales.

Key Features and Experiences

1. Diverse Landscapes: Coastal cliffs, beaches, eucalyptus bushland, and rainforest areas.

2. Hiking Trails: Over 100 km of walking tracks, including the famous Coast Track.

3. Beaches: Beautiful beaches like Garie, Wattamolla, and Jibbon.

4. Whale Watching: During migration seasons (May-July and September-November).

5. Picnic Areas: Multiple spots for picnics and barbecues.

6. Water Activities: Swimming, surfing, and kayaking opportunities.

7. Cycling: Various cycling trails for mountain biking enthusiasts.

Visitor Tips

• Check fire danger ratings and park alerts before visiting.
• Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
• Stay on marked trails to protect the environment and ensure your safety.
• If you’re planning to do the Coast Track, consider breaking it into sections or camping overnight.
• The best times for wildlife spotting are early morning and late afternoon.

Getting There

• By Car: About 1 hour drive from Sydney CBD via the Princes Highway.
• By Public Transport: Train to Cronulla, then a ferry to Bundeena, which is at the park’s eastern entrance.

The Royal National Park offers a perfect escape from the city, providing opportunities to experience Australian bush, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife all in one location. Whether you’re interested in hiking, picnicking, wildlife watching, or just enjoying nature, the Royal National Park has something to offer.

Related: Animals, Nature, Outings, Experiences, Whale Watching