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Royal National Park, Sydney: Getting There
By Road, Rail or Water

By Larry Rivera, About.com Guide

Hacking River Royal National Park

Taking time to feed the ducks on the Hacking River

Copyright 2000 Larry Rivera

There are three roadway entrances to the Royal National Park:

  • Off the Princes Highway 2.3km south of Sutherland (or 29km south from the Sydney centre) through Farnell Ave.
  • Off the Princes Highway at Waterfall 33km east from Liverpool through McKell Ave.
  • Through Wakehurst Drive in Otford 28km north from Wollongong.

By train

If going by train, take the Illawarra Line to Loftus, Engadine, Heathcote, Waterfall or Otford, then into the Royal National Park through walking tracks. A tram is available from Loftus on Sundays and public holidays.

By ferry or boat

You can also take a ferry to Bundeena from the Sydney beachside suburb of Cronulla. Check the ferry timetable on (02) 9523 2990.

Access by boat is possible along the coast and through the Hacking River below the causeway.

Important reminders

  • All fauna, flora, Aboriginal sites and rock formations in the Royal National Park are protected.

  • Use only the fireplaces and barbecues provided within the Royal National Park. Observe fire bans and warnings. Portable gas barbecues are allowed.

  • Pets, spearguns and firearms are not allowed in the Royal National Park.

  • Vehicles, including motorbikes, must keep to formed roadways.

  • Use rubbish bins where they are provided or take your rubbish with you when you leave.

While a visit to the Royal National Park should be danger-free, it is advisable to avoid flirting with peril. Don't walk on the edges of precipices or where landslides may occur. On days of extreme fire danger or during total fire bans, do not undertake walks away from the main visitor areas or roads. On long walks, carry adequate drinking water. When boating on the water, wear safety flotation vests.

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