The Royal National Park, dividing Wollongong and Sydney, offers beautiful coastal features that make for a perfect overnight hike or a day trip taking on the region's highlights like rock pools at Figure 8 Pools, sparkling beaches, waterhole cliff jumping at Wattamolla, and unforgettable natural beauty.

Wattamolla Beach is the gateway to your coastal adventure. Imagine golden sand stretching as far as the eye can see, turquoise waves lapping at the shore, and lush greenery framing the coastline. This beach is ideal for families, with calm waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. Keen surfers can catch waves on the southern end, while photographers will delight in capturing the dramatic rock formations and endless ocean views. The real highlight here, though, is the cliffs ready for you to lurch yourself off. Note, this can be a dangerous area, one of the best ways to mitigate risk is instead of climbing up the cliff, swim to the side and make the walk around.

Close by, the interconnected pools, creating the imagination of a figure 8, are a delightful place to bathe in refreshing crystal-clear pools and explore surrounding rock features. Carved by nature, you will want to be here at low tide while access to the area and pools is open. Pro tip: wear fully enclosed shoes as thongs and slides can make for a difficult walk in some sections.

Wattamolla and Figure 8 Pools are the perfect day trip from Wollongong. The combination of pristine beaches, refreshing rock pools, and scenic walking trails caters to all interests. Pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, a picnic lunch, and a sense of adventure, and get ready to experience a slice of paradise just south of the city.