Figure 8 Pools Experience
From AU $89 per person
The severe weather from March 2022 has damaged access to this area. We are in the process of redefining a different access and will be scheduling dates for 2022 shortly.
The severe weather from March 2022 has damaged access to this area. We are in the process of redefining a different access and will be scheduling dates for 2022 shortly.
This guided adventure to the Figure Eight Pools rock formation in the Royal National Park is a trip that needs to be on your bucket list. With an award-winning, eco-licensed tour operator, you will hike along the stunning Sydney Coast Track of the Royal National Park and safely traverse to the insta-famous Figure Eight Pools. You will also get up close to an Aboriginal shell midden, learn about the fascinating history and flora and fauna of the area, and be able to participate in a citizen-science beach photography project. And the best thing? All the money raised from this tour goes to helping the Indigenous Literacy Foundation and UNICEF Australia with their efforts to help children in need.
Why book this tour?
- Hike safely to the Figure Eight Pools with an Eco-licensed, award-winning tour operator
- Sample the iconic Sydney Coast Track
- Visit an ancient Aboriginal shell midden
- Participate in a citizen-science beach photography project
- Learn from passionate and experienced guides
- Charter bus transportation included
- Meet like-minded explorers wanting to make a difference
- Small group sizes (max 12 people)
- Help kids in need!
Hiking on the Sydney Coast Track.
What we'll do
For this experience, we will meet at Sutherland train station in South Sydney for a short introduction. We will then hop aboard the local train to the start of the hike in Otford. It’s here where our adventure really begins as we trek along the famous Sydney Coast Track for 11km to Garie beach, stopping on route to visit the amazing Figure Eight Pools. Be prepared for views that take your breath away as blue skies and turquoise oceans meet the emerald green of native Australian bushland and swathes of golden sand. On the way, you will get to learn some of the fascinating history of the area and how the heritage cottages you’ll see on this section of the walk came to be. If the conditions are right and luck is on our side, we may even spot a few whales, wallabies, or echidnas along the way.
Our traverse along the rocks to the Figure Eight Pools starts 5km into the journey, as we safely navigate around two headlands and jump across rocks on the way. Upon reaching this spectacular area, you will have the chance to take a swim in the Figure 8 and the other naturally formed rock pools. Our guides can also help you snap the perfect photo.
After returning to the beach, we will then continue hiking towards Garie Beach, stopping along the way to take a Coast Snap for a new citizen-science project (see here) and to get up close to an Aboriginal shell midden. From Garie Beach, we we will hop aboard a charter bus that will venture through the Royal National Park and transport us back to Sutherland train station.
For this experience, we will meet at Sutherland train station in South Sydney for a short introduction. We will then hop aboard the local train to the start of the hike in Otford. It’s here where our adventure really begins as we trek along the famous Sydney Coast Track for 11km to Garie beach, stopping on route to visit the amazing Figure Eight Pools. Be prepared for views that take your breath away as blue skies and turquoise oceans meet the emerald green of native Australian bushland and swathes of golden sand. On the way, you will get to learn some of the fascinating history of the area and how the heritage cottages you’ll see on this section of the walk came to be. If the conditions are right and luck is on our side, we may even spot a few whales, wallabies, or echidnas along the way.
Our traverse along the rocks to the Figure Eight Pools starts 5km into the journey, as we safely navigate around two headlands and jump across rocks on the way. Upon reaching this spectacular area, you will have the chance to take a swim in the Figure 8 and the other naturally formed rock pools. Our guides can also help you snap the perfect photo.
After returning to the beach, we will then continue hiking towards Garie Beach, stopping along the way to take a Coast Snap for a new citizen-science project (see here) and to get up close to an Aboriginal shell midden. From Garie Beach, we we will hop aboard a charter bus that will venture through the Royal National Park and transport us back to Sutherland train station.
What to bring?
- Closed walking shoes with good grip (no thongs/flip flops/sandals)
- Packed lunch
- 2L water
- Swimming gear and towel
- Hat and sunscreen
- Camera
- Sense of adventure
Pick-up and drop off location*
Sutherland Train Station East Parade, Sydney.
Sutherland Train Station East Parade, Sydney.
* Meeting can also be arranged directly at Otford if coming by train from Central.
Departure Time
Either 6.45am or 8.45am depending on the tide and conditions, will confirm the day prior.
Tour Length
Approx. 8 hours.
Important Safety Information
The Figure Eight Pools are accessible only at low tide and in flat surf conditions. Our guides undertake regular risk assessments in preparation for the hike and on the day to ensure that it is safe to visit the Figure Eight Pools . Our guides are also trained in First Aid and carry PLBs and first-aid kits in case of any accident or emergency. If it is not safe to visit the Figure 8 Pools on the day, then an alternative activity may be offered or the trip will be cancelled. If the trip is cancelled, you can either reschedule to another date or receive a refund.
To visit the Figure Eight Pools, you will need a moderate to high level of fitness. The tour involves hiking up and down steep tracks on uneven and slippery surfaces, and rock hopping over two headlands (see photos). The hike duration is approximately 4-6 hours of exercise. Please get in touch if you are unsure as to whether this hike is suitable for you.
Departure Time
Either 6.45am or 8.45am depending on the tide and conditions, will confirm the day prior.
Tour Length
Approx. 8 hours.
Important Safety Information
The Figure Eight Pools are accessible only at low tide and in flat surf conditions. Our guides undertake regular risk assessments in preparation for the hike and on the day to ensure that it is safe to visit the Figure Eight Pools . Our guides are also trained in First Aid and carry PLBs and first-aid kits in case of any accident or emergency. If it is not safe to visit the Figure 8 Pools on the day, then an alternative activity may be offered or the trip will be cancelled. If the trip is cancelled, you can either reschedule to another date or receive a refund.
To visit the Figure Eight Pools, you will need a moderate to high level of fitness. The tour involves hiking up and down steep tracks on uneven and slippery surfaces, and rock hopping over two headlands (see photos). The hike duration is approximately 4-6 hours of exercise. Please get in touch if you are unsure as to whether this hike is suitable for you.
