Wattamolla Falls and Providential Point
Greater Sydney
Royal National Park
Wattamolla Falls
Wattamolla Falls
Typical section of track
Wattamolla Falls
Click to see full image.
A popular park favourite, with a wide curtain waterfall flowing into the creek near a beach, and a short extension to a lookout with fantastic ocean views.
This heavily trafficked walk begins at the Wattamolla Falls picnic area at the end of Wattamolla Road in Royal National Park.
Starting from behind the public toilets in the south-eastern corner of the picnic area, follow the track through the bush, looking down to Wattamolla Beach.
Continue alongside Coote Creek until you reach the side-track on your left, which leads down a set of stairs to the beginning of the lagoon.
Here a tidal sand bank, allows Coote Creek to flow into the ocean, creating a protected beach and lagoon in front of Wattamolla Falls.
The falls are a wide curtain waterfall that flow into the lagoon – a wonderful and popular place for swimming, snorkelling and paddling on a warm day.
Note that the beach is not supervised by lifeguards, so caution is required when entering the water, and children should be supervised at all times.
After visiting the lagoon and falls, retrace your steps back to the main path and follow the track to further along Coote Creek to where it meets the ocean – this is Providential Point.
Enjoy the views across to Martin Head and out to the ocean.
There is also an option to head a little further up the rocky steps to the top of the cliffs for more spectacular views.
To return, simply retrace your steps to the car park. Continuing along the Coastal Track takes you on the longer walk to Eagle Rock and Curracurrong Falls.
While walking, keep an eye out for birds of prey circling above, as well as dolphins and turtles in the waters below. The walk is also a great place to watch whale migrations (July to November).
There is a picnic area, with covered and uncovered tables, BBQs and toilets at the beginning of the walk.
This is a great walk to add to a day-trip of the park, hitting the top sights in the park, including Figure 8 Pools, Eagle Rock and Curracurrong Falls, Wedding Cake Rock, and Bungoona Lookout.
Track: The trail involves well-maintained graded paths and constructed boardwalks and is mostly flat, with the exception of the steps to the lagoon and the steps to the top of the cliffs above Providential Point.
Difficulty: The track is well-maintained and relatively flat, with only a few sections involving steps. It is suitable for most fitness levels with time. The upper picnic area and viewing platforms are wheelchair accessible.
Caution is required near the edge at the lookout, despite there being safety rails. The lagoon can become dangerous during and after heavy rain, due to flooding.
Note that the beach is not supervised by lifeguards, so caution is required when entering the water, and children should be supervised at all times.
Direction: This is an out-and-back track that returns the way you came.
getting there
The walk is located at the Wattamolla Falls picnic area at the end of Wattamolla Road in Royal National Park, 1.25 hours drive south of Sydney.
The car park is large but given it is shared with visitors to other walks, it can become extremely busy during peak periods.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round.
The lagoon can flood after heavy rain, so be sure to check the New South Wales Parks and Wildlife Service website for updates regarding track closures.
Note that there are park fees associated with entering many national parks in New South Wales. Check the New South Wales Parks and Wildlife Service website for more information.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.