Located within Royal National Park, the Wattamolla Beach area offers a scenic lagoon, a secluded beach, a picturesque waterfall, and a spacious picnic ground.
This hidden gem has become one of Sydney’s most sought-after spots for weekend and day trips, perfect for a relaxing family outing.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Wattamolla Beach area to help you plan your visit.
Getting There
In Royal National Park, access Wattamolla Beach by turning onto Wattamolla Road from Sir Bertram Stevens Drive and following it to the end, where you’ll find the car park (see map location).
While there’s plenty of parking available, keep in mind that summer days can get quite busy. It’s a good idea to arrive early or visit on a weekday if possible.
From the car park, it’s just a 400-metre walk to the beach, with the falls, lagoon, and picnic area only a short stroll away.
Wattamolla Beach is open daily from 7:00 AM to 8:30 PM. Note that there is a $12 vehicle entry fee for the Royal National Park, payable at the park entrance booth or one of the pay machines.
Map
The below map shows the entire Wattamolla Beach area, with parking and highlights marked:
- Waterfall
- Beach and Lagoon
- Picnic Area
- Wattamolla Dam
- Providential Point Lookout
Discover Wattamolla
The name “Wattamolla” comes from an Aboriginal word meaning “place near running water”, which is fitting when you see the area.
In 1796, Matthew Flinders, an English navigator and cartographer, discovered Wattamolla. He and his crew sought shelter in the calm waters of the lagoon during bad weather.
Waterfall
Located near the northern parking area, Wattamolla Falls is an excellent spot to begin your exploration of Wattamolla.
The top of the waterfall is fenced off, and jumping into the lagoon is strictly prohibited. While the temptation to jump may be strong on a warm day, it’s important to remember that the prohibition is there for good reason.

What might appear safe can be deceiving, as the water’s depth and hidden rocks are easily underestimated, with conditions constantly changing due to currents and rainfall.

That said, the views from the top of the waterfall are stunning, offering a picturesque perspective of the lagoon below and the ocean in the distance, as well as a great overview of the entire Wattamolla Beach area.
Beach and Lagoon
From the waterfall and parking area, follow the path that leads to the lagoon and the beach.
Along the way, you’ll have the option to turn left onto a paved path that takes you to a pier structure across the lagoon. This spot offers fantastic views of both the lagoon and the waterfall.

The lagoon’s calm, crystal-clear water makes it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkelling, and even kayaking.
To reach the ocean-facing beach, continue along the walking path that runs parallel to the lagoon. This short and easy 350-metre trail leads straight to the beach.

With the ocean and rugged headlands ahead of you and the lagoon and waterfall behind, it truly feels like you’ve stumbled upon a slice of paradise.
While there are no surf lifeguards at Wattamolla, the water is generally calm and safe for swimming. For families, the lagoon’s tranquil waters are especially suitable for children, away from the waves of the ocean-facing beach.
Check out our list of beautiful beaches in the Royal National Park for more ideas to go for a swim in Sydney’s oldest national park.
Picnic Area
The Wattamolla picnic area is spacious and well-organised, featuring a few electric BBQs and several picnic tables scattered across a large open field.
There’s also a recently upgraded toilet block, along with bins and running water for added convenience.

It’s an excellent spot to take a break from swimming or hiking and enjoy a relaxing lunch in the fresh air.
Located right next to the car park, the picnic area is easily accessible. However, on sunny weekends, it tends to fill up quickly, so arriving early is highly recommended.
Nearby Walks
Wattamolla Beach is the perfect base to do one or more hikes nearby. Here are some examples.
1. Providential Point Lookout

The most obvious walk to do when in Wattamolla is the short walking trail to Providential Point Lookout, also known as the Wattamolla Lookout.
It’s roughly 500 metres one way from the picnic area, and the trail is mostly flat and very easy to follow.
More info: Providential Point Lookout.
2. Little Marley Beach

This is a beautiful 7 km return hike from the picnic area to Little Marley Beach, a secluded stretch of sand just south of Marley Beach.
The walk passes Wattamolla Dam, also known as Wattamolla Creek Dam, a beautiful water hole, perfect for a quick swim with great forest views.
More info: Wattamolla to Little Marley Beach.
3. Eagle Rock

One of the best hikes in the Royal National Park is the trail from Wattomolla to Eagle Rock and Curracurrong Falls.
This is an 8 km return hike to two of the most iconic sights in the area. The trail mostly follows the coastline, and there are fantastic views to take in from start to finish.
More info: Eagle Rock and Curracurrong Falls.