Era Beach
Royal National Park
Beach
A raw, remote surf beach in the southern section of Royal National Park, backed by windswept dunes and accessible only on foot via the Coast Track. The 6km walk from Otford passes dramatic sea cliffs and coastal heath before descending to the beach. Backdune camping is available, making Era a popular overnight destination for coastal trekkers. The surf is powerful and unpatrolled — not for casual swimmers. Come for the wild, off-grid coastal atmosphere and the long, empty sand.
Getting There
Drive south to Otford via the Princes Motorway. The Coast Track begins near Otford train station. Era Beach is approximately 6km south along the track. Alternatively, access from Bundeena at the north end of the park.
Best Time to Visit
Autumn and spring for comfortable coastal walking. Winter for solitude and dramatic coastal scenery. Summer for those camping at the beach overnight.
Tips
- The Coast Track is a serious multi-day walk — plan water and supplies carefully
- Era has a basic campsite accessible by foot (book through NPWS) — a spectacular place to spend a night in the national park
- The surf at Era is powerful and dangerous — come for the scenery and coastal atmosphere, not swimming
Entry & Facilities
National park entry fee applies. NPWS camping permit required for overnight stays — book at npws.nsw.gov.au.
Getting There
Location
Royal National Park
Distance from Sydney CBD
52 km
Drive time
~1 hr
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