ParkwolfOpen in app

Figure Eight Pools Lookout

Best vantage to judge surf before heading down to the pools

Figure Eight Pools Lookout, Royal National Park
Image credit: Parkwolf

Pros & cons

PROS

  • Prime vantage to assess wave conditions before committing to the rock shelf
  • Wide coastal views over Burning Palms and the pools below

CONS

  • No facilities nearby; rely on Garawarra Farm carpark for toilets
  • Long, steep return hike with rocky sections that slow progress
  • Area can be busy on weekends and peak days

Overview

Perched above Burning Palms, this lookout gives you a clear, reality‑check view of the Figure Eight Pools and the surrounding rock shelf. It’s where smart hikers pause to judge the ocean before deciding whether to continue down. The coastline is wild and beautiful—cliffs, surf, and that famous cluster of rock pools far below.

Why it matters

Conditions make or break a Figure Eight day. From here you can literally watch wave sets hitting the rock platform. If you can see waves washing across the shelf, turn back—simple as that. Even on low‑risk days, freak waves happen, so treat this vantage as your go/no‑go call.

Getting there

Drive to Garawarra Farm carpark (mixed sealed/unsealed road; fine for 2WD). From there it’s roughly 6–6.4 km return to the pools area, mostly on boardwalks and steps, with the final kilometre involving loose, slippery rocks. It’s downhill on the way out and a steady uphill grind coming back, so budget the energy—and daylight—for the return.

Facilities and what to bring

There are no toilets, bins, or drinking water on the track or at the rock platform. Use the facilities at Garawarra Farm before you start, and carry plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, sturdy closed‑toe shoes, and a small first‑aid kit. Mobile reception is limited; downloading the Emergency Plus app is recommended.

Safety essentials

Only consider heading beyond the lookout when the NSW National Parks Figure Eight Pools risk forecast shows Low for your entire window (hike down, visit, and hike back). Go at low tide with calm swell, and never turn your back on the ocean once on the rocks. Drones, pets (except certified assistance animals), and smoking are prohibited. There are no lifeguards; help can take time.

Wildlife

From late autumn through spring (roughly May–October), migrating whales are often seen offshore along this coastline. Bring a zoom lens or binoculars if you’re visiting in that window.

Best time to visit

  • Crowds: Midweek and winter are quieter; sunrise is your best bet on busy days.
  • Light: Sunrise paints the cliffs and surf beautifully; sunset can work too, but only if your risk window safely covers the hike out so you’re not rock‑hopping in the dark.
  • Park hours: The park generally opens 7:00 am and closes 8:30 pm; it may shut during bad weather or high fire danger.

Pro tip

If conditions or confidence aren’t perfect, treat the lookout as your destination. The views are excellent, the decision‑making is smarter, and you’ll skip the riskiest part of the outing.

Where it is

-34.1945, 151.0385
Figure Eight Pools Lookout
4 places & 4 trails nearbyGet the offline map

Tips for Figure Eight Pools Lookout

  1. 01Use the NSW National Parks risk forecast and go only when it’s rated Low for your full window.
  2. 02From the lookout, if waves are washing across the rock shelf, turn back.
  3. 03Time your visit for low tide and calm swell; start early to ensure a daylight return.
  4. 04Carry 1–2 liters of water per person, snacks, and wear grippy, closed‑toe shoes.
  5. 05Expect weekend crowds—aim for sunrise or a midweek winter visit for space.

Amenities

Scenic Viewpoint

Near Figure Eight Pools Lookout

All places →All trails →
Figure 8 Pools, Royal National Park0 mi awayFigure 8 PoolsIconic rock pools that reward a risky coastal trekParking · RestroomPalm Jungle Lookout, Royal National Park1 mi awayPalm Jungle LookoutClifftop perch over wild Werrong Beach and the palm jungleScenic ViewpointBurning Palms Track, Royal National Park1 mi awayBurning Palms TrackShort, steep dash to a wild beach and heritage shacks.Moderate · 2.2 mi · 1.8 hrFigure Eight Pools Walk, Royal National Park1 mi awayFigure Eight Pools WalkCoastal trek to a tiny photogenic pool; safe only at low tide.Moderate · 4 mi · 3 hrBurning Palms, Royal National Park1.1 mi awayBurning PalmsRemote surf beach reached by a steep, scenic walkBurning Palms Cabin Community, Royal National Park1.1 mi awayBurning Palms Cabin CommunityHeritage beach shacks along the Coast Track, fascinating and privateWerrong Beach Track, Royal National Park2 mi awayWerrong Beach TrackSteep rainforest drop to a wild, secluded nude beach—no swimming.Challenging · 2.5 mi · 2 hrGarie Beach to North Era, Royal National Park2.3 mi awayGarie Beach to North EraShort coastal climb between surf beaches with big viewsModerate · 2.9 mi · 1.8 hr

More about Figure Eight Pools Lookout

viewpointcoastalhikesunrisephotospotsafetystop

PARKWOLF TOUR GUIDE

Like a tour guide in your car.

Save the places you found around Royal, then let Parkwolf guide the drive between them.
Download Parkwolf on the App StoreGet Parkwolf on Google Play
The Parkwolf tour guide sitting on a phone mounted in a car
Get the Audio Tour Guide for your drive through RoyalOpen Parkwolf