Figure Eight Pools Walk

Figure Eight Pools Walk is a 6 km out-and-back from Garawarra Farm carpark to tidal pools on an exposed rock shelf, returning the way you came. It descends Burgh Ridge to The Coast Track, follows the coast to Burning Palms Beach, then continues south over shoreline rock to the pools. The unusual two-lobed pool and open coast are the payoff, but the approach is a long, hard hike; allow about four hours for the return. The 6 km is the round-trip figure for this Garawarra Farm route; longer approaches from elsewhere on the coast are separate hikes.

The rock platform faces open ocean, and waves can wash across it. Tide and swell are a go-or-no-go decision, not an afterthought: NPWS advises against visiting at mid or high tide or when stormy weather is forecast. Check its live risk forecast and park alerts shortly before leaving. Low tide alone does not make the shelf safe. Stay well back from the ocean edge and turn back if waves reach the platform. There is no nearby rescue service, and mobile reception is unreliable, so do not depend on a phone to manage a changing situation.

From the carpark, Burgh Ridge Track descends steeply through coastal vegetation; substantial portions are boardwalk before it meets The Coast Track. Continue to Burning Palms Beach, then head south. The route loses most of its elevation on the way down, and that steep climb is waiting on the return. Expect uneven ground and save energy for the ascent; sturdy footwear and a measured pace suit this hard, exposed outing. NPWS allows about two hours each way, so budget four hours rather than trying to rush it.

Beyond the beach the tread fades: the last approach follows an unmarked rock path across large, uneven shoreline shelves. It is easy to mistake this for a simple stroll from the sand, but the surface and route-finding change here; only continue when surf and tide are safe. The Figure Eight Pool is one of several natural pools on the platform, distinguished by its linked two-lobed outline. If conditions permit, the pool makes a striking photo from stable ground set well back from the sea. Never step to the edge or stay on the platform when waves wash over it.

Garawarra Farm carpark has toilets and a ticket machine for park entry; there are no toilets, water, food or bins along the coast walk or at the pools. Carry at least 2 litres of water per person. Garie Road is unsealed; it is unsuitable for lowered vehicles and for 2WD cars in wet weather. Garie Beach kiosk is a separate stop, not a service on this route. Pets are not permitted in Royal National Park.