Garie Beach to North and South Era

Garie Beach to North and South Era is a 2.9-mile (4.6 km) out-and-back on The Coast Track. From Garie Beach Picnic Area, the footpath passes Little Garie, climbs over Thelma Head, drops to North Era, and continues to South Era before you retrace your steps. The map draws the coastal corridor once; the distance is the full return walk. Go for the two walk-in beaches and the changing views over the headlands. If North Era is enough, turn around there.

A narrow path follows the cliff line for about 500 m before Little Garie, a small rocky cove backed by hillside shacks. From there, long stairs climb roughly 90 m over about 600 m, with a bench partway up. Take a breather and look back: Garie and Little Garie open out below you. Thelma Head briefly levels off with both Era beaches in view, then a long staircase drops about 400 m to North Era. You repeat that climb on the way back, so save some energy for it. The flat near Thelma Head is the best place to frame both coves below the green headland.

From North Era, stay on the inland Coast Track for the several-hundred-metre leg over a short boardwalk and grassy slope to South Era. The rocky shelf between the beaches is slippery and tide-dependent; use the track over the hill when the tide is high or the surf is up. South Era is the larger beach, with a small hillside shack community. The former North Era campground was decommissioned and closed in 2023, so do not count on it for an overnight stop or amenities.

Allow about 3 to 3.5 hours for both beaches and a few breaks. The park's three-hour return estimate covers the shorter walk only as far as North Era, so leave extra time to continue to South Era. Park entry fees apply at Garie; bring drinking water, as no source along the route was confirmed. North Era is unpatrolled and has dangerous rip currents, sudden drop-offs, and unexpectedly large waves. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in Royal National Park.