Curracurrong Falls is one of the few waterfalls in the world that flows directly into the ocean, with a drop of 82 meters. On windy days, you can even witness the rare "reverse waterfall" phenomenon, where strong winds blow the falling water back up toward the cliff. Today's coastal hike took us from Wattamolla Beach to Eagle Rock and Curracurrong Falls. The round-trip distance was 8.8 km and took about 4 hours. The trail offers spectacular coastal scenery, with dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and one of Australia's most unique waterfalls along the way.
Curracurrong Falls
1 photo
Leaflet © OpenStreetMap
82m
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Curracurrong Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Curracurrong Falls famous?
Curracurrong Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Royal National Park, dropping 82 meters into a deep plunge pool accessible for swimming. It's a hidden gem less crowded than other park attractions, rewarding hikers with a spectacular cascade and refreshing swimming hole.
Can you swim at Curracurrong Falls?
Yes, swimming is allowed in the plunge pool at the base of the falls when conditions are safe. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Curracurrong Falls?
Dogs and pets are not permitted in Royal National Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Curracurrong Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free entry to Royal National Park from Sir Bertram Stevens Drive (western access). Vehicle entry fees apply if entering from other park gates. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Curracurrong Falls?
Parking is available at Curracurrong Creek picnic area on Sir Bertram Stevens Drive. Parking is free but spaces are limited. The trailhead is directly from the car park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Curracurrong Falls?
About 1.2 km / 0.75 mi return from Curracurrong Creek picnic area car park to the falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Curracurrong Falls hike difficulty
Moderate — the trail descends steeply through forest with uneven terrain, creek crossings, and rock scrambling required to reach the base of the falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Curracurrong Falls?
Autumn to spring (March–November) for best water flow after rainfall, though the falls can reduce to a trickle in summer. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Curracurrong Falls
From Curracurrong Creek picnic area, follow the marked track downhill through forest. The trail descends steeply and involves creek crossings and rock scrambling. At the base, you can swim in the pool beneath the 82-meter waterfall. Return via the same track with a steep uphill climb back to the car park.
Curracurrong Falls official website
Attractions near Curracurrong Falls
- •Wattamolla Beach and lagoon — popular picnic spot with swimming and waterfall in Royal NP
- •Garie Beach — surf beach with car access and coastal views
- •Wedding Cake Rock — unique rock formation at Bundeena (currently closed to public access)
- •Bundeena village — small coastal town with ferry access from Cronulla
- •Coast Track — multi-day coastal hiking trail through Royal National Park
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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