Located within the stunning Royal National Park, just outside of Sydney, the Figure Eight Pools are one of the most unique and sought-after natural attractions in New South Wales. With their perfectly symmetrical shape and crystal-clear waters, they make for an Instagram-worthy adventure. However, while these pools are a beautiful destination, they come with a certain level of risk. It’s important to approach this hike with the right preparation and awareness. Here are eight tips to help you make the most of your visit to the Figure Eight Pools.
1. Check the Tide, Weather, and Swell Before You Go
This is perhaps the most crucial tip. The Figure Eight Pools are located on a rock shelf that is directly exposed to the ocean, making it necessary to visit during low tide. At high tide, the pools will be covered by water, and the surrounding rocks can become dangerously slippery due to crashing waves. It’s essential to check the weather forecast, tide times, and ocean swell conditions before heading out to ensure a safe visit. Low tide with calm seas is ideal.
2. Drive Your Own Car or Rent One
The Figure Eight Pools aren’t accessible by public transportation, so the best option is to drive yourself. You can park at the Garrawarra Farm Car Park and hike to the pools from there. If you don’t have a car, consider renting one. It’s an affordable choice that will give you more flexibility and allow you to explore more of the surrounding areas.
3. Dress for Comfort and Pack a Bathing Suit
The hike to the Figure Eight Pools is approximately 6 kilometers each way, so you’ll need to wear comfortable clothing and footwear. Athletic wear is ideal, and I recommend wearing a swimsuit underneath so you’re ready for a swim once you reach the pools. For shoes, sturdy sneakers will do, though you may want to bring flip-flops or go barefoot while walking on the beach portion of the hike.
4. Be Careful on the Rocks
When you reach the rock shelf, you’ll need to climb over some large, uneven rocks before you reach the pools. The rocks can be slippery, especially as the tide changes, so proceed with caution. It’s easy to get distracted by the beauty of the place, but walking slowly and carefully will help prevent any accidents.
5. Bring Enough Water and Snacks
This hike can take around 2 hours each way, with some time to relax at the pools. Be sure to pack plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the hike. Snacks are also important to keep your energy up. A comfortable backpack is ideal for carrying your essentials, as it allows your hands to stay free for balancing while you climb over rocks.
6. Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds
To fully enjoy the Figure Eight Pools without the crowds, aim to visit early in the morning. If you time it right, you can have the entire place to yourself! On our visit, we arrived around 9 a.m., and the conditions were perfect—low tide, no crowds, and a peaceful atmosphere. If you plan to visit later in the day, make sure you leave enough time to hike back before it gets dark, as there are no lights along the trail.
7. The Pools May Appear Smaller Than Expected
While the Figure Eight Pools look magnificent in photos, they might seem smaller in person. The rock shelf is dotted with other tidal pools, so it’s easy to get confused about which one is the famous “Figure Eight” pool. After checking several other pools, we realized the 8-shaped one was smaller than expected, but still stunning. The size didn’t detract from the experience—swimming in the pools was incredible!
8. Don’t Forget Your Camera
While the pools might not be as large as they seem in photos, they are still a remarkable sight. The surrounding scenery, the rock formations, and the crystal-clear water make it a perfect place to capture the beauty of nature. Don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to document this unforgettable adventure.
Conclusion
A visit to the Figure Eight Pools is a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning. By checking the tides, dressing appropriately, and being cautious on the rocks, you can enjoy this beautiful spot safely. Whether you’re there to swim, take photos, or simply admire the surroundings, the Figure Eight Pools offer an unforgettable adventure within the Royal National Park.
