Perhaps you’ve heard whispers of a hidden beach south of Sydney. That place is Burning Palms. Today, we’ll uncover some of its secrets.
Burning Palms is more than just a beach. It’s an unbounded neighbourhood nestled in the Royal National Park. To get here, you’ll have to walk. The path is steep but the destination is worth it.
In 2012, Burning Palms gained recognition. It was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register. This included Little Garie and Era as part of the Royal National Park Coastal Cabin Communities.
Burning Palms Beach is about 500 meters long. It faces south. Waves average around 1.5 meters. This makes it a good spot for surfing. But beware. Strong rips can make swimming dangerous.
One reason Burning Palms is popular involves a geological phenomenon. Near the beach lies the Figure 8 Pool. This tidal swimming hole has become a social media attraction. Accessing it requires a walk along the coastline at low tide.
There are a few ways to reach Burning Palms Beach. The shortest is via the Burgh Ridge Track. It descends steeply from the Garrawarra Farm car park. This is also the most popular route to the Figure 8 Pool. Another option is a longer route. This one starts near the Otford Lookout on Lady Wakehurst Drive. It descends through the Palm Jungle to the beach.
If you are tackling the Royal National Park Coast Track, you’ll pass Burning Palms Beach. It’s a perfect place for a swim or a break.
Burning Palms is home to about 20 heritage-listed cabins. They sit on the northern slope. The surf lifesaving club was founded in 1939. Volunteers patrol the beach on Sundays and public holidays from September to April. They also patrol on Saturdays in December and January.
The Burning Palms Surf Life Saving Club is dedicated to keeping Burning Palms beach safe. The club acknowledges the Dharawal people. They are the Traditional Custodians of the land where Burning Palms is located. The club pays respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
This club faced a major setback in the mid-1990s. A large storm washed away the Burning Palms Clubhouse. Huge seas caused devastating damage. It needed to be rebuilt.
Burning Palms offers more than just a beautiful beach. It offers a sense of community. It offers a connection to nature and a slice of history. As you leave Burning Palms, remember the stories it holds. Remember the dedication of those who protect its shores. And remember the beauty that rewards those who make the journey.