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Muttonbird Island Outdoor learning space

Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve

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Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Muttonbird Island Outdoor learning space.

Getting there and parking

Muttonbird Island outdoor learning space is located at the base of the western side of the island.

Parking

Parking is available in and around the marina and waterfront precinct off Marina Drive, a short walk from Muttonbird Discovery display.

Accessible parking is available:

  • There are 2 accessible parking spaces in front of the Fishermans Co-Op, mid-way along breakwall. From these parking spaces, there's a ramp that leads up to the breakwall. 
  • There are also accessible parking spaces in the carpark at Northwall, on the western end of the breakwall.

Best times to visit

There are lots of great things waiting for you in Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve. Here are some of the highlights.

Autumn

Take the ‘Muttonbirds by Moonlight' guided tour to find out more about the muttonbird parents' and fledglings' migratory journey to southeast Asia.

Spring

Head to the island's peak or eastern side to look for migrating whales – make sure to take your binoculars Muttonbirds will be breeding and nesting at this time of year, so look closely for them and be very careful not to disturb them .

Summer

Look for dolphins in the water and sea turtles around the marina area.

Winter

Guided tours to the South Solitary Island include a return helicopter flight and guided inspection of the lighthouse keepers' buildings and surrounds. They are only available for two weekends every year so you'll need to book ahead – check out the Precision Helicopters website to find out more about scenic flights and tours. During the school holidays take a free whale watching guided tour on the island .

Weather, temperature and rainfall

Summer temperature

Average

20°C and 27°C

Highest recorded

43.3°C

Winter temperature

Average

10°C and 20°C

Lowest recorded

-3.2°C

Rainfall

Wettest month

March

Driest month

September

The area’s highest recorded rainfall in one day

404.6mm

Facilities

Step-free access

There are step-free concrete pathways that go from the carpark and across the breakwall to the learning space. At the learning space, there's a timber boardwalk that leads through the area.

  • Step-free outdoor pathways

Seats and resting points

There are timber bench seats at the learning space.

Maps and downloads

Safety messages

Beach safety

Beaches in this park are not patrolled, and can sometimes have strong rips and currents. These beach safety tips will help you and your family stay safe in the water.

Mobile safety

Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

Accessibility

Disability access level - easy

Muttonbird Island Outdoor learning space is flat and step-free, with the following accessible features:

  • Accessible parking spaces in the carparks mid-way along the breakwall and on the western end of the breakwall
  • Flat, concrete pathways that lead across the breakwall to the learning space
  • Timber bench seats for resting at the learning space

Prohibited

Drones

Flying a drone for recreational purposes is prohibited in this area. Drones may affect public enjoyment, safety and privacy, interfere with park operations, or pose a threat to wildlife. See the Drones in Parks policy.

This area may be a declared Drone Exclusion Zone, or may be subject to Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) rules for flying near airports, aerodromes and helicopter landing sites. See CASA's Drone Flyer Rules.

Commercial filming and photography

Commercial filming or photography is prohibited without prior consent. You must apply for permission and contact the local office.

Pets

Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

Smoking

NSW national parks are no smoking areas.

Map of Muttonbird Island Outdoor Learning Experience

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