An island sanctuary self-guided audio tour

Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve

Open, check current alerts 

Overview

Go on a self-guided audio tour with Matt Flanders across Muttonbird Island and discover the significance of this bustling seabird rookery. Take in the spectacular views as you stroll towards the eastern lookout and learn about the shearwaters that nest here.

Where
Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve in North Coast
Distance
1.3km
Time suggested
45min
Grade
Medium. This 8-stop tour takes place on a boardwalk that goes across the island. It has mostly gentle hills, with an initial steep climb.
What to
bring
Mobile phone, headphones, drinking water, hat, sunscreen, suitable clothing, snacks
Please note

It's a good idea to download the app and tour before your visit, because there is limited mobile reception in this park.

Although it may appear rather sparse at first, Muttonbird Island is rich in both natural and cultural values. It’s also one of the only seabird breeding grounds along the NSW coast that you can reach without taking a boat or helicopter.

On this audio tour, Matt will share the culture and history of the island, along with some interesting facts about muttonbirds. Walk along the paved path at your own pace and drink in the spectacular 360-degree views of the Coffs Coast, Solitary Islands Marine Park and the Great Eastern Escarpment while you listen.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

This tour takes you past

  • Outdoor learning space, Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve. Photo © Rob Cleary

    Muttonbird Island Outdoor learning space

    Explore Aboriginal history and Dreamtime stories at Giidany Miirlarl, also known as Muttonbird Island, near Coffs Harbour.

  • People at the Eastern side lookout. Photo © Rob Cleary

    Eastern Side lookout

    The Eastern Side lookout offers spectacular views of the Solitary Islands. A short walk from the carpark, it’s a great place for whale watching in the heart of Coffs Harbour.

Current alerts in this area

There are no current alerts in this area.

Local alerts

For the latest updates on fires, closures and other alerts in this area, see https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/immersive-stories/island-sanctuary-self-guided-audio-tour/local-alerts

Park info

See more visitor info

Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about An island sanctuary self-guided audio tour.

Getting there and parking

From Coffs Harbour:

  • Follow Harbour Drive, then take Marina Drive to the waterfront and marina

or

  • Take Orlando Street and cross the railway line to Coffs Harbour Yacht Club

Maps and downloads

Safety messages

Check the weather before you go and take appropriate clothing as the island is very exposed to the elements. It’s also a good idea to check current alerts for closures and safety updates.

This seabird rookery has unfenced rocky cliffs, especially as you approach the eastern lookout. Please take care and always supervise children.

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

The walk across Muttonbird Island is along a formed track that's a mixture of pavers and metal mesh boardwalk. There are 3 benches along the way where you can stop and rest. 

People with reduced mobility may need assistance in the following areas:

  • There are 10 timber steps just past the Muttonbird Island Outdoor learning space. The steps have a handrail.
  • After the steps, there's an initial steep climb along a formed path to get to the top of the island. The rest of the walk is mainly gentle hills.