Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve
Iconic nature reserve with steep walks, offering breathtaking coastal views and prime whale & dolphin watching.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Stunning sunset views
Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve
Best Time
Stunning sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic nature reserve with steep walks, offering breathtaking coastal views and prime whale & dolphin watching.
"Always worth the effort! It’s a steep walk over Muttonbird Island but the views are amazing."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk is steep in places; comfortable footwear is a must for the muttonbird island walk.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your whale and dolphin watching experience from the island's vantage points.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Coastal Views
Summit of Muttonbird Island
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the Coffs Coast, marina, and ocean. Perfect for photos!
+1
Whale and Dolphin Watching
Muttonbird Island lookout points
Prime land-based viewing spot for migrating whales (in season) and playful dolphins. Bring binoculars!
Seabird Rookery
Muttonbird Island burrows
Observe the fascinating nesting habits of muttonbirds in their natural habitat. A unique wildlife experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Climb
Respect the Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk is steep in places; comfortable footwear is a must for the muttonbird island walk.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your whale and dolphin watching experience from the island's vantage points.
🌬️ Dress for the Weather
It can get windy and cold, especially at sunset. Layers are recommended.
💧 No Toilets On Hill
Plan accordingly as there are no public toilets once you start climbing the hill.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk is steep in places; comfortable footwear is a must for the muttonbird island walk.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your whale and dolphin watching experience from the island's vantage points.
🌬️ Dress for the Weather
It can get windy and cold, especially at sunset. Layers are recommended.
💧 No Toilets On Hill
Plan accordingly as there are no public toilets once you start climbing the hill.
🍦 Grab an Ice Cream
Enjoy a treat from local vendors at the marina before or after your walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Muttonbird Island for its absolutely stunning panoramic views and excellent opportunities for whale and dolphin watching. The walk is described as challenging but rewarding, with many calling it a must-visit spot in Coffs Harbour. Some note the steepness of the path and the lack of facilities, advising visitors to prepare accordingly.
"Always worth the effort! It’s a steep walk over Muttonbird Island but the views are amazing. The ideal spot for whale watching in season, the closest you’ll get to them from land. Take your binoculars!
There are great cafes at the marina or Jetty beach for a drink before or after your walk.
There is no entry free. There are regulations as it is a nature reserve.
For those with mobility issues, who cannot tackle the steep pathways on either end of the island, or for those walking dogs (who aren’t allowed on the island itself) you will find a flat, long J-shaped path (cement and then bitumen) along the marina with views of the moored yachts, people fishing or snorkelling, the jetty and base of the island. There is some shade and seats at the base of the island, before you head up the steep path."
Zaffiro Beach House
"It’s a must visit spot if you love the nature sightseeing place. Coffs Harbour is an ideal stopover on your road trip to QLD. Winter time me and my boyfriend be there at 4:30ish the view is stunning. Appreciate the beautiful world and the quality time we spent together."
JJ F
"Stunning views. What an incredible place, my favorite in the Coffs. Not an easy walk for elderly people, even for an adult it could be challenging . Just make sure you get dressed properly for the wind and cold depending on time and weather.
I learned it the bad way.
No public toilets once you climbing the hill, no ramp access for a wheelchair to the hill.⛰️🏞️"
Henry Largo Zapata
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The reserve is accessible via a walk starting from the Coffs Harbour Marina. Follow the breakwall, and the trail up Muttonbird Island begins at its end.
Yes, there is parking available at the Coffs Harbour Marina, which is the starting point for the walk.
While there isn't a direct bus to the island itself, local buses can take you to the Coffs Harbour Marina area, from where you can walk to the reserve.
Unfortunately, the steep pathways on the island are not wheelchair accessible. However, a flat path along the marina offers views for those with mobility issues.
Coffs Harbour is a common stopover on road trips along Australia's East Coast. It's accessible by car and also has train services, though some journeys can be long. +2
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee to visit Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve. It's a free natural attraction.
Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve is generally accessible during daylight hours. As it's a natural reserve, there are no strict opening or closing times, but it's best visited during daylight for safety and enjoyment.
Guided tours are sometimes available, particularly for seabird viewing or cultural insights, but are not mandatory for general access. You can explore the island independently.
No, dogs are not permitted on Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve to protect the native wildlife.
While the island is accessible during daylight, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and to avoid disturbing the nesting birds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The muttonbird island walk involves a sealed but steep path. It's a rewarding climb offering incredible views, but can be challenging for some. +1
You can spot muttonbirds nesting, and if you're lucky, whales and dolphins offshore. It's a fantastic spot for nature observation. +1
Absolutely! The panoramic views, coastal scenery, and potential wildlife sightings make it a photographer's paradise, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Muttonbird Island, known as Giidany Miirlarl (moon sacred place) to the Gumbaynggirr people, is a significant cultural and natural site.
There are no public toilets or extensive facilities on the island itself. Benches are available for resting on the lower parts of the trail.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are great cafes and restaurants at the Coffs Harbour Marina and Jetty Beach, perfect for a meal before or after your visit.
While there are no dedicated picnic areas on the island itself, you can enjoy a picnic at the marina or nearby beaches before or after your walk.
There isn't a cafe directly on the island, but the nearby marina area offers several dining options, including ice cream shops.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer magical lighting for photography. The golden hour provides stunning colors over the coast and ocean.
Capture sweeping coastal landscapes, the marina, wildlife (birds, whales, dolphins), and the iconic lighthouse.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting like whales and dolphins.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The chance to spot birds and potentially whales or dolphins can be exciting for kids, making it an educational and engaging experience. Be aware that there are no toilets on the island itself, so plan accordingly. Dogs are not allowed, so leave furry family members at home. The stunning views provide a great backdrop for family photos, creating lasting memories of your Coffs Harbour visit.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
Consider timing your hike for sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and photographic opportunities.
Remember to bring water and dress in layers, as conditions can change. The challenging nature of the walk makes it a popular choice for those seeking an active way to experience the natural beauty of the region. 📸 Photographers & View Seekers
Capture sweeping vistas of the ocean, the Coffs Harbour coastline, and the marina. A wide-angle lens is perfect for the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing distant marine life like whales and dolphins. The island's unique topography and the dramatic interplay of light and shadow make for compelling shots. Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the seabirds in their natural habitat, though remember to maintain a respectful distance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Muttonbird Island Walk Experience
Along the way, you'll find benches to rest and catch your breath, offering moments to appreciate the surrounding scenery. The reserve is a crucial habitat for muttonbirds, and you might see their nesting burrows. It's important to be mindful of the wildlife and avoid disturbing them.
For those with mobility concerns or who prefer a flatter route, a paved path runs along the marina, providing lovely views of the boats and the base of the island without the strenuous climb.
Wildlife Spotting: Whales, Dolphins, and Birds
Beyond whales, you might also be lucky enough to see dolphins playing in the waters around the island. The reserve is also home to a significant seabird rookery, with muttonbirds (also known as shearwaters) nesting in burrows on the island.
Remember that Muttonbird Island is a protected nature reserve, and its inhabitants should be observed from a safe distance. The Solitary Islands Marine Park, which the island borders, is a haven for diverse marine life, making the entire area a fantastic spot for nature sightseeing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit