Moonee Beach Nature Reserve
Witness wild kangaroos grazing by the ocean and explore stunning coastal vistas on accessible walking tracks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for wildlife & golden hour
Moonee Beach Nature Reserve
Best Time
Best for wildlife & golden hour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness wild kangaroos grazing by the ocean and explore stunning coastal vistas on accessible walking tracks.
"Seeing wild kangaroos on the beach is one of those iconic Aussie sights that visitors dream about!"
🎯 Best Time for Kangaroos
Visit at sunrise or sunset for the highest chance of seeing kangaroos grazing peacefully.
👟 Accessible Coastal Walk
The Look At Me Now Headland Walk is wheelchair accessible and offers stunning views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kangaroo Spotting
Look At Me Now Headland
Witness wild kangaroos grazing peacefully against a backdrop of stunning coastal scenery. A truly iconic Australian experience.
Look At Me Now Headland Walk
Moonee Beach Nature Reserve
An easy, accessible walk with breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and coastline. Perfect for all visitors.
Emerald Beach
Adjacent to Moonee Beach Nature Reserve
Golden sands meet crystal-clear waters, offering a serene spot for relaxation and enjoying the coastal beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Kangaroo Encounters & Coastal Views
Accessibility & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Best Time for Kangaroos
Visit at sunrise or sunset for the highest chance of seeing kangaroos grazing peacefully. 
👟 Accessible Coastal Walk
The Look At Me Now Headland Walk is wheelchair accessible and offers stunning views.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Capture magical moments with kangaroos during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
🚗 Easy Day Trip
Located just a short drive from Coffs Harbour, making it perfect for a day trip.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Best Time for Kangaroos
Visit at sunrise or sunset for the highest chance of seeing kangaroos grazing peacefully.
👟 Accessible Coastal Walk
The Look At Me Now Headland Walk is wheelchair accessible and offers stunning views.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Capture magical moments with kangaroos during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
🚗 Easy Day Trip
Located just a short drive from Coffs Harbour, making it perfect for a day trip.
🦘 Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from kangaroos and never feed them.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible opportunity to see wild kangaroos grazing near the ocean, calling it an iconic Australian experience. The accessible Look At Me Now Headland Walk is praised for its stunning coastal views, making it a highlight for all. While generally peaceful, some visitors note that it can get busy during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Moonee Beach Nature Reserve is conveniently located about a 30-minute drive north of Coffs Harbour. Simply head north on the Pacific Highway and follow the signs towards Emerald Beach.
Public transport options to Moonee Beach Nature Reserve are limited. It is best accessed by car. If traveling from further afield, consider a rental car from Coffs Harbour.
From Sydney, it's approximately a six-hour road trip north. From Port Macquarie, it's about a 2-hour drive.
Yes, there are parking areas available within the reserve, particularly near the Look At Me Now Headland.
While the reserve is a nature sanctuary, it's important to check specific local council regulations regarding pets, especially if you are traveling with dogs. Some areas may have restrictions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Moonee Beach Nature Reserve is generally free to enter, as it's part of the NSW National Parks system. Enjoy the natural beauty without an admission fee.
The nature reserve is typically open from dawn till dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery and wildlife throughout the day.
No, advance booking is not required for general entry to Moonee Beach Nature Reserve. It's a public access area.
While official guided tours may not be consistently available, the accessible walking tracks and abundant wildlife make it easy to explore independently.
Facilities can vary, but generally, you can expect picnic areas and walking trails. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most active times for kangaroos are typically early morning (sunrise) and late afternoon (sunset). This is also when the light is best for photos.
The Look At Me Now Headland Walk is an easy loop that takes approximately 20-30 minutes to complete, offering spectacular views.
Yes, Moonee Beach and the surrounding waters are suitable for swimming and snorkeling, offering a chance to explore the marine environment.
While kangaroos are the main draw, keep an eye out for various bird species and marine life, especially during whale watching season.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the trails. Bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and wear layers as coastal weather can change.
📸 📸 Photography
The Look At Me Now Headland offers panoramic views perfect for landscape photography. The areas where kangaroos graze are also prime spots for wildlife shots.
Golden hour, around sunrise and sunset, provides the most beautiful light for both landscapes and wildlife photography.
Drone usage in national parks is often restricted to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service regulations before flying a drone.
The most popular wildlife photography subject is the eastern grey kangaroo. Capturing them in their natural habitat with the coastal backdrop is a highlight.
Don't miss capturing the kangaroos with the ocean in the background, especially during the golden hours. The sweeping coastal vistas from the headland are also a must.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Pack a picnic to enjoy at the designated areas, and let the kids marvel at the unique Australian wildlife. The calm waters of Emerald Beach are also great for a supervised swim. Remember to bring plenty of sun protection, snacks, and water, as facilities can be limited. Visiting during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon, will make the experience more comfortable for everyone, and it's also prime time for kangaroo sightings.
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers
+1 Beyond this popular track, explore other hiking trails within the reserve that wind through diverse coastal vegetation, offering a more immersive nature experience. Keep an eye out for native birdlife and the iconic kangaroos that frequent the area. The reserve is a peaceful escape, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more invigorating hike, allowing you to connect with the natural beauty of the NSW North Coast.
📸 Photographers
+1 The Look At Me Now Headland provides sweeping vistas that are perfect for wide-angle shots, while the open grassy areas are ideal for photographing kangaroos in their natural environment. +1Remember to bring your telephoto lens for wildlife shots and a wide-angle lens for those expansive ocean views. Be patient, as the best shots often come from observing the kangaroos' natural behavior. Respecting their space is key to getting authentic and ethical wildlife photographs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters: Kangaroos at Moonee Beach
+2It's crucial to remember that these are wild animals. Visitors are strongly advised to maintain a safe distance and never attempt to feed them. This ensures the kangaroos' well-being and your safety. The best times for viewing are typically early morning and late afternoon, coinciding with the golden hours, which also provide stunning photographic opportunities.
+1Beyond kangaroos, the reserve is a haven for birdlife and offers chances to spot marine creatures. During migration seasons, the coastline is also known for whale watching, adding another layer of natural wonder to your visit.
Exploring the Look At Me Now Headland
+1From the headland, you'll be treated to sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean, the rugged coastline, and the picturesque beaches below. It's an ideal spot for landscape photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light paints the sky in vibrant colors. The elevated position also provides excellent vantage points for spotting marine life and, of course, the resident kangaroos grazing in the nearby fields.
+1This accessible trail ensures that everyone can experience the natural beauty of Moonee Beach Nature Reserve. It’s a place where you can connect with nature, enjoy stunning scenery, and potentially encounter some of Australia’s most beloved wildlife.
Activities and Water Sports
For those who enjoy being active, the reserve offers hiking trails beyond the main headland walk. These trails allow you to delve deeper into the coastal heath and woodlands, discovering hidden coves and diverse flora. Fishing is another popular pastime here, with opportunities to cast a line from the shore or designated fishing spots.
+1Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Moonee Beach Nature Reserve provides a diverse range of activities. From exploring the ocean to traversing scenic trails, there's something to engage every type of visitor.
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