Macauleys Headland

Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve Walk

Muttonbird Island is the jewel in the crown of Coffs Harbour. Surrounded by ocean sparkling in shades of blue, the island affords views of the Coffs Coast and hinterland from a unique, off-shore perspective.

The outdoor learning centre will enrich the experience by providing fascinating cultural information. The eastern lookout offers spectacular views of the Solitary Islands, and between May and November this is the perfect spot for whale watching.

The Detailed Experience


The walk begins at the Coffs Harbour Marina. As you stroll along the break wall, with the ocean sparkling with turquoise and deep sapphire hues, you may glimpse a dolphin, sea turtle, school of fish, or stingray.

At the end of the break wall, at the foot of Muttonbird Island, is the award-winning Muttonbird Island outdoor learning space. Learn about fascinating traditional Aboriginal Dreamtime stories like the giant moon-man guardian who protected the island.

The trail up Muttonbird Island is sealed but steep. For those needing to catch their breath there is a bench halfway up that provides a superb view of the marina. As you walk along the track to the lookout at the top, on either side of the path you’ll notice open burrows. This is an important roosting and breeding site for the Wedge-tailed Shearwater. Signage along the way explains the lifecycle of these migratory birds. It is important to stay on the track as the burrows are extremely fragile and the plant cover provides little protection from cave-ins which can be disastrous for the birds.

The eastern lookout is perched above wave-worn rock platforms at the far end of the walkway. The lookout affords year round unimpeded views of Solitary Islands Marine Park. Between May and November you might see humpback whales on their annual migration. On a clear day you can see South West Rocks in the south and north to Woolgoolga.

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