Towra Spit Beach

Some of the birds that feed on the intertidal flats around Towra Point migrate over 12,000km, coming from as far away as Siberia, China and Japan. Nearly all the migratory birds here are wading birds or shorebirds.

You may spot a little tern, royal spoonbill, pied oystercatcher, or a Pacific golden plover when you visit the reserve; this is a great place for birdwatching and nature photography. Nearly all of the migratory birds use the Towra Point area are wading birds or shorebirds. Approximately 34 of the 80 species of migratory birds listed for protection have been recorded as using the Towra Point wetlands.

The beautiful coastal landscape of Towra Point is country for various Dharawal, Dharug and Eora nations. It has provided an abundant source of natural food, being especially rich in seafood and fresh drinking water, for thousands of years. This nature reserve is now a dedicated Aboriginal Place, in recognition of the natural and spiritual significance to this remarkable civilisation. Aboriginal sites, including middens and earth mounds, are all a part of Towra’s fascinating historic landscape.

The site of one of the first contacts between European and Aboriginal peoples, Towra Point is a hugely important place for Australia as we know it today. In April 1770, the Cook expedition explored the area and mapped Towra Lagoon as a source of fresh water. Botany Bay was also the site of some of Australia's first botanical collections by Joseph Banks and Daniel Solander; much of what they saw can still be seen here today.

Boating and kayaking through the maze of waterways is one way to see Towra Point Nature Reserve. Be sure to check the guidelines for the sanctuary and refuge zones to help preserve these wetlands of international significance. Towra Spit Beach is a popular destination in summer with boaties, who are tempted by the views stretching from Botany Bay to Sans Souci.