Muttonbird Island Outdoor learning space
Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve
Visitor info
All the practical information you need to know about Muttonbird Island Outdoor learning space.
Getting there and parking
Muttonbird Island outdoor learning space is located at the base of the western side of the island.
Parking
Parking is available in and around the marina and waterfront precinct off Marina Drive, a short walk from Muttonbird Discovery display.
Accessible parking is available:
- There are 2 accessible parking spaces in front of the Fishermans Co-Op, mid-way along breakwall. From these parking spaces, there's a ramp that leads up to the breakwall.
- There are also accessible parking spaces in the carpark at Northwall, on the western end of the breakwall.
Best times to visit
There are lots of great things waiting for you in Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve. Here are some of the highlights.
Autumn
Take the ‘Muttonbirds by Moonlight' guided tour to find out more about the muttonbird parents' and fledglings' migratory journey to southeast Asia.
Spring
Head to the island's peak or eastern side to look for migrating whales – make sure to take your binoculars Muttonbirds will be breeding and nesting at this time of year, so look closely for them and be very careful not to disturb them .
Summer
Look for dolphins in the water and sea turtles around the marina area.
Winter
Guided tours to the South Solitary Island include a return helicopter flight and guided inspection of the lighthouse keepers' buildings and surrounds. They are only available for two weekends every year so you'll need to book ahead – check out the Precision Helicopters website to find out more about scenic flights and tours. During the school holidays take a free whale watching guided tour on the island .
Weather, temperature and rainfall
Summer temperature
Average
20°C and 27°C
Highest recorded
43.3°C
Winter temperature
Average
10°C and 20°C
Lowest recorded
-3.2°C
Rainfall
Wettest month
March
Driest month
September
The area’s highest recorded rainfall in one day
404.6mm
Facilities
Step-free access
There are step-free concrete pathways that go from the carpark and across the breakwall to the learning space. At the learning space, there's a timber boardwalk that leads through the area.
- Step-free outdoor pathways
Seats and resting points
There are timber bench seats at the learning space.
Maps and downloads
Accessibility
Disability access level - easy
Muttonbird Island Outdoor learning space is flat and step-free, with the following accessible features:
- Accessible parking spaces in the carparks mid-way along the breakwall and on the western end of the breakwall
- Flat, concrete pathways that lead across the breakwall to the learning space
- Timber bench seats for resting at the learning space
Prohibited
Drones
Flying a drone for recreational purposes is prohibited in this area. Drones may affect public enjoyment, safety and privacy, interfere with park operations, or pose a threat to wildlife. See the Drones in Parks policy.
This area may be a declared Drone Exclusion Zone, or may be subject to Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) rules for flying near airports, aerodromes and helicopter landing sites. See CASA's Drone Flyer Rules.
Commercial filming and photography
Commercial filming or photography is prohibited without prior consent. You must apply for permission and contact the local office.
Pets
Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.
Smoking
NSW national parks are no smoking areas.
Operated by
- Coffs Harbour office
- Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm.
- 02 6652 0900
- npws.coffscoast@environment.nsw.gov.au
- 4/32 Edgar St, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450
Park info
- in Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve in the North Coast region
Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.