An island sanctuary self-guided audio tour
Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve
Overview
Go on a self-guided audio tour with Matt Flanders across Muttonbird Island and discover the significance of this bustling seabird rookery. Take in the spectacular views as you stroll towards the eastern lookout and learn about the shearwaters that nest here.
- Accessibility
- Hard
- Distance
- 1.3km
- Time suggested
- 45min
- Grade
- Medium. This 8-stop tour takes place on a boardwalk that goes across the island. It has mostly gentle hills, with an initial steep climb.
- What to
bring - Mobile phone, headphones, drinking water, hat, sunscreen, suitable clothing, snacks
- Please note
It's a good idea to download the app and tour before your visit, because there is limited mobile reception in this park.
Although it may appear rather sparse at first, Muttonbird Island is rich in both natural and cultural values. It’s also one of the only seabird breeding grounds along the NSW coast that you can reach without taking a boat or helicopter.
On this audio tour, Matt will share the culture and history of the island, along with some interesting facts about muttonbirds. Walk along the paved path at your own pace and drink in the spectacular 360-degree views of the Coffs Coast, Solitary Islands Marine Park and the Great Eastern Escarpment while you listen.
This tour takes you past
-
Muttonbird Island Outdoor learning space
Explore Aboriginal history and Dreamtime stories at Giidany Miirlarl, also known as Muttonbird Island, near Coffs Harbour.
-
Eastern Side lookout
The Eastern Side lookout offers spectacular views of the Solitary Islands. A short walk from the carpark, it’s a great place for whale watching in the heart of Coffs Harbour.
Local alerts
For the latest updates on fires, closures and other alerts in this area, see https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/immersive-stories/island-sanctuary-self-guided-audio-tour/local-alerts
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.
Visitor info
All the practical information you need to know about An island sanctuary self-guided audio tour.
Getting there and parking
From Coffs Harbour:
- Follow Harbour Drive, then take Marina Drive to the waterfront and marina
or
- Take Orlando Street and cross the railway line to Coffs Harbour Yacht Club
Maps and downloads
Accessibility
Disability access level - hard
The walk across Muttonbird Island is along a formed track that's a mixture of pavers and metal mesh boardwalk. There are 3 benches along the way where you can stop and rest.
People with reduced mobility may need assistance in the following areas:
- There are 10 timber steps just past the Muttonbird Island Outdoor learning space. The steps have a handrail.
- After the steps, there's an initial steep climb along a formed path to get to the top of the island.
- The rest of the walk is mostly flat with a short, steep incline as you approach the Eastern Side lookout.