Discover the Serenity of Cook Island Nature Reserve
Explore the breathtaking Cook Island Nature Reserve, a coastal sanctuary in New South Wales, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Nestled off the coast of Fingal Head, the Cook Island Nature Reserve is a breathtaking escape into Australia’s natural beauty. This stunning sanctuary is famous for its pristine beaches, diverse marine life, and rich bird habitat, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and tourists alike. Explore the captivating scenery, take a leisurely walk along the coastline, or indulge in snorkeling to witness the vibrant underwater world. Cook Island promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of New South Wales.
A brief summary to Cook Island Nature Reserve
- RH3H+M6, Fingal Head, New South Wales, 2487, AU
- +61266708600
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring snorkeling gear to fully enjoy the marine life and vibrant coral reefs.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, as amenities are limited within the reserve.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, as the trails can be uneven.
- Check local tide times before your visit to ensure safe access to the island.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the Byron Bay town center, head east on Jonson Street towards the beach. Continue straight until you reach the beach and turn left onto the coastal path. Follow the path north along the beach. After approximately 30 minutes of walking, you will reach the Fingal Head area. Look for signs indicating the Cook Island Nature Reserve, which is located near the Fingal Head Lighthouse.
-
Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from one of the bike rental shops in Byron Bay. Start at the town center and ride east on Jonson Street towards the beach. Continue along the coastal path, which is suitable for bicycles, heading north. After about 30 minutes, you will arrive at Fingal Head. Follow the signs to Cook Island Nature Reserve, which is located near the lighthouse.
-
Public Transport (Bus)
Head to the nearest bus stop in Byron Bay and take the Tweed Heads bus (Route 605). The bus will take you towards Fingal Head. Request to get off at the Fingal Head stop. From there, walk towards the coast and follow the signs to Cook Island Nature Reserve, which is located near the lighthouse.
Discover more about Cook Island Nature Reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Point Danger
4.4 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of Point Danger, a coastal gem in Coolangatta, Queensland, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Palm Beach Parklands
12.4 km
Explore the lush beauty and recreational wonders of Palm Beach Parklands, a serene escape along Queensland's stunning Gold Coast, perfect for tourists and nature lovers.
Palm Beach Artificial Reef
14.4 km
Explore the vibrant marine life at Palm Beach Artificial Reef, a premier destination for diving and snorkeling in Queensland's stunning coastal waters.
Burleigh
16.0 km
Explore Burleigh Headland: A Coastal Gem in Queensland with Scenic Views, Hiking Trails, and Rich Wildlife.
Clothiers Creek
16.1 km
Explore the tranquil Clothiers Creek in New South Wales, a seasonal river offering picturesque views and a peaceful escape into nature.
Burleigh Headland (Big Burleigh)
16.2 km
Explore Burleigh Headland for breathtaking ocean views, scenic hiking trails, and a chance to connect with nature in Queensland's coastal paradise.
Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre
16.3 km
Discover the vibrant traditions and artistic expressions of the Aboriginal culture at Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Burleigh Heads, Queensland.
Jebbribillum Lookout
16.5 km
Experience breathtaking coastal views and serene nature at Jebbribillum Lookout in Burleigh Heads, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Burleigh Hill
16.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene picnicking at Burleigh Hill, the perfect getaway in Burleigh Heads, Queensland.
Hola Coast burley
17.0 km
Experience the beauty of Hola Coast Burley, a top tourist attraction in Queensland, where stunning beaches and local culture await every traveler.
Burleigh Heads QLD
17.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Burleigh Heads Park, where lush rainforests meet pristine beaches in Queensland's stunning coastal paradise.
Burleigh Heads (last Sunday)-Art and Craft on the Coast Beachfront Markets
17.5 km
Experience the charm of Burleigh Heads Art and Craft Markets, a vibrant celebration of local creativity and delicious flavors by the beach.
Tallebudgera Creek
17.6 km
Explore Tallebudgera Creek in Queensland, a stunning waterway perfect for swimming, kayaking, and embracing nature's tranquility.
Burleigh Beach
17.8 km
Discover Burleigh Beach, a stunning Queensland destination offering golden sands, surf-friendly waves, and breathtaking natural beauty for an unforgettable getaway.
Inside Gold Coast
18.1 km
Explore Queensland's Gold Coast with Inside Gold Coast, your ultimate guide to attractions, dining, and local experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fingal Head Causeway
0.8 km
Explore Fingal Head Causeway, a stunning natural attraction in New South Wales, known for its unique rock formations and breathtaking coastal views.
Lighthouse Parade
1.2 km
Explore the stunning coastal views and rich history of Lighthouse Parade in Fingal Head, NSW, perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Tweed Heads Historic Site
2.9 km
Explore the natural beauty and rich history of Tweed Heads Historic Site, a serene park ideal for relaxation and cultural discovery in New South Wales.
Captain Cook Memorial and Lighthouse
4.3 km
Explore the historic Captain Cook Memorial and Lighthouse in Tweed Heads, where breathtaking views meet rich maritime history.
Coolangatta Beach
4.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Coolangatta Beach, a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and coastal charm on Queensland's Gold Coast.
Kirra Beach
5.9 km
Experience the beauty and adventure of Kirra Beach in Queensland, Australia, where sun, surf, and stunning scenery await every visitor.
Gold Coast Skydive
6.0 km
Experience the thrill of skydiving over the stunning Gold Coast, Australia, where breathtaking views meet exhilarating adventures.
Kingscliff Visitor Information Centre
6.7 km
Explore Kingscliff with ease at the Visitor Information Centre, your first stop for local adventures and essential travel tips.
Catch A Crab
7.4 km
Discover the thrill of crab catching and savor fresh seafood at Catch A Crab in beautiful West Tweed Heads, a unique aquatic adventure awaits you!
Welcome to Queensland Sign
9.1 km
Discover the iconic Welcome to Queensland Sign in Tugun, your gateway to adventure and stunning coastal experiences in Australia.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
11.0 km
Explore Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: A premier destination for wildlife encounters and conservation in Queensland's stunning natural setting.
Honeyworld Gold Coast
11.1 km
Explore the sweet world of honey at Honeyworld Gold Coast, where delightful tastings and educational experiences await in Currumbin, Queensland.
Tropical Fruit World
11.2 km
Explore the exotic flavors and vibrant landscapes of Tropical Fruit World, a unique farm experience in Duranbah, NSW, perfect for all fruit lovers.
Currumbin Beach
11.7 km
Experience the sun-kissed shores of Currumbin Beach in Queensland, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for all beach lovers.
Currumbin
12.0 km
Explore the stunning beaches, wildlife attractions, and serene landscapes of Currumbin, a quintessential Gold Coast destination in Queensland, Australia.
Essential places to dine
Cooly Breeze Rooftop Restaurant & Bar
4.7 km
Experience fine Mediterranean dining with breathtaking ocean views at Cooly Breeze Rooftop Restaurant & Bar in Coolangatta.
Tommy’s Italian
11.5 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Tommy’s Italian in Currumbin - where tradition meets coastal charm.
Balboa Italian Restaurant
13.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Balboa Italian Restaurant in Palm Beach - where every meal feels like a celebration!
Paper Daisy
15.0 km
Experience culinary excellence at Paper Daisy in Cabarita Beach - where fresh local ingredients meet breathtaking coastal views.
Potager - A Kitchen Garden
15.9 km
Discover Potager - A Kitchen Garden: Where Culinary Excellence Meets Sustainable Practices in Carool's Scenic Landscape.
Rick Shores
16.9 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining with stunning ocean views at Burleigh Heads' premier restaurant, Rick Shores.
The Tropic
16.9 km
Experience modern Australian cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at The Tropic in Burleigh Heads.
Jimmy Wah's
17.2 km
Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors fused with modern Asian cuisine at Jimmy Wah's in Burleigh Heads—an unmissable dining gem on the Gold Coast.
Restaurant Labart
17.3 km
Experience culinary excellence at Restaurant Labart in Burleigh Heads - where local flavors meet innovative dining.
Maman Bar & Kitchen
17.3 km
Discover Maman Bar & Kitchen: A Culinary Gem in Burleigh Heads Offering Mediterranean Delights with Vegan and Gluten-Free Options.
Rabbath Lebanese Bistro
17.3 km
Experience the rich flavors of Lebanon at Rabbath Lebanese Bistro in Burleigh Heads – where every dish tells a story.
Seaside Kitchen & Bar
17.3 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors with stunning coastal views at Seaside Kitchen & Bar in Burleigh Heads.
The Little Plate
18.1 km
Experience global flavors at The Little Plate in Burleigh Heads - where culinary creativity meets local ingredients.
La Bella Cellar
18.1 km
Discover exquisite flavors at La Bella Cellar in Burleigh Heads - where culinary artistry meets coastal charm.
Willow Dining
18.4 km
Discover the exquisite taste of Modern Australian cuisine at Willow Dining, where innovation meets tradition in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tweed City Shopping Centre
3.2 km
Explore Tweed City Shopping Centre, a vibrant shopping hub in Tweed Heads offering diverse shops, dining, and entertainment for all ages.
The Strand at Coolangatta
5.0 km
Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at The Strand at Coolangatta, where ocean views and vibrant atmosphere await.
Cornerstone Stores
11.0 km
Explore Cornerstone Stores in Tugun for a unique shopping experience with a blend of fashion, beauty, and culinary delights.
Strange Days Store
13.3 km
Explore the charm of vintage shopping at Strange Days Store in Palm Beach, where unique clothing and sustainable fashion come together.
White Bohemian
13.5 km
Explore the charm of White Bohemian, a boutique gift shop in Palm Beach offering unique fashion, accessories, and homewares that embody a bohemian lifestyle.
Objects of Interest
16.3 km
Uncover unique gifts and charming homewares at Objects of Interest, a hidden gem in Tallebudgera, Queensland.
Love Burleigh - Australian Souvenir & Gift Store
17.2 km
Explore Love Burleigh for authentic Australian gifts, beachwear, and unique souvenirs in the heart of Burleigh Heads, Queensland.
Bliss & Beyond Burleigh Heads
17.2 km
Explore Bliss & Beyond in Burleigh Heads for unique gifts, trendy fashion accessories, and stylish homewares that capture the essence of coastal living.
The Freedom State
17.3 km
Explore The Freedom State in Burleigh Heads for unique, stylish clothing that reflects the vibrant Australian lifestyle.
Miso Miso
17.3 km
Discover a unique gift shop in Burleigh Heads offering books, cosmetics, homewares, and organic products - perfect for all your souvenir needs!
Doré Burleigh
17.3 km
Explore Doré Burleigh, a boutique clothing store in Burleigh Heads that offers stunning fashion pieces blending beach vibes with contemporary trends.
Change Alley Gold Coast Boutiques
17.4 km
Explore Change Alley Gold Coast Boutiques for a unique shopping experience offering stylish women's clothing and accessories in Burleigh Waters.
Proud Poppy Burleigh Heads
17.5 km
Explore unique Australian fashion at Proud Poppy Burleigh Heads, where style meets comfort in a picturesque coastal setting.
Feather Fox Boutique + Studio
17.7 km
Explore Feather Fox Boutique + Studio for unique clothing and homewares in the heart of Burleigh Heads, blending fashion and artistry in one charming location.
The Self Styler
18.0 km
Explore The Self Styler in Burleigh Heads for a unique shopping experience filled with stylish apparel and personalized service.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
THE CRAFTY COW BAR & SMOKEHOUSE
11.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of expertly smoked meats and a vibrant atmosphere at The Crafty Cow Bar & Smokehouse in Casuarina.
Suga
13.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Palm Beach at Suga, where signature cocktails and great tunes create the perfect evening escape.
Tumbulgum Tavern
14.5 km
Experience the heart of Tumbulgum with delicious food, scenic river views, and a vibrant atmosphere at the Tumbulgum Tavern.
Burleigh Town Hotel
16.5 km
Discover the lively Burleigh Town Hotel, a perfect blend of pub and bistro experience on the stunning Gold Coast.
Burleigh Pavilion
16.9 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance and stunning ocean views at Burleigh Pavilion, the perfect coastal retreat on the Gold Coast.
Paloma Wine Bar
17.2 km
Discover exceptional wines and a cozy atmosphere at Paloma Wine Bar in Burleigh Heads, where every sip tells a story.
Pink Monkey Bar & Grill
17.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering grilled dishes at Pink Monkey Bar & Grill in Burleigh Heads, Queensland.
Lockwood Bar
17.2 km
Experience the best cocktails in Burleigh Heads at Lockwood Bar, where creativity meets a vibrant nightlife scene.
Nightjar
17.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Nightjar, Burleigh Heads' go-to bar for creative cocktails and an eclectic atmosphere.
Rosella's
17.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious Australian cuisine at Rosella's, a premier bar on the Gold Coast, perfect for cocktails and dining.
Burleigh Heads Hotel
17.3 km
Discover Burleigh Heads Hotel: A vibrant pub and bistro offering stunning coastal views, delicious food, and refreshing drinks for the ultimate relaxation experience.
The Malibu Racquet Club
17.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Malibu Racquet Club in Burleigh Heads, where great cocktails and coastal views meet.
NAÂMi
17.3 km
Discover NAÂMi, a stylish cocktail bar in Burleigh Heads offering exquisite drinks, live music, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Apres Surf
17.3 km
Discover Apres Surf in Burleigh Heads, a vibrant bar and restaurant offering delicious cocktails and a relaxed beachside atmosphere in Queensland.
The Cambus Wallace
20.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at The Cambus Wallace, a must-visit bar and restaurant on the Gold Coast.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rattlesnake Nightclub
5.2 km
Discover the vibrant energy of Rattlesnake Nightclub in Coolangatta, a top destination for nightlife, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Snesh Central.
16.4 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at Snesh Central in Burleigh Heads, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories come together.
Club Burleigh
16.8 km
Discover the lively Club Burleigh, where exquisite dining meets vibrant entertainment on the stunning Gold Coast.
E.L.E. - Everybody Love Everybody
17.2 km
Experience vibrant cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere at E.L.E. - Everybody Love Everybody in Burleigh Heads, the perfect spot for a night out.
Mo's Desert Clubhouse
18.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and culture at Mo's Desert Clubhouse, a unique bar and live music venue in Burleigh Heads.
Kurrawa Beach Club
23.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Kurrawa Beach Club, where stunning ocean views meet delicious cocktails and lively entertainment in Broadbeach.
Atlantis Nightclub
23.4 km
Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Atlantis Nightclub, where top DJs and a vibrant crowd create unforgettable nights in Broadbeach.
The Envy Hotel
23.4 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of The Envy Hotel, where dining meets dancing in the heart of Broadbeach.
Baby Grand Lounge
23.5 km
Experience the elegance of Baby Grand Lounge in Broadbeach, where exceptional cocktails meet vibrant entertainment for a night to remember.
Memory Lane Broadbeach
23.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and fun at Memory Lane Broadbeach, a must-visit lounge in the heart of Queensland's vibrant coast.
Magic Men
26.0 km
Discover the electric atmosphere of Magic Men in Surfers Paradise, where captivating performances and vibrant nightlife create unforgettable experiences.
Retro's Surfers Paradise
26.1 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Retro's Surfers Paradise, where dance, cocktails, and vibrant energy come together.
elsewhere
26.1 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Elsewhere, a premier night club in Surfers Paradise, renowned for live music and vibrant atmosphere.
Asylum Nightclub
26.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and electrifying beats at Asylum Nightclub in Surfers Paradise, your ultimate dance destination.
Empire R&B Nightclub
26.1 km
Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Empire R&B Nightclub in Surfers Paradise, where unforgettable nights filled with music and dance await.