Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve: A Coastal Sanctuary
Explore a sacred island sanctuary in Coffs Harbour: witness migrating birds, spot whales, and discover Aboriginal Dreamtime stories.
Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve, known as Giidany Miirlarl to the local Gumbaynggirr people, is a captivating island sanctuary connected to Coffs Harbour's Jetty precinct by a breakwall. This easily accessible reserve offers stunning coastal views, abundant wildlife, and a rich Aboriginal heritage. It's a significant breeding ground for wedge-tailed shearwaters (muttonbirds) and a prime location for whale watching.
A brief summary to Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve
- 32 Marina Dr, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, 2450, AU
- +61266520900
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the muttonbird nesting season (August to April) for the best chance to see the birds returning to their burrows at dusk.
- Bring binoculars to enhance your whale watching experience during the migration season (May to November).
- Stay on the paved tracks to protect the fragile muttonbird burrows and avoid disturbing the nesting birds.
- Take a guided tour with Aboriginal Discovery Rangers to learn about the island's cultural significance and Dreamtime stories.
Getting There
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Walking
Muttonbird Island is easily accessible from the Coffs Harbour Jetty area. From the marina car park, it's a short, scenic 5-minute walk along the paved breakwall walkway or the marina boardwalk to the base of the island. The walk to the top of the island is a 500m steep incline. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear, protect yourself from the sun, and bring water.
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Public Transport
If arriving by public transport, take a local bus to the Coffs Harbour Transit Centre. From there, it is approximately a 20-minute walk to Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve. Head east on Gordon St, then turn right onto Marina Dr and continue toward the coast. Bus lines 3416 and 3515 stop near Mutton Bird Island Nature Reserve. A single bus fare will cost approximately $3-$5.
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Parking
If driving, follow Harbour Drive, then take Marina Drive to the waterfront and marina. Parking is available in and around the marina and waterfront precinct off Marina Drive. There are two accessible parking spaces in front of the Fishermans Co-Op, mid-way along the breakwall, with a ramp leading up to the breakwall. There are also accessible parking spaces in the carpark at Northwall, on the western end of the breakwall. Parking fees range from $2.50 to $4.80 per hour.
Discover more about Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Woolgoolga Creek
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Bobo River
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Mobong Creek
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Bellinger River
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Nambucca River
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Orara River
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Unmissable attractions to see
Eastern Side lookout
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Solitary Islands Marine Park
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WWII Coastal Observation Bunker
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North Wall Beach
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North Coast Regional Botanic Garden - Coffs Harbour
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The Clog Barn Tourist Attraction & Caravan Park
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Diggers Beach
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The Big Banana Fun Park
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Forest Sky Pier
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Coffs Harbour Butterfly House
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Solitary Islands coastal walk
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Lookout
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Look At Me Now Headland walk
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Bongil Bongil National Park
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North Beach
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Essential places to dine
Shearwater Restaurant
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Matilda's
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Malt & Honey Cafe
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Chop 'n Chill South West Rocks
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Thai on the rocks
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The Rocks Restaurant & Bar
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Riverside Tavern
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The Garden Bar & Kitchen
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Great Northern Hotel
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Toormina Gardens
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Moonee Market
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The Yellow Shed Bellingen
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The Collective Shop
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What Do You Think Miss Wink
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The Other Shop
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Somewhere.
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GOOD VIBES HOMEWARES
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Rocks Central Shopping Centre
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Grafton Shoppingworld
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Lisa & Co Boutique
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Zig Zag Boutique at Yamba
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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