New South Wales · Attraction
Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve
Seabirds, whales and Gumbaynggirr stories
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Jutting into the Pacific at the end of Coffs Harbour's northern breakwater, Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve is one of the most accessible wildlife sanctuaries on the NSW coast. A short walk along the causeway brings you to a windswept headland where more than 5,500 pairs of wedge-tailed shearwaters nest each year, and panoramic views stretch from the hinterland ranges to the Solitary Islands.
The island, known to the Gumbaynggirr people as Giidany Miirlarl, carries deep cultural significance. Interpretive signs along the circuit walk share Dreaming stories connected to the shearwaters, birds the Gumbaynggirr observed migrating annually to south-east Asia long before European settlement. Guided Discovery tours led by local Gumbaynggirr rangers bring these stories to life, and popular twilight tours run during the nesting season.
From the eastern lookout, humpback and southern right whales can be spotted migrating along the coast between May and November. The vantage point is one of the best free whale-watching spots on the mid-north coast, with nothing between you and the open ocean.
Access is free and the reserve is open every day, though it may close temporarily in severe weather or high fire danger. Parking is at Coffs Harbour Marina off Marina Drive. Drones and pets are not permitted on the island.
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Scenic views
