Broulee Island Nature Reserve

Just off the coast of Broulee, a sleepy village on the NSW South Coast, Broulee Island Nature Reserve is a tiny gem of windswept granite, sheltered coves and dazzling blue water. Connected to the mainland by a tombolo (a sand spit) that appears at low tide, the island feels like a secret escape — a place where you can have a whole stretch of beach to yourself, watch seabirds wheel overhead, and soak in the raw coastal beauty of the Eurobodalla region. It’s a perfect half-day detour for anyone driving the Princes Highway between Sydney and Melbourne.

Highlights & What to See

• Walk the island loop: A short, easy track (about 1.5 km) circles the island, offering panoramic views of the ocean, Broulee Beach and the distant mountains. The path is dotted with interpretive signs about the local Aboriginal heritage and the island’s role as a former whaling station.
• Spot wildlife: The reserve is a haven for birdlife — look for white-bellied sea eagles, peregrine falcons and little penguins that nest in the granite crevices. You might also see eastern grey kangaroos grazing on the headland.
• Swim or snorkel at Broulee Beach: The main beach on the mainland side is patrolled in summer and has gentle waves, perfect for families. The clear water around the island is great for snorkelling, especially near the rocky points where fish and rays congregate.
• Explore the rock pools: At low tide, the granite platforms reveal vibrant rock pools teeming with anemones, crabs and tiny fish — a hit with kids and marine enthusiasts.
• Photography at sunrise or sunset: The island’s rocky silhouette against the golden sky, with the surf crashing on the tombolo, is a photographer’s dream.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can comfortably explore the island loop walk, dip your toes in the water and enjoy a picnic in about 2–3 hours. If you want to linger for a swim or snorkel, plan for half a day. The island is only accessible at low tide (check the local tide charts), so time your visit accordingly — the tombolo is usually passable for about two hours either side of low tide. Combine it with a morning coffee in Broulee village or a seafood lunch at the nearby Mossy Point Café.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Broulee Beach – A long, sandy stretch with a relaxed vibe, perfect for swimming and sunbaking.
• Mossy Point – A tiny coastal hamlet with a great café (The Mossy Café) and a scenic boardwalk along the Tomaga River estuary.
• Batemans Bay – The regional hub, 15 minutes north, with the Clyde River, oyster farms and the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden.
• Mogo – A historic gold-mining village with a zoo, artisan shops and the Mogo State Forest for bushwalking.
• Murramarang National Park – 30 minutes south, offering dramatic sea cliffs, the Pinnacles rock formation and excellent whale-watching in season.
• Deua National Park – Inland from Moruya, this park features the Big Hole (a collapsed limestone cave) and the spectacular Deua River Valley.

Please check official sources for current details.