Montague Island

Just off the coast of Narooma on the NSW South Coast, Montague Island is a wild, windswept sanctuary that feels like a secret world apart. This 82-hectare island is a haven for seabirds, fur seals, and migrating whales, and its heritage-listed lighthouse complex adds a layer of human history to the raw natural beauty. Getting here is part of the adventure—only by boat, which makes the experience feel exclusive and intimate.

Highlights & What to See

• Guided lighthouse tours: Climb the 1881 granite lighthouse for panoramic views of the island and coast, and hear tales of the keepers who once lived here.
• Seal colony encounters: Thousands of Australian and New Zealand fur seals haul out on the rocks—you can snorkel or dive with them in the clear, temperate waters.
• Seabird breeding season: From October to March, watch little penguins, shearwaters, and crested terns nesting; guided evening tours let you see penguins waddling ashore at dusk.
• Whale watching: Between May and November, humpback and southern right whales pass close to the island on their migration—spot them from the boat or the lighthouse.
• Pristine marine reserve: The surrounding waters are part of a protected zone, offering exceptional snorkelling and diving among kelp forests and colourful fish.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan a full day for a Montague Island trip. Most tours depart Narooma in the morning (around 8–9am) and return by mid-afternoon (around 3–4pm). This gives you about 2–3 hours on the island itself, plus boat time for seal and whale spotting. If you're a keen diver or photographer, consider booking a specialist tour that extends your time on the water. The experience is weather-dependent, so allow a flexible day in your itinerary.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Narooma: The gateway town with a lovely waterfront, boardwalk, and the famous 'Australia Rock'—worth a stroll and a seafood lunch before or after your island trip.
• Bermagui: A charming fishing village 20 minutes south, with great cafes, a scenic harbour, and access to the stunning Camel Rock and Horseshoe Bay.
• Mystery Bay: A quiet, unpatrolled beach perfect for a peaceful swim or picnic, just south of Narooma.
• Eurobodalla National Park: Coastal bushwalks, lagoons, and birdwatching along the stretch between Narooma and Batemans Bay.
• Batemans Bay: A larger town 45 minutes north, offering oyster farms, the Clyde River estuary, and access to Murramarang National Park.

Please check official sources for current details.