Moonee Beach Nature Reserve

Moonee Beach Nature Reserve is a coastal gem on the New South Wales North Coast, just north of Coffs Harbour. This protected area offers a pristine blend of sandy beaches, rocky headlands, and lush coastal rainforest, making it a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape. The reserve is part of the Solitary Islands Marine Park, so the marine life is as rich as the terrestrial. Whether you're swimming, bushwalking, or simply soaking up the serenity, Moonee Beach feels wonderfully undeveloped and wild.

Highlights & What to See

• Moonee Beach – a stunning, patrolled beach with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming, surfing, and long walks. The southern end is dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend.
• Moonee Creek – a peaceful tidal creek that flows into the beach, great for kayaking, paddleboarding, or spotting waterbirds like herons and kingfishers.
• Lookout Point Walk – an easy 1.5 km trail through coastal heath and rainforest to a headland lookout with sweeping views of the Solitary Islands and the surrounding coastline.
• Solitary Islands Coastal Walk – the reserve is a section of this longer 60 km walking track, offering a fantastic day-hike option from Moonee Beach to Emerald Beach or further south.
• Picnic and BBQ facilities – well-maintained areas shaded by paperbarks, ideal for a family lunch after a swim.
• Wildlife spotting – keep an eye out for sea eagles, dolphins, and migrating whales (June–November) from the headland.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a few hours to a full day here. If you want to swim, picnic, and do the Lookout Point Walk, allow at least 3–4 hours. For a more immersive experience, combine the walk with kayaking on the creek or a longer section of the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk. The reserve is compact, so it's easy to pack in a lot without rushing. Sunset is particularly magical, with the golden light over the beach and headland.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour – just 15 minutes south, offering the Big Banana, the Jetty Strip cafes, and the Coffs Harbour Botanic Garden.
• Emerald Beach – a quieter, equally beautiful beach to the north, with a popular café and a great surf break.
• Sawtell – a charming seaside village 20 minutes south, known for its laid-back vibe, excellent bakeries, and the Sawtell Headland walking track.
• Dorrigo National Park – a 45-minute drive west into the escarpment, with ancient rainforests, waterfalls, and the Skywalk lookout.
• Solitary Islands Marine Park – a protected area offshore, ideal for snorkelling, diving, and boat tours to see turtles and colourful fish.

Please check official sources for current details.