Montague Island

Rising from the Tasman Sea nine kilometres off the coast of Narooma, Montague Island is a wild, windswept sanctuary that feels a world away from the mainland. This rugged outcrop is one of New South Wales' most important seabird and seal colonies, where the cacophony of thousands of shearwaters, penguins and gulls mingles with the crash of waves against granite cliffs. A visit here is a raw immersion in coastal wildlife, best experienced on a guided tour that reveals the island's lighthouse history and its role as a refuge for endangered little penguins and Australian fur seals.

Highlights & What to See

• Little Penguin Colony: Montague Island hosts one of the largest little penguin populations in NSW. Join a twilight tour to watch these enchanting birds waddle ashore after a day at sea.
• Australian Fur Seals: The island's rocky ledges are a haul-out spot for hundreds of seals, and you'll often see them basking, sparring and swimming in the clear waters below the cliffs.
• Lighthouse & Heritage: The 1881 lighthouse, still operational, offers panoramic views of the coastline. Tours include the keeper's quarters and tales of shipwrecks and isolation.
• Seabird Spectacle: Over 90 bird species have been recorded here, including shearwaters, crested terns and white-bellied sea eagles. The sheer volume of birds in flight is mesmerising.
• Snorkelling & Diving: The marine park surrounding the island boasts kelp forests, sponge gardens and grey nurse sharks – a top spot for experienced divers.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a half-day on the island, arriving by tour boat from Narooma. A typical guided tour lasts around 4–5 hours, including a walk to the lighthouse, seal viewing and penguin watching at dusk. If you're keen on diving, budget a full day to combine a boat trip with underwater exploration. The island is exposed to weather, so always confirm conditions with your tour operator.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Narooma – The charming coastal town with its iconic 'Australia Rock' and boardwalk along Wagonga Inlet.
• Eurobodalla National Park – Stunning beaches, coastal walks and camping spots south of Narooma.
• Mogo – A historic gold-mining village with a zoo, boutiques and a lively pub.
• Batemans Bay – The gateway to the Eurobodalla region, famous for its oysters and Clyde River cruises.
• Gulaga National Park – Home to Gulaga Mountain, a sacred site for the local Yuin people, with walking tracks through ancient rainforest.

Please check official sources for current details.