Montague Island

Rising from the Tasman Sea just off the Sapphire Coast, Montague Island is a wild, windswept sanctuary where seabirds and seals outnumber humans. This 82-hectare nature reserve, known to the local Aboriginal people as Barunguba, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking a raw, coastal escape. Accessible only by boat, the island offers a rare glimpse into an untamed ecosystem, with guided tours led by National Parks rangers that reveal its fascinating history as a lighthouse station and its current role as a critical breeding ground for little penguins, shearwaters, and fur seals.

Highlights & What to See

• Little penguin colony – Montague Island is home to one of the largest little penguin populations in NSW. Join a twilight tour to watch them waddle ashore after a day at sea.
• Australian and New Zealand fur seals – The island's rocky shores are a permanent haul-out for hundreds of seals. Snorkel or dive with them in the clear waters (permitted with a licensed operator).
• Seabird breeding season – From September to March, thousands of shearwaters and crested terns nest on the island. The sight and sound of the colony is unforgettable.
• Heritage lighthouse – The 1881 lighthouse, still operational, offers panoramic views from its base. Tours include the keeper's quarters and a museum of island life.
• Diving and snorkelling – The marine park surrounding the island boasts sponge gardens, kelp forests, and grey nurse sharks. Visibility often exceeds 20 metres.

Suggested Time to Spend

A full-day tour from Narooma is the standard way to visit, with departures typically lasting 6–8 hours. This allows for a guided walk on the island, time to observe wildlife, and a snorkelling or diving session. If you're staying on the coast, an overnight trip (limited to a few groups per season) offers a chance to experience the island's nocturnal penguin parade and sunrise over the sea. Plan at least half a day for the experience, including boat travel.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Narooma – The gateway town for Montague Island tours, with a lovely boardwalk, oyster farms, and the iconic Australia Rock.
• Mystery Bay – A quiet, picturesque beach ideal for a post-island picnic or a swim, just south of Narooma.
• Bermagui – A charming fishing village with a vibrant arts scene, excellent seafood, and access to the stunning Camel Rock.
• Gulaga National Park – Home to the sacred Mount Gulaga (Mount Dromedary), offering Aboriginal cultural tours and lush rainforest walks.
• Eurobodalla National Park – Stretching along the coast, this park features pristine beaches, coastal lagoons, and abundant birdlife.

Please check official sources for current details.