Solitary Islands Coastal Walk

The Solitary Islands Coastal Walk is a spectacular 60-kilometer track that hugs the pristine coastline between Coffs Harbour and Sawtell in northern New South Wales. This multi-day adventure offers a sensory feast of rainforest-fringed beaches, dramatic headlands, and world-class surf breaks, all with the stunning backdrop of the Solitary Islands Marine Park. It's a walk that rewards every step with ever-changing coastal views, abundant birdlife, and the chance to spot migrating whales from June to November.

Highlights & What to See

• Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve: A short detour from Coffs Harbour, this island is a haven for wedge-tailed shearwaters and offers panoramic views back to the mainland.
• Korora Beach to Diggers Beach: A stunning stretch where the walk meanders through coastal heath and past hidden coves, perfect for a refreshing dip.
• The Headland at Coffs Harbour: Offers dramatic cliff-top views and is a prime spot for whale watching during migration season.
• Sawtell Beach: The walk's end point, a laid-back coastal village with excellent cafes and a patrolled beach for a celebratory swim.
• Bongil Bongil National Park: A lush section where the trail winds through coastal rainforest and alongside the Bongil Bongil Creek, teeming with birdlife.
• Solitary Islands Marine Park: The offshore islands are a protected sanctuary for seabirds and marine life, visible from many vantage points along the walk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers allow 3 to 4 days to complete the full 60-kilometer track, breaking it into manageable day sections of 12 to 20 kilometers. This pace leaves time for beach stops, photography, and exploring the coastal villages along the way. If you're short on time, the best day walk is the 8-kilometer section from Coffs Harbour to Sawtell, which captures the essence of the coastal scenery. The walk is well-signed and can be done in either direction, with plenty of accommodation options in Coffs Harbour and Sawtell for overnight stays.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour: The bustling hub of the region, with a vibrant marina, the popular Big Banana theme park, and excellent dining options.
• Sawtell: A charming beachside village with a relaxed vibe, great cafes, and a beautiful patrolled beach.
• Dorrigo National Park: Part of the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area, offering stunning waterfalls and lush rainforest walks just a 45-minute drive inland.
• Bellingen: A creative arts town nestled in the Bellinger Valley, known for its vibrant markets, artisan galleries, and the enchanting Never Never Creek.
• Urunga: A picturesque coastal town at the mouth of the Bellinger River, featuring a long boardwalk over the wetlands and excellent fishing spots.
• Woolgoolga: A laid-back surf town with a beautiful beach and a strong Sikh community, home to the impressive Sikh Temple.

Please check official sources for current details.