Solitary Islands Marine Park

Stretching along the Coffs Coast, the Solitary Islands Marine Park is a shimmering marine sanctuary where subtropical and temperate waters collide, creating a biodiversity hotspot. Named after the solitary rocky islands that rise from the sea, this protected area offers world-class snorkelling, diving, and wildlife encounters. Whether you're paddling above kaleidoscopic reefs or watching humpback whales breach on their annual migration, this is the New South Wales coast at its most wild and pristine.

Highlights & What to See

• South Solitary Island – A historic lighthouse island surrounded by clear water; snorkel with grey nurse sharks, turtles, and schools of colourful fish.
• Pimpernel Rock – A pinnacle dive site famous for grey nurse sharks, manta rays, and the chance to see leafy sea dragons.
• Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve – Walk the breakwater from Coffs Harbour to this seabird rookery; in summer watch wedge-tailed shearwaters return at dusk.
• Korora Bay – Gentle snorkelling for beginners; spot wobbegongs, moray eels, and blue groper in the rocky gutters.
• Whale watching – June to November, humpback whales pass close to the islands; book a tour from Coffs Harbour.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate a full day to explore the marine park properly. Half a day works for a single snorkel or walk, but to dive at Pimpernel Rock and visit Muttonbird Island, you'll want a full day. If you're a keen diver, consider two days to explore multiple sites. The marine park is best visited during calm conditions (spring and autumn) when visibility peaks.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour – The gateway town with a lively harbour, the Jetty Strip cafes, and the Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery.
• Dorrigo National Park – A World Heritage Gondwana rainforest with spectacular waterfalls and the Skywalk lookout; 45 minutes inland.
• Bellingen – A bohemian river town with artisan markets, swimming holes, and the Never Never River; 30 minutes west.
• Urunga – Coastal village with a beautiful boardwalk over the Kalang River and the Urunga Lagoon; 20 minutes south.
• Sawtell – A relaxed beach town with a great surf break, boutique shops, and the Sawtell RSL for a sunset drink; 10 minutes south of Coffs Harbour.

Please check official sources for current details.