Moira Island

Moira Island is a secluded speck of sand and scrub in the lower Myall River system, part of the Port Stephens – Great Lakes Marine Park. Accessible only by boat, this uninhabited island offers a raw, peaceful escape where the only sounds are lapping water and bird calls. It’s a favourite for kayakers, stand-up paddleboarders and those seeking a private picnic spot with pristine views across the river channels.

Highlights & What to See

• Island solitude – Moira Island has no facilities, no shops, no crowds. Bring your own supplies and enjoy a true castaway experience.
• Kayaking & paddleboarding – The calm, shallow waters around the island are perfect for exploring by paddle craft. Launch from Pindimar or Tea Gardens.
• Birdwatching – Look for ospreys, white-bellied sea eagles and migratory waders that frequent the island’s sandy edges and mangroves.
• Swimming & beachcombing – The sheltered beaches are ideal for a refreshing dip and collecting shells along the high-tide line.
• Fishing – Cast a line from the shore or a kayak for flathead, bream and whiting in the surrounding river channels.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is plenty to paddle out, explore the island’s perimeter on foot (it’s small – a 20-minute walk will circumnavigate it), enjoy a picnic and swim. If you’re combining with a longer kayak trip on the Myall River system, you could easily spend a full day on the water, with Moira Island as your lunch stop. Aim to visit during a rising or high tide for easiest beach access.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Tea Gardens – A quaint waterfront village with cafes, a bakery and the historic Tea Gardens Hotel; a great launch point.
• Hawks Nest – Just across the bridge, with excellent surf beaches and the entrance to the Myall Lakes National Park.
• Myall Lakes National Park – Explore the vast lake system by kayak or boat, with camping options on other islands and along the shore.
• Port Stephens – The broader region offers dolphin cruises, sand dunes at Stockton Beach, and wineries in the hinterland.
• Pindimar – A quiet hamlet on the northern side of the river; another good launch spot with less traffic.

Please check official sources for current details.