Montague Island

Just off the coast from Narooma on the New South Wales Sapphire Coast, Montague Island is a wild, windswept sanctuary that feels a world away from the mainland. This 82-hectare nature reserve is a haven for seabirds and seals, with a fascinating human history woven into its granite cliffs and lighthouse. Accessible only by guided tour, it offers an intimate encounter with raw coastal nature — think the thunderous crash of waves, the pungent smell of guano, and the cacophony of thousands of birds. It’s a must for wildlife lovers and anyone seeking a truly off-grid experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Seal colony: The island hosts a huge colony of Australian and New Zealand fur seals. Watch them loll on the rocks, jostle in the surf, and — if you’re lucky — spy pups playing in tidal pools.
• Seabird city: Montague is a critical breeding site for little penguins, shearwaters, and crested terns. In summer, thousands of shearwaters return at dusk — a spectacular natural event.
• Historic lighthouse: Built in 1881, the elegant white lighthouse still operates. Tours include the keeper’s quarters, where you can imagine the solitary life of those who manned this remote outpost.
• Snorkelling and diving: The surrounding waters are a marine park, with kelp forests, sponge gardens, and grey nurse sharks. Visibility is often excellent — bring a wetsuit even in summer.
• Whale watching (June–November): Humpbacks pass close to the island on their migration. From the cliffs or a boat, you can see them breaching and tail-slapping.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors come on a half-day tour (about 4–5 hours) from Narooma, which includes a boat trip, a guided walk around the island, and time for wildlife watching. If you’re a keen diver or photographer, consider a full-day trip to linger. The island has no accommodation or facilities — it’s a true day trip. Plan to arrive in Narooma the night before if you want an early start.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Narooma — the charming fishing town is the departure point for tours. Stroll the boardwalk, sample oysters, and visit the iconic Australia Rock.
• Mystery Bay — a quiet, scenic beach just south of Narooma, perfect for a post-island picnic or a swim.
• Eurobodalla National Park — stretches of pristine coastline, lagoons, and bushwalking trails to the south.
• Bateman’s Bay — a larger town 40 minutes north, with more dining options and the Clyde River for kayaking.
• Gulaga National Park — inland from Narooma, this park protects the sacred Mount Gulaga (a dormant volcano) and offers Aboriginal cultural tours.

Please check official sources for current details.