Muttonbird Island

Rising dramatically from the turquoise waters of Port Stephens, Muttonbird Island is a wild, windswept sanctuary that offers one of the most immersive wildlife experiences on the NSW coast. Accessible only by boat or kayak, this rugged outcrop is a crucial breeding ground for the wedge-tailed shearwater (muttonbird) and a haven for seabirds. The island’s exposed cliffs and scrubby vegetation feel raw and remote, yet its proximity to the holiday hub of Nelson Bay makes it an easy day-trip adventure for those seeking nature at its most authentic.

Highlights & What to See

• Wedge-tailed shearwater colony – From September to April, up to 500,000 muttonbirds nest in burrows across the island. Visit at dusk to witness the spectacular ‘rafting’ flocks returning from the sea.
• Snorkelling and diving – The island’s fringing reefs teem with fish, rays, and occasional sea turtles. Clear waters and sheltered coves make this a prime spot for underwater exploration.
• Kayaking circumnavigation – Paddle around the island’s rocky shoreline, weaving through sea caves and keeping an eye out for dolphins and migrating humpback whales (May–November).
• Panoramic views – From the island’s highest point, soak up sweeping vistas across Port Stephens, the Tomaree Peninsula, and the distant Myall Lakes.
• Birdwatching – Beyond muttonbirds, spot ospreys, white-bellied sea eagles, and crested terns nesting on the cliffs.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least half a day to fully appreciate Muttonbird Island. A morning kayak trip (2–3 hours) followed by a snorkel session and a picnic on the beach makes for a perfect itinerary. If you’re keen to see the shearwater return, stay until sunset – the bird activity peaks around dusk. Combine the visit with a morning on the Tomaree Headland walk or an afternoon dolphin cruise from Nelson Bay for a full day on the water.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay – The bustling waterfront hub with cafes, dolphin-watching cruises, and the departure point for tours to the island.
• Tomaree Headland – A short but steep walk rewards with one of the coast’s best panoramic views over Port Stephens and beyond.
• Stockton Beach – Epic sand dunes and a historic shipwreck, perfect for 4WD adventures or sandboarding.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A vast system of lakes, forests, and wetlands ideal for kayaking, fishing, and bushwalking.
• Port Stephens–Great Lakes Marine Park – Explore the protected waters and seagrass beds that are home to dugongs and sea turtles.

Please check official sources for current details.