Solitary Islands Coastal Walk

The Solitary Islands Coastal Walk is a world-class coastal hike that traces the dramatic shoreline north of Coffs Harbour, offering a raw, immersive encounter with Australia's subtropical east coast. This multi-day walk (or series of day walks) winds through lush rainforest, past empty beaches, and atop craggy headlands with ocean views that stretch to the horizon. It's a journey through both wild nature and local history, with plenty of opportunities to spot dolphins, whales (May–November), and sea eagles.

Highlights & What to See

• Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve – A short side trip from Coffs Harbour, this island is home to thousands of wedge-tailed shearwaters; walk the breakwall at sunset for the evening fly-in.
• Korora Bay & Diggers Beach – Beautiful, often uncrowded beaches perfect for a midday swim or picnic; watch for migrating humpbacks in winter.
• Red Rock & Corindi Beach – The northern end of the walk features a stunning headland lookout and the historic Red Rock campground.
• Bundagen Headland – A less-visited spot with panoramic views and abundant birdlife; keep an eye out for sea eagles and ospreys.
• Coffs Harbour Botanic Gardens – A lush rainforest garden that forms part of the walk; it's a great spot for a peaceful break with native plants and water birds.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers tackle the full 60 km over 3–4 days, staying at campgrounds or eco-lodges along the way. If you're short on time, the best day-walk section is from Coffs Harbour to Emerald Beach (about 4–5 hours one way), which packs in the most dramatic coastal scenery. Plan for a leisurely pace – the track is well-graded but can be muddy after rain. Allow an extra half-day for detours to Muttonbird Island and the Botanic Gardens.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour – The gateway town with a lively café scene, the Big Banana, and the charming Jetty Strip.
• Bellingen – A beautiful hinterland village known for its artisan spirit, weekly markets, and the crystal-clear Bellinger River for swimming.
• Dorrigo National Park – Part of the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area, with spectacular waterfalls and skywalk just 45 minutes inland.
• Urunga Boardwalk – A serene 1 km boardwalk over wetlands and mangroves where the Bellinger and Kalang rivers meet the sea.
• Nambucca Heads – A laid-back coastal town with a famous V-Wall decorated with painted rocks, and great surf breaks.

Please check official sources for current details.