Solitary Islands Marine Park

Stretching along the New South Wales coast between Coffs Harbour and Wooli, Solitary Islands Marine Park is a protected haven for marine life, offering some of the most pristine snorkelling, diving, and kayaking in the state. Named for the small, isolated islands that dot the park, this area is a biodiversity hotspot where tropical and temperate waters mix, creating a vibrant underwater world of colourful coral, sponges, and fish. It’s a must-visit for ocean lovers seeking uncrowded beaches and exceptional wildlife encounters.

Highlights & What to See

• Snorkel or dive the Pinnacles – a submerged reef system teeming with sea turtles, wobbegong sharks, and schools of tropical fish. Visibility often exceeds 20 metres.
• Kayak around the Solitary Islands – paddle out to North Solitary Island or South Solitary Island to explore sea caves and spot seabirds like shearwaters and ospreys.
• Visit the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve – walk the breakwall from Coffs Harbour to this island, home to thousands of wedge-tailed shearwaters (muttonbirds) that return each spring.
• Whale watching – from June to November, humpback whales migrate through the park; take a boat tour or watch from headlands like Look at Me Now Headland.
• Explore the coastal reserves – walk the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk, a 60-kilometre track linking beaches, rainforest, and lookout points.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself at least two full days to experience the park properly – one for a boat-based snorkelling or diving trip to the outer islands, and another for kayaking or a coastal walk. If you’re short on time, a half-day snorkel trip from Coffs Harbour still delivers memorable encounters. The park is best visited between October and April when the water is warmest and conditions are calm.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coffs Harbour – the main gateway, with the iconic Big Banana, a lively marina, and excellent cafés.
• Wooli – a sleepy coastal village at the northern end of the park, perfect for fishing and beachcombing.
• Yuraygir National Park – adjacent to the marine park, offering coastal walks, kangaroos, and empty beaches.
• Bellingen – a hinterland town with a bohemian vibe, waterfall walks, and artisan food scene, a 30-minute drive inland.
• Dorrigo National Park – a World Heritage-listed rainforest with spectacular waterfalls and ancient trees, about an hour west.

Please check official sources for current details.