Susan Island

Susan Island is a serene, uninhabited nature sanctuary in the lower Myall River, just a short boat ride from Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest. This idyllic spot offers a peaceful escape into pristine bushland and wetlands, where you can spot kangaroos, wallabies, and abundant birdlife in their natural habitat. The island is a haven for kayakers and small-boat explorers, with calm waterways perfect for paddling through mangroves and spotting dolphins frolicking in the river.

Highlights & What to See

• Wildlife Encounters – Susan Island is famous for its resident eastern grey kangaroos and wallabies, which often graze near the shoreline at dawn and dusk.
• Kayaking & Canoeing – Glide through the mangrove-lined channels and shallow creeks that fringe the island, offering close-up views of waterbirds like herons, egrets, and ospreys.
• Bushwalking Trails – Explore short walking tracks that weave through coastal heath and paperbark forest, leading to quiet picnic spots with river views.
• Dolphin Spotting – The Myall River is home to a resident pod of bottlenose dolphins, often seen playing near the island’s shores.
• Birdwatching – Over 100 bird species have been recorded here, including the rare white-bellied sea eagle and migratory waders.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is ideal to fully experience Susan Island. Arrive early morning for the best wildlife sightings and a calm paddle. If you’re combining with a visit to Tea Gardens or Hawks Nest, you can easily fit in a morning kayak trip followed by lunch at a waterfront café. For a more relaxed pace, bring a picnic and spend a few hours exploring the trails and watching the river flow.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Tea Gardens – A charming riverside village with boutique shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants; it’s the main departure point for trips to Susan Island.
• Hawks Nest – A coastal town with stunning beaches, including Bennetts Beach and the dramatic sand dunes of Worimi Conservation Lands.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A vast system of freshwater lakes, forests, and wetlands offering kayaking, fishing, and bushwalking.
• Port Stephens – Head to Nelson Bay for whale watching, dolphin cruises, and the sandboarding at Stockton Bight.
• Broughton Island – A remote, pristine island with secluded beaches and excellent snorkelling, accessible by charter boat.

Please check official sources for current details.