Solitary Islands Marine Park wilderness guide
Marine Park · NSW

Solitary Islands Marine Park

Solitary Islands Marine Park is a protected area in New South Wales, Australia, offering diverse marine life and fantastic opportunities for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

Marine Park175,4442+ Trails

Designation

Marine Park

Total Wilderness Area

175,444

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Solitary Islands Marine Park

Solitary Islands Marine Park is a protected area in New South Wales, Australia, offering diverse marine life and fantastic opportunities for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Solitary Islands Marine Park, covering approximately 71,000 hectares, is one of the largest marine protected areas in New South Wales, located between Coffs Harbour and the Sandon River. The park features a unique blend of warm tropical currents and cool temperate waters, supporting a distinctive array of marine biodiversity. Established in 1998, it covers a network of islands and their surrounding waters, providing specific habitats to numerous fish species, invertebrates, and notable coral reefs. The marine park is also a sanctuary for migratory whales, making it a prime spot for whale watching. Visitors can enjoy various recreational activities such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing, while also appreciating the park's natural beauty and its ecological significance. Landmark attractions like Muttonbird Island and the coastal walking trails enhance the visitor experience, offering panoramic views and opportunities to learn about the local wildlife and indigenous cultural heritage.

Field Guide · Marine Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Solitary Islands Marine Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

Muttonbird Island offers a panoramic view at sunrise and is a key nesting site for wedge-tailed shearwaters.Unique opportunity to dive among diverse coral species, supporting a mix of tropical and temperate marine life.Whale watching during migration season allows sighting of humpback whales.Local fishing spots provide both recreational opportunities and a chance to catch various fish species.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Solitary Islands Marine Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Snorkeling

Available in Solitary Islands Marine Park
Park Recreation

Diving

Available in Solitary Islands Marine Park
Park Recreation

Whale Watching

Available in Solitary Islands Marine Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Solitary Islands Marine Park
Park Recreation

Kayaking

Available in Solitary Islands Marine Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Solitary Islands Marine Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Solitary Islands Marine Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees required for general access, but certain permits apply for fishing activities.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Solitary Islands Marine Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Wooli, New South Wales
4.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wooli, New South Wales

Wooli is a peaceful coastal town in New South Wales perfect for kayaking, hiking, fishing, and camping near pristine beaches and the Wooli River estuary. A quiet getaway for outdoor lovers seeking nature and tranquil waterways.

Spring to Autumn
Explore Town
Woolgoolga, New South Wales
21.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Woolgoolga, New South Wales

Woolgoolga, NSW, offers a spectacular blend of surfing, snorkeling, and rainforest hiking beside pristine beaches. From whale watching in winter to tranquil kayaking through estuaries, it’s a coastal adventure hub worth discovering.

September to November (spring) and June to August (winter whale migration)
Explore Town
Grafton, New South Wales
22.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Grafton, New South Wales

Grafton offers outdoor lovers a relaxed riverside setting with access to hiking, paddling, fishing, and mountain biking. Enjoy scenic river trails, vibrant birdlife, and springtime jacaranda blooms in this charming Northern Rivers town.

Autumn and Spring
Explore Town
James Creek, New South Wales
24.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

James Creek, New South Wales

James Creek in New South Wales is a tranquil spot for kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, and bushwalking. Its calm waters and natural surroundings offer a peaceful retreat for outdoors lovers seeking quiet Aussie river adventures.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Yamba, New South Wales
25.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Yamba, New South Wales

Yamba, NSW is a coastal playground for surfers, anglers, and paddlers alike. With stunning beaches, river estuaries, and native wildlife, it’s the perfect spot for an active outdoor escape all year round.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Coffs Harbour, New South Wales
35.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Coffs Harbour, New South Wales

Coffs Harbour is a dynamic coastal destination with exciting outdoor pursuits. Surf the waves, hike into rainforests, or snorkel vibrant reefs. Perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Solitary Islands Marine Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Under the Full Moon: A 2.5‑Hour Kayak on the Clarence River
ADVEXPEDITION
Yamba, New South Wales
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Under the Full Moon: A 2.5‑Hour Kayak on the Clarence River

A 2.5-hour, once‑a‑month moonlit paddle from Yamba that pairs sunset and night paddling with a riverside dinner—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

Water ActivitiesPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip