Moturiki Island, known to generations of locals as Leisure Island, is a small rocky island joined to the southern end of Mount Main Beach by a short causeway, so you can stroll straight out onto it. Its nickname is a hangover from the 1960s and 70s, when the island was home to a seaside amusement park complete with a saltwater pool and rides; the fun park is long gone, but the name and the sense of occasion have stuck.
Today it is a wild little headland loved for watching the surf, the sunrise and the sea doing its thing. When a big swell is running, the island's blowhole erupts in spectacular fashion through a gap in the rocks, and at low tide the rock pools around the point come alive with marine life.
It is about a 15-minute drive from Coastal Cottage to the Mount end of Main Beach, then a short walk across the causeway. Come at dawn and you will understand why it is rated one of the best sunrise spots on the coast.
Highlights
The blowhole
On a big swell the blowhole sends seawater bursting up through the rocks.
Rock pools
Explore the pools and marine life around the point at low tide.
Sunrise and surf views
A prime vantage point for dawn light and watching the surfers below.
Tips for your visit
- The blowhole performs best on a big swell around high tide.
- Mind your footing, the rocks can be slippery and waves unpredictable.
- Combine it with a walk along Mount Main Beach.
Getting there from the cottage
About 15 minutes by car to Mount Main Beach, then a short walk across.
Best time to visit
Big-swell days for the blowhole and sunrise for the light.