Mackerel Islands

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land the Mackerel Islands is situated in, the Nhuwala people.

The remarkable Mackerel Islands includes a cluster of 10 islands, with two of these open to tourists -Thevenard Island and Direction Island. Experience the beauty of world-class fishing, diving, swimming, snorkeling, boating and nature watching all on the Mackerel Islands.

How to get there? Just jump on a ferry departing from Onslow twice per week on Tuesdays and Fridays or take your own boat across. Parking is available on the mainland, and you can also book charter flights from towns such as Exmouth or Karratha to land on the airstrip at Mackerel Islands.

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Activities

Tour the island by 4WD, boat tour or fishing charter. Boats, kayaks, stand up paddle boards (SUPs) and fishing equipment are all available for hire, so there won’t be a dull moment!

There’s plenty of spectacular snorkelling right off the beach as well as diving for those more advanced.

The islands are home to incredible marine life including whales, dolphins, turtles, tropical fish and land and migratory birds.

islands

Accommodation

Thevenard Island. A short 45-minute boat ride from Onslow, the Mackerel Islands Resort on Thevenard Island offers a perfect base to explore the amazing natural wonders of these teeming waters. There are a range of 2 or 3 bedroom cabins available.

Direction Island. For the ultimate wilderness experience, book the one-and-lonely beach shack on Direction Island. Fringed by a coral reef, the entire island will be yours to explore with up to eight of your family and friends. Apart from the solar powered beach shack – with a supply of fresh water – the island is totally untouched and undisturbed.

For more information, visit https://mackerelislands.com.au/accommodation/

Tours

Explore the island, ocean and reefs on a self-guided or organised tour. Tours include:

  • Turtle hatching
  • Sunset 4WD tours
  • Whale watching
  • Bird watching
  • Kids fishing clinic
  • Guided reef walk
  • Island reef tour
  • Beach fishing
  • Scuba diving tours

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How to get to the Mackerel Islands

Most visitors travel to Onslow by road or by air, and then take their own boat or a ferry across. Thevenard Island also has airstrip access for private light planes or charter flights.

Secure parking is available in Onslow for cars and boat trailers.