Onslow
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land Onslow is situated in, the Thalanyji people.
Located on the stunning coastline in Northwestern Australia, Onslow is renowned for its beaches, fishing and being a stones throw away from the breathtaking Mackerel Islands.
Historically, the Onslow Port was built at the mouth of the Ashburton River to export sheep wool and pearl shell from the Pilbara. Where Onslow is situated today is not where the town originally was. After being founded in 1885, just 40 years later the people moved 18 kilometres up the coast where a brand-new jetty was built to help avoid the issues the old port had with the mouth of the Ashburton River.
The history does not stop there with Onslow, the remains of the ‘old Onslow’ town are still visible including the stone remains of the gaol, the courthouse, the police station and parts of the recently refurbished cemetery as well. Visiting Onslow has endless opportunities for tourists, giving them the chance to explore both the new and the old.
As you drive into town watch out for the eye-catching salt evaporation ponds which cover 87 square kilometres across Onslow.
Fishing
As a recreational fishing and mud crabbing town, Onslow is a renowned hot spot for fishing fanatics and weekend warriors alike. Sunrise and Sunset Beach are great places to start as two of the most popular fishing destinations. Sunrise Beach has a boat ramp and is a great place to swim and snorkel. Sunset Beach offers a shaded picnic area and fish cleaning facilities.
Other options include fishing from the wharf at Beadon Creek, Four Mile Creek, Ashburton River, Three Mile and Five Mile pools that all have beautiful fishing spots along with bush camping facilities on the banks allowing you to spend time fishing, camping, bushwalking and swimming!
Attractions
Heritage Trail. A leisurely stroll that provides insight into the town's history. Heritage trail maps for a self-guided walk around the old townsite are available from the Onslow Visitor Centre.
Ian Blair Memorial Walkway. A popular boardwalk, winding through natural vegetation and ending at Sunset Beach.
Staircase to the Moon. Onslow is one of the best places in WA to view this beautiful, optical phenomenon when the full moon rises across exposed tidal flats, creating the impression of a staircase leading to the moon.
Skate Space. The Onslow Skate Space is designed to cater to all ages and skill levels, with both beginner and intermediate level features placed around the park. A perfect stop for families, the skate park includes an outdoor ping pong table, art features, hopscotch and foursquare courts.
Spray Park. Needing to cool off? Check out the Onslow Spray Park. The water playground offers two different play zones for ages 0-4 and 5 and up.
Community Garden. Evolving from humble beginnings as a school garden, the Onslow Community Garden today thrives as a place for residents and visitors to share the pleasure of outdoor activity, wholesome food, arts and craft and community spirit.
Neil and Judy Baker Shell Museum. Accumulated for over 60 years, most of the shells have been collected from the waters and islands surrounding Onslow. Those wishing to visit the museum can visit through the Hidden Secrets Tour run by the Onslow Visitor Centre.
The Islands
Mackerel Islands. Comprises ten islands situated 22kms offshore from Onslow, with two of the islands welcoming guests (Thevenard & Direction Island). The islands offer a fishing and snorkelling paradise and a largely untouched maritime experience. An ideal family holiday setting.
Montebello Islands Montebello Islands are situated approximately 75 nautical miles north of Onslow, off the West Australian coast. Trips are seasonal and not available year-round. With over 100 small islands in the group, they are surrounded by magnificent coral reefs, ideal for fishing, snorkelling and swimming.
Onslow Visitor Centre
Located on Second Avenue in Onslow, the Onslow Visitor Centre and is closed from 15 December to 31 March.
How to get to Onslow
Driving
Access to Onslow is via the North West Coastal Highway, with visitors usually coming from Karratha (307kms) or Exmouth (400kms).
Flying - Perth to Onslow
Virgin Australia fly several times a week direct from Perth to Onlsow.
Alliance Airlines currently have one weekly direct flight to Onslow.
Onslow enjoys good weather all year round and is one of the few places in Australia where the sun rises and sets over the water.
