Abrolhos Islands
Home | Geraldton, WA
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Overview
Highlights
Abrolhos Islands is a must-see bucket list destination for avid snorkellers, divers and bird watchers, located off the coast of Geraldton on the Coral Coast of Western Australia.
More than 120 unspoiled islands clustered over 100 kilometres of pristine ocean make up the Abrolhos Islands off Western Australia's mid north coast. Large breeding colonies of sea birds exist on the islands with more than 90 different species identified. Composed of three groups of 40 islands each, The Abrolhos boasts an incredible range of marine life. Spectacular coral gardens make for excellent diving and snorkelling while sea lions, dolphins and migratory whales are often spotted in the area.
The islands are among Australia’s most important sites for breeding seabirds such as noddies shearwaters and terns. Over two million birds from 35 species breed on the islands. Abrolhos Islands also mark the northern most habitats of the Australian Sea Lion. Once abundant, they are now classified as a ‘vulnerable species’. Other mammals that call these islands home include the Tammar wallaby and bush rat, as well as dolphins and migrating whales.
There is an abundance of sea life at the Abrolhos including fish species of baldchin groper, coral trout, and dhufish, as well as shark species, coral, seagrasses and more. There are over 140 species of native flora on the islands and all are classified as protected. These include heath, dwarf shrub land, saltbush and mallee.
The Abrolhos Islands are also rich in maritime history. The infamous Batavia wreck lies on the ocean floor on Morning Reef at the Wallabi group of islands. The Batavia was wrecked in 1629 on her maiden voyage from Holland - the horrendous tale of mutiny and murder is told in the WA Museum in Geraldton.
You can reach the Abrolhos Islands by boat charter or scenic flights from Geraldton. Flights range from fly overs, half and full day tours, while boat charters range from three to five days with accommodation onboard. There is no accommodation on the islands.
Activities
- Snorkelling and diving
- Swimming
- Water sports - kite surfing, kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddle baording
- Boating
- Fishing - Recreational fishing is permitted around the islands within allocated seasons. For fishing regulations and licenses please contact the Department of Fisheries.
Facilities
- There are no facilities located on the islands.
Important Information
Guidelines
- Always do some research before heading out for your journey. Visit the local visitor information centre for the most up to date information.
- Stay safe and get the most out of your visit by preparing for natural hazards and other outdoor risks. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care.
- Wear suitable footwear and ensure to wear appropriate clothing to protect yourself from the elements when outside exploring.
- Plan ahead and ensure to take enough food and water for your journey.
- Always stay on the marked tracks where possible. Never climb fences, they are there for your own safety.
- Please consider the environment, take your rubbish with you or place in the bins provided. We want to ensure these beautiful places are still here for our future generations to enjoy.
- Ensure to let a responsible adult know of your plans and report back into them once you have finished exploring for the day.
- National park fees may apply for national parks in Western Australia. Check the parks website for bookings and/ or further details.
- Entry fees may change at anytime at the discretion of WA Parks and Wildlife Services, check their website for the most up to date information.
Photo credits: Geraldton Visitor Information Centre
Content credits: Geraldton Visitor Information Centre & Aussie Bucket List®
Location & Supplier
Abrolhos Islands
Address: Abrolhos Island, Houtman Abrolhos WA 6530
Website: https://www.visitgeraldton.com.au/play/houtman-abrolhos-islands.aspx
10 people have added this to their Bucket List