Abrolhos Islands

The pristine Houtman Abrolhos Islands with crystal blue waters and their surrounding reef communities are a meeting place for tropical and temperate sea life, forming one of the State’s unique marine areas.

The Islands comprise three major groups, the Wallabi, Easter and Pelsaert groups stretching from north to south across 100 kilometres of ocean.

The sea life here is world-class, with sensational live coral reefs, first-class diving grounds, an abundance of fish life, friendly sea lions, pods of dolphins and migratory humpback whales.

Prolific fish life also attracts recreational fishers who reel in delicacies like baldchin groper, dhufish and coral trout, as well as shark species, coral, seagrasses and more. The Islands are also popular for cray fishing and pearls.

Nature lovers also find the islands interesting as they support one of Australia’s most important areas for seabirds. There are over two million birds from 35 species breed on the islands and over 140 species of native flora, classified as protected.

But the Abrolhos is perhaps most famed for its role in the Batavia tragedy. In 1629, the Dutch East Indies sailing ship, the Batavia, ran aground on one of the Abrolhos’s treacherous reefs. Most of her passengers scrambled ashore the virtually waterless rocky isles and survived the wreckage. A small group of mutineers, however, embarked on a bloody slaughter that saw 125 men, women and children slain on the desolate isles. You can visit the Museum of Geraldton to hear the fascinating yet brutal Batavia Story.

Take a scenic flight and land on one of the islands, or set out on a dive, fishing or eco boat charter. It’s a spectacular place to go diving, fishing or snorkelling. You won’t want to forget your camera for this one and if you have a GoPro, definitely bring it along.

The Abrolhos Islands can be accessed by flight or charter boat. Enjoy a two hour, half day or full day flight, or if you have more time consider a charter tour to immerse yourself in this true wonder.

Please contact the Geraldton Visitor Centre for flights and more information.