5 reasons the Mackerel Islands need to be on your 2025 bucket list

Just a 45-minute ferry from Onslow or a short flight from Exmouth, the Mackerel Islands are a secluded paradise on WA’s mid-west coast.

With pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and an abundance of marine life, this hidden gem is perfect for your next holiday escape. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your 2025 bucket list:

1. Awe-inspiring wildlife encounters

The Mackerel Islands offer nature experiences straight out of a National Geographic documentary. From swimming with sea turtles on the famous Turtle Highway, to spotting dugongs gliding through crystal-clear shallows, and witnessing the awe-inspiring humpback whale migration, it’s a truly awe-inspiring part of the world.

Between October and March, the islands come alive with turtle nesting season – a magical time to see turtles mating, nesting, and hatching under the stars. For bird enthusiasts, the islands host 31 migratory bird species, including the striking white-bellied sea eagle. These unique experiences make every visit unforgettable.

2. Your own slice of paradise

Forget crowded beaches and overrun tourist hotspots – here, it’s all about serenity. With just 12 beachfront cabins, the Mackerel Islands offer an intimate escape where the only sounds are waves lapping the shore and the occasional whale breach. Stroll along empty beaches, snorkel in vibrant reefs, and relax under WA’s breathtaking starry skies. The minimal light pollution means unparalleled stargazing, with the Milky Way putting on a dazzling display most nights.

3. Adventure right on your doorstep

Once you arrive, the only travel you’ll need to worry about is how far to walk to the beach! Explore the fringing reef, extending on from the Ningaloo system, which is literally just steps from your cabin. Complimentary stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkel gear make adventure effortless.

For those keen on exploration, guided snorkel tours, 4WD sunset drives, and low-tide reef walks offer something for every adventurer. Whether you’re fishing for your dinner, spotting marine life from a kayak, or catching the sunset from a hammock on your private veranda, the Mackerel Islands are adventure done your way.

4. Activities for all ages

From kids’ fishing clinics to communal “Dinner Under the Stars” nights, there’s something for everyone. Couples can enjoy private snorkelling spots, families can explore tide pools teeming with life, and friends can relax with a game of beach cricket. For those craving more luxury, indulge in optional extras like the Half-Day Island Reef Eco Snorkel Tour or a whale-watching adventure in the winter months. The islands are the ultimate playground for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

5. Easier than ever to visit

Getting to the Mackerel Islands has never been simpler. A brand-new 35-minute flight from Exmouth makes this paradise more accessible than ever. To make things even easier, opt for the Reef to Retreat Flight Package – a seamless experience that includes flights, beachfront accommodation, meals, and activities. From the moment you touch down, you’ll be immersed in the beauty of this untouched oasis. Whether it’s sipping your morning coffee while whales splash offshore or snorkelling in turquoise waters, the Mackerel Islands make every moment extraordinary.

Start planning your 2025 adventure now – head to mackerelislands.com.au for more info, and get ready to experience the magic of this secluded paradise.

–

This article is sponsored by Mackerel Islands and endorsed by us. Please see our Editorial Policy for more info.