For West Aussies planning to hitch up the boat, load up the car and chase the sun north this winter, the Mackerel Islands might just be the dream destination. It’s a beautiful and untouched slice of Western Australia that’s easier to access than you might think.
Accessibility Meets Remoteness
“The biggest drawcard of the Mackerel Islands is the rare balance of accessibility and true remoteness,” said Olivia Shallcross, Sales and Marketing Coordinator at Mackerel Islands. “It’s one of the few places where you can wake up in a beachfront cabin and, within minutes, be casting a line or snorkelling straight off the fringing reef.”
You’re far enough away to feel completely off grid but not so far that getting there becomes a logistical headache. From Perth, it’s a 1400km sealed-road drive to Onslow. From there, the crossing to Thevenard Island takes around 45 minutes by boat transfer. For those skipping the road trip, flights via Exmouth followed by a scenic light plane over Ningaloo Reef will have you island-side in roughly 35 minutes.
A Natural Pause Point
Positioned neatly between Exmouth and the broader Pilbara, the Mackerel Islands offer a natural pause point. “Once you arrive in Onslow, vehicles and trailers can be safely parked on the mainland, giving peace of mind while the adventure continues offshore,” Ms Shallcross explained. “From there, everything is set up to make the transition onto the islands as smooth as possible, so families can spend less time organising and more time enjoying the experience together.”
Fishing, Snorkelling and That ‘Endless Summer’ Feeling
Life on the Mackerel Islands revolves around the water, with fishing a major drawcard. “It’s home to some of the best fishing in the North-West, with proximity to Exmouth giving guests access to world-class fishing grounds without the crowds,” Ms Shallcross said. But you don’t need a boat to make the most of it. The islands are fringed by reef, meaning snorkelling is as easy as stepping off the beach.
“The house reefs are incredible and easily accessible — no boat required,” she added. “At low tide, conditions are often perfect for a calm, clear snorkel, with lots of marine life and bommies to discover.” There’s also kayaking, wildlife spotting and a 12km eco trail circling the island, with regular sightings of turtles, rays and seabirds. “If you visit during July or August, you’ll also have the chance to spot humpback whales breaching out at sea, which is an unforgettable experience.”
Where to Stay
Accommodation on the islands leans into the laid-back lifestyle: think self-contained beachfront cabins ranging from two to five bedrooms. Each comes equipped with full kitchens, private bathrooms and shaded outdoor dining areas with BBQs, ideal for long, relaxed evenings after a day exploring. “It’s hard to go past the sunsets,” Ms Shallcross said. “Watching the sun sink into the Indian Ocean with a drink in hand after a full day outdoors is something special.” Then there’s the ultimate reward for a day on the water: “The simple pleasure of catching your own fish, filleting it, and enjoying it fresh that same evening — it doesn’t get better than that.”
What to Know Before You Go
Stays are self-catered, so guests are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks. Many travellers pre-order supplies from Onslow before making the crossing, while others opt for pre-prepared meal options from the Onslow Beach Resort, ready for easy cooking once they arrive. And of course, there’s that feast of fresh fish you reeled in during your stay!
Mackerel Islands offer a rare blend of accessibility and remote island living, with beachfront cabins, world-class fishing, vibrant reef snorkelling and unforgettable family experiences just off the Pilbara coast. Visit the website for more information.
