Off the coast of Geraldton lies one of Western Australia’s best-kept secrets—the Abrolhos Islands. This stunning archipelago, made up of 122 islands, is a marine paradise filled with vibrant coral reefs, an abundance of wildlife, and a rich history dating back to early European explorers. Whether you’re a keen diver, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Abrolhos Islands offer a truly unforgettable experience. Here’s your guide to exploring Geraldton’s hidden treasure, the Abrolhos Islands.

A Glimpse into the Abrolhos Islands

Located about 60 kilometers off the coast of Geraldton, the Houtman Abrolhos Islands consist of three main island groups: the Wallabi Group, the Easter Group, and the Pelsaert Group. The islands are best known for their spectacular marine life, colorful coral reefs, and historical significance as the site of the infamous Batavia shipwreck.

The Abrolhos Islands are an important part of Western Australia’s maritime history, but they’re also a haven for those who love the ocean. From snorkeling and diving in pristine waters to bird watching and exploring untouched landscapes, the Abrolhos Islands offer a unique combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue.

Image © Australia’s Coral Coast

Getting There

Reaching the Abrolhos Islands is an adventure in itself. The islands are only accessible by boat or plane, with regular charters and tours departing from Geraldton. Many visitors choose to explore the islands on day trips, but overnight trips and liveaboard tours are also available for those who want to spend more time enjoying the islands.

For those seeking a truly unforgettable experience, scenic flights over the islands offer breathtaking aerial views of the coral reefs, turquoise waters, and rugged coastlines. The bird’s-eye view from above allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of this remote archipelago.

What we love: The variety of travel options, from boat tours to scenic flights, offering different ways to explore the islands.

Good to know: Tours can be booked from Geraldton, and it’s best to plan your visit between March and November, when the weather is more favorable.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Discover the Batavia Shipwreck

One of the Abrolhos Islands’ most fascinating historical sites is the wreck of the Batavia, a Dutch East India Company ship that ran aground on the islands in 1629. The Batavia’s wreck led to one of the most dramatic tales of mutiny and survival in Australian maritime history, and today, visitors can explore the site where the ship’s remains were discovered.

The shipwreck is located near Beacon Island in the Wallabi Group of islands. Although the wreck itself is submerged, you can learn about the harrowing story of the Batavia’s crew, passengers, and the subsequent mutiny at the Western Australian Museum in Geraldton, where many artifacts recovered from the wreck are on display. For history buffs, visiting the Abrolhos Islands offers a chance to connect with a fascinating chapter of early European exploration.

What we love: The rich history of the Batavia and the opportunity to visit one of Australia’s most famous shipwreck sites.

Good to know: Guided tours to the Batavia wreck site can be arranged as part of Abrolhos Island tours.

Snorkeling and Diving in Coral Reefs

The waters surrounding the Abrolhos Islands are teeming with marine life, making the archipelago a dream destination for snorkelers and divers. The coral reefs are some of the most diverse in the world, home to an array of tropical fish, colorful coral species, and larger marine animals like sea lions, dolphins, and occasionally humpback whales.

Snorkeling is popular in the shallow lagoons of the Easter Group, where the clear, turquoise waters make it easy to spot the vibrant marine life below. For divers, the Abrolhos offers more challenging sites, including deep dives around the Batavia wreck and other historic shipwrecks scattered throughout the islands.

What we love: The opportunity to explore some of Western Australia’s most pristine coral reefs, filled with marine life.

Good to know: Snorkeling and diving equipment is often provided on tours, but check with your operator to ensure everything you need is available.

Image © Australia’s Coral Coast

Wildlife Encounters on Land and Sea

The Abrolhos Islands are a sanctuary for wildlife, both on land and in the water. The islands are home to a wide range of bird species, including Australian sea eagles, terns, and the endemic Abrolhos painted button-quail. Bird watchers will delight in the chance to spot migratory seabirds and nesting colonies, particularly on Pelsaert Island, known for its vast bird population.

Marine life is equally abundant, with dolphins frequently seen playing in the waters around the islands, and sea lions basking on the beaches. The islands are also an important breeding ground for green sea turtles, and during the breeding season, you might be lucky enough to witness hatchlings making their way to the ocean.

What we love: The diverse wildlife, both in the air and on land, offers endless opportunities for nature lovers.

Good to know: Some of the islands are protected wildlife reserves, so be sure to follow local guidelines to preserve the environment.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Fishing in the Abrolhos Islands

The Abrolhos Islands are a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering some of the best fishing grounds in Western Australia. The nutrient-rich waters around the islands attract a wide variety of fish species, including coral trout, baldchin groper, and pink snapper. Fishing charters from Geraldton offer trips to the islands, giving anglers the chance to cast a line in this remote paradise.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just trying your hand at fishing for the first time, the Abrolhos Islands provide an unforgettable fishing experience in a spectacular setting.

What we love: The abundant fish species and the opportunity for both recreational and sport fishing.

Good to know: Fishing regulations apply to the Abrolhos Islands, so make sure you’re aware of the local guidelines before you go.

Exploring the Islands on Foot

While much of the focus on the Abrolhos Islands is on its marine life, the islands themselves offer unique landscapes to explore on foot. The islands are relatively small, but walking trails allow you to discover their rugged beauty, from limestone cliffs and sandy beaches to salt lakes and mangroves.

Island walks are a great way to experience the raw, untouched landscapes, and the absence of large developments means that the islands retain their wild, natural charm. The best way to explore the islands on foot is by joining a guided tour, where local experts can share stories about the islands’ history, geology, and wildlife.

What we love: The sense of solitude and the natural beauty of the islands, offering a true wilderness experience.

Good to know: The islands are uninhabited, so be sure to bring everything you need for your visit, especially water and sun protection.

Image © Australia’s Coral Coast

Final Thoughts

The Abrolhos Islands offer an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, marine adventure, and fascinating history. Whether you're snorkeling over colorful reefs, fishing in pristine waters, or learning about the infamous Batavia shipwreck, the Abrolhos Islands provide an unforgettable escape into one of Western Australia’s hidden treasures.

So, whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer island getaway, be sure to add the Abrolhos Islands to your travel itinerary and discover the magic of this untouched paradise.