August 3, 2026
Monthly Hotel Feature: Mackerel Islands
An Island Escape Off the Pilbara Coast
The Mackerel Islands are a chain of ten islands and atolls located along the Pilbara coastline. Accommodation is available on Thevenard Island, while Direction Island offers an exclusive-use island experience when operating. Together, they present a side of Western Australia that feels far removed from busier coastal destinations.
Thevenard Island is surrounded by fringing coral reefs and more than 12 kilometres of sandy beaches. Unlike larger island resorts, development remains intentionally low-key, allowing the landscape and marine environment to remain the defining feature of every stay.
The absence of crowds creates a different atmosphere. Days are shaped by the tides, weather, and opportunities to explore both land and sea.
Beachfront Accommodation
Accommodation on Thevenard Island has been designed to complement its coastal setting rather than compete with it.
Guests can choose from two, three and five-bedroom beachfront cabins, along with single and double ensuite rooms. The cabins include fully equipped kitchens, dining and lounge areas, shaded outdoor patios with Weber barbecues, air conditioning, and direct access to the beach.
Families and small groups appreciate the larger cabins, while couples often choose the smaller accommodation options for a quieter island escape.
Every stay places the ocean just steps from the front door, making it easy to begin the day with a swim, enjoy breakfast overlooking the water, or spend the evening watching the sunset from the beachfront deck.
Marine Life at Your Doorstep
The Mackerel Islands sit within a rich marine ecosystem that forms part of the northern extension of the Ningaloo Reef system. Coral gardens begin close to shore, making snorkelling and diving easily accessible without travelling long distances by boat.
Guests regularly encounter colourful reef fish, turtles, rays, dolphins and dugongs while exploring the surrounding waters. Between July and August, migrating humpback whales can often be spotted offshore, while flatback turtles use the beaches throughout the year under carefully managed conservation guidelines.
For many visitors, simply walking along the shoreline provides opportunities to observe wildlife that remains largely undisturbed.
Fishing and Ocean Activities
The Pilbara coastline has long been recognised as one of Australia’s premier fishing destinations, and the Mackerel Islands continue that reputation.
Guests can fish directly from the beach, hire small boats, or join guided sport fishing charters targeting Spanish mackerel, sailfish, giant trevally, coral trout, red emperor and other prized species. Experienced guides tailor each outing to seasonal conditions and preferred fishing styles, with an emphasis on responsible catch-and-release practices where appropriate.
Beyond fishing, guests can explore the reefs by kayak, stand-up paddleboard or snorkel. Equipment hire is available on the island, allowing visitors to spend time on the water at their own pace.
Those who prefer to remain on land can follow the Island Eco Trail, a self-guided walk that circles much of Thevenard Island, passing coral beaches, turtle nesting areas, seabird habitats and coastal lookouts.
Dining and Island Living
Dining on the Mackerel Islands is intentionally uncomplicated and well suited to the island environment.
Each beachfront cabin includes a fully equipped kitchen, allowing guests to prepare meals while overlooking the Indian Ocean. Many visitors pre-order groceries and beverages before arrival so everything is ready when they reach the island.
Outdoor barbecues encourage relaxed evenings with freshly caught seafood or local produce, while occasional experiences such as Dinner Under the Stars provide opportunities to enjoy shared meals in an open-air island setting.
Rather than offering formal fine dining, the islands focus on giving guests the flexibility to shape their own stay while enjoying simple meals in an exceptional location.
A Strong Commitment to Sustainability
Protecting the natural environment is central to the operation of the Mackerel Islands.
Thevenard Island uses a substantial solar energy system, desalination plant, and wastewater treatment infrastructure to provide water and power while reducing environmental impact. These systems support daily operations without compromising the surrounding marine and island ecosystems.
The islands also participate in turtle conservation initiatives and encourage guests to follow wildlife viewing guidelines designed to protect nesting beaches and marine habitats.
Environmental management is not presented as an add-on experience. It forms part of how the islands continue to operate within a fragile coastal environment.
Getting to the Mackerel Islands
Access begins from Onslow, where scheduled boat transfers connect visitors to Thevenard Island in approximately 45 minutes. Scenic flights are also available from Exmouth, providing an aerial view of the Pilbara coastline before landing on the island.
For travellers seeking greater flexibility, Crooked Compass by Air can arrange private charter flights as part of a tailored Western Australia itinerary. Combining private air travel with island transfers allows guests to minimise travel time while connecting the Mackerel Islands with destinations such as Ningaloo Reef, the Kimberley, Karijini National Park, or Broome.
This approach makes one of Western Australia’s most remote island destinations considerably more accessible without compromising its sense of seclusion.
Who the Mackerel Islands Suit
The Mackerel Islands appeal to travellers who prioritise nature over nightlife and space over crowds.
Couples are drawn to the privacy of the island and beachfront accommodation. Families appreciate the freedom to snorkel, fish and explore together in a safe coastal environment. Anglers regard the islands as one of Australia’s premier fishing destinations, while photographers and wildlife enthusiasts value the opportunities to observe marine life in its natural habitat.
The islands also suit travellers who simply want to disconnect from routine and spend time in an environment shaped by ocean, reef and coastline.
Experience the Mackerel Islands with Crooked Compass by Air
The Mackerel Islands offer a distinctive combination of beachfront accommodation, marine wildlife, world-class fishing, and access to one of Western Australia’s most isolated coastal environments.
With Crooked Compass by Air, the islands can be incorporated into a private itinerary that connects some of Australia’s most remarkable remote destinations while simplifying travel between them.
Enquire now to include the Mackerel Islands in your private Western Australia itinerary and discover one of the Pilbara Coast’s most secluded island escapes.
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