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  1. Home
  2. Destination Perth
  3. Perth Islands and Reefs
  4. Carnac Island Nature Reserve

Carnac Island Nature Reserve

We recognise and acknowledge Aboriginal people as the traditional owners of Carnac Island Nature Reserve.

Boating, swimming, snorkelling or diving – we think you’ll give this island the seal of approval.

No dogs

Carnac Island Nature Reserve
Tourism WA
  • Need to know
  • Location
  • About this park
  • Activities

About this park

Carnac Island Nature Reserve is a picturesque limestone island 10km off Fremantle. What makes the island stand out from the crowd are some rather unusual visitors that pop in now and then.

Australian sea-lions use the island as rest area, before slipping back into the ocean to feed. This animal is the rarest sea lion in the world, and the only type found in Australia. See them basking on the beach and frolicking in the water. Do stay safe though and keep your distance. Despite looking cute and cuddly, sea lions are large creatures and can be aggressive if they feel threatened.

Talking about staying safe, when going onto the island visitors should not leave the beach and venture inland. Carnac has a significant population of tiger snakes, one of the world’s most deadly snake species. It is one of only two islands in Western Australia where tiger snakes are found.

Bird watchers will love the variety of seabirds here. Little penguins, wedge-tailed shearwaters, and crested terns are just some of the species that nest on Carnac. While birdwatching, please remember to stay clear of any nesting areas to avoid disturbing the birds.

Day tripping by boat is the best and only way to visit the island. You don’t have to go onto the island to enjoy its beauty just sit back and watch the activity from your boat or kayak. You can also explore underwater by swimming, snorkelling, or diving.

Safety information

Plan when to visit. Read this safety information about swimming, paddling, kayaking, snorkelling and diving. Consider travelling with a personal location beacon (PLB). In the event you need to be rescued it could save your life! 

Avoid venturing inland due to the significant population of tiger snakes. 

Keep your distance from sea lions as they can become aggressive if they feel threatened.

Activities

Canoeing and kayaking

Scuba diving

Snorkelling

Swimming

Plants, wildlife and fungi

Visit the Atlas of Living Australia for a list of species recorded in Carnac Island Nature Reserve.

Traditional Owners

We recognise and acknowledge Aboriginal people as the traditional owners of Carnac Island Nature Reserve.

Need to know

No dogs

No dogs (or other pets) allowed in this park

No park entry fee

Entry to Carnac Island Nature Reserve is free.

Park office / Contact

Wanneroo Parks and Wildlife Office

Phone: (08) 9303 7700

Contact this office by email

Location

Destination Perth
Perth Islands and Reefs
Perth Coast & Plain

Getting there

Carnac Island is located 10km offshore Southwest of Fremantle.

Acknowledgement of Country

The Government of Western Australia acknowledges the traditional owners throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders both past and present.

Connect with us

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Main navigation

  • Home
  • Explore WA's parks

    All parks

    Park Finder Map

    Attractions and places to visit

    Trails

    Regions of WA

    • Australia's South West
    • Australia's Coral Coast
    • Australia's North West
    • Australia's Golden Outback
    • Destination Perth
  • Experiences
  • Activities
  • Know before you go

    Know before you go

    Get the practical ‘know how’ to adventure into Western Australia’s national parks confidently, responsibly and safely.

    Safety

    Natural area hazards

    Plan your activity

    Be prepared

    Travelling in remote locations

    Bushfires and prescribed burns

    Bushwalking safety

    Camping safety

    Mountain biking safety

    Swimming safety

    Adventure safety

    Beaches and coastal areas

    Rivers, lakes and lagoons

    Fishing, boating, paddling, snorkelling and diving

    Access friendly places

    Access to nature north of Perth

    Access to nature south of Perth

    Access to trails

    Caring for our parks

    Marine conservation

    Fees

    Park entry fees

    Park passes

    Where can I purchase a Parks Pass?

    Camping fees

    Attraction fees

    Other fees

    Concessions

    Fee waivers

    Camping

    Where and when to camp

    Campground facilities

    Campfires, firewood and cooking appliances

    Powered campsites and generators

    Group camping

    Online campsite booking terms and conditions

    Current campfire conditions

    Campgrounds availability for non-bookable campgrounds

    Online campsite bookings - FAQ's

    When to go

    Adventure activities

    Drones in parks

    Tours and accommodation

    Conducting an event in a park

    Pets in parks

    Getting around

    Park visitor guides, maps and itineraries

    Park visitor guides

    Aboriginal cultural heritage in parks

  • Get inspired
  • Where to stay
  • Park alerts

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