Carnac island is a must do WA day trip for those who appreciate crystal clear turquoise waters and majestic and rare wildlife. The protected bays, reefs and rocky outcrops make Carnac Island Snorkelling among the best WA has to offer. And it’s only 10kms offshore from Fremantle.
As a Class A nature reserve, the Island is untouched by resorts and infrastructure, and will stay that way. There are no ferries to the island, so Carnac is visited mainly by private boat and charters. As a result, it’s not as busy as neighbouring Rottnest Island, so you can quite often find your own perfect spot to explore, and have a private paradise all to yourself.
It is advised not to venture much further than the sand onto the Island due to a large colony of Tiger snakes, so you poor things are stuck swimming, snorkelling and frolicking in the crystal clear waters marvelling at the beautiful creatures that call Carnac Island home.
Ok, so you’ve got your flippers, goggles, snorkel and camera ready? Great, find the perfect charter and get set to dive in to Carnac’s special underwater worlds.
Carnac Island Snorkelling
What might you see?
The western side of the island is arguably the best dive spot with many sections of reef, ledges and outcrops that attract large schools of fish, rare Australian Sea Lions and seals.
Among many species of beautiful soft corals, you’re likely to spot western blue devil fish, octopus and crayfish.
Bottlenose dolphins are a common sight and love to playfully ride the waves from the bow of your vessel as you travel through the beautiful WA waters.
With different seasons come different wildlife events. During Spring, Humpback whales spend many weeks enjoying the waters around the Islands, and can often be seen breaching the water. You may even be lucky enough to hear their amazing song while exploring under the sea.
At the right time of year, keep your eyes peeled for Western Australia’s white humpback whale calf ‘Pearl,’ who was spotted very recently in Flinders bay. The rare baby white whale is not technically an albino like Migaloo; it’s believed she will become darker as she matures; but she is just as fascinating and beautiful.