Mackerel Islands, Onslow ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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Key details

About the Hotel

Thevenard Island & Direction Island, Western Australia, Onslow, Australia, 6710

Near the beach

Great

8.3

/10

4.5

Loved by guests

Helpful staff
Clean cabins
Easy island access
Delicious dinner

"The island and the surrounding reef systems and fishing opportunities are second to none."

Brendan from Australia

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"The beaches are pristine and deserted, and you can snorkel straight off the beach in front of your cottage on a beautiful reef."

mjgilmor from Australia

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"A dugong swam under our double kayak which was both cruisey and exciting."

Jan M from Australia

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Location

Mackerel Islands are accessible via a 45-minute ferry from Onslow or a 35-minute scenic flight from Exmouth. The islands are located 22 km off the coast of Onslow in Western Australia, offering a secluded escape in the Pilbara region. Thevenard Island and Direction Island are the two islands welcoming guests, providing a wilderness experience near pristine marine life.

Accommodation

Thevenard Island offers accommodations in beachfront cabins with options for 2, 3, and 5 bedrooms, featuring kitchens, dining areas, and outdoor BBQ facilities. Direction Island provides a beach shack that includes 2 bedrooms and sweeping ocean views from its upstairs deck. Each cabin is designed for relaxation, with a direct connection to nature and the scenic beauty of the surroundings.

Activities and Tours

Mackerel Islands offer a diverse range of activities including world-class fishing charters, snorkeling tours to explore coral reefs, and kayaking opportunities to navigate tranquil waters. Guests can participate in turtle and whale watching, with seasonal opportunities to see turtles nesting from September to April and humpback whales migrating between July and August. The area is rich in outdoor experiences, from beachcombing to 4WD sunset trips.

Dining

Guests can enjoy the Dinner Under The Stars event, featuring outdoor dining on Tuesday and Saturday evenings where meals are served in an al fresco setting. The beachfront cabins come with fully equipped kitchens, allowing for self-catered dining experiences against a stunning ocean backdrop. The island general store provides a selection of beverages and supplies for guests to stock up on essentials.

Wildlife Encounters

The Mackerel Islands are a haven for marine wildlife, offering opportunities to snorkel with turtles and observe migrating whales. Travelers can witness nesting sea turtles on the beaches and enjoy birdwatching with sightings of 24 land bird species and 31 migratory birds. The islands' habitats are rich with diverse wildlife, enhancing the nature experience.

Highlights

Location: 45-minute ferry or 35-minute scenic flight from Onslow

Rooms: Beachfront cabins and a private island beach shack

Activities: World-class fishing and snorkeling opportunities

Dining: Dinner Under The Stars event on Tuesday and Saturday

Wildlife: Turtle nesting and whale watching experiences

“This island escape emphasizes pristine natural beauty, especially for those keen on marine life. Cabins provide self-sufficiency, and the chance to dine under the stars adds a touch of magic. I think the commitment to eco-practices elevates it beyond a typical resort.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

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Highlights from guests

Sports & FitnessEndless Activities

Paddleboards and kayaks are available for exploring the reefs just off the beach. Snorkelling is a must!

Kenji from Japan

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Guest ParkingEasy Arrival

They collect your vehicle at the boat ramp. Upon return, your car awaits you right there.

Ingrid from Sweden

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DiningDinner Wow

Dinner under the stars was excellent. It was great food and great company.

Isabelle from France

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Room FeaturesComfort Defined

Cabins are clean and well-equipped. Everything you need is right there.

Mateo from Spain

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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Two-Bedroom Bungalow

2 persons

1080 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Three-Bedroom Bungalow

2 persons

1615 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Family Bungalow

2 persons

2155 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

Non-smoking rooms
Parking
VIP check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Luggage storage
Private beach
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Snorkelling
Canoeing
Billiard tables
Fishing

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Free airport shuttle
Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance
Grocery shopping service
Shops/Commercial services
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area
Picnic area/ Tables
Dinner
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Sun loungers
Sun terrace
BBQ facilities

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Location

Thevenard Island & Direction Island, Western Australia, Onslow, Australia, 6710

Map view

Thevenard Island & Direction Island, Western Australia, Onslow, Australia, 6710

City landmarks

Landmark

Thevenard Island

1.3 mi

Nearby

Thevenard Island

0 ft

Explore Onslow

Explore the Mackerel Islands

Thevenard Island

25 minutes' walk

Thevenard Island features pristine beaches and snorkeling opportunities, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation.

Snorkeling Adventures

25 minutes' walk

Snorkeling at Thevenard Island offers vibrant marine life and coral reefs. Rentals available at local services.

Beach Yoga Sessions

25 minutes' walk

Beach yoga at Thevenard Island provides a tranquil environment. Classes typically run during the mornings; check for schedules.

Island Bistro

5-minute drive

Island Bistro offers fresh seafood and local cuisine in a casual setting. Reservations are not required.

Bayview Café

5-minute drive

Bayview Café features a laid-back atmosphere with gourmet coffee and delicious pastries. Great breakfast options are available.

Thevenard Island Beach Bonfire Nights

25 minutes' walk

Enjoy community bonfire nights on the beach, featuring local music and storytelling. Family-friendly atmosphere guaranteed.

Outdoor Movie Nights

5-minute drive

Catch a film under the stars at local events. Check local listings for schedule; great for all ages.

Getting around

City Centre

Onslow34 min · 14.0 mi

Airports

Onslow, WA (ONS)7 min · 2.9 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 12:00-19:00

Check-out

from 07:00-10:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible at a location nearby (reservation might be needed) at AUD 15 per day.

Internet

No internet access available.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Questions of the users

About Mackerel Islands

Can guests find dining options on the island during their stay?

5 May 2024

The restaurant is currently closed, so self-catering is the way to go for your meals. The beachfront cabins are equipped with kitchens and outdoor BBQ facilities for your convenience.

Is transportation to the Mackerel Islands included in the accommodation price?

12 August 2024

Ferry transfers from Onslow to the islands are priced separately. The cost is $90 per adult for a return journey and $60 for children aged 3 to 12. Infants under 2 years travel free of charge.

What is the best way to get to the Mackerel Islands?

22 September 2024

Access to the Mackerel Islands is straightforward. You can take a ferry from Onslow, which takes about 45 minutes, or arrange for a charter flight from nearby Exmouth.

Are there activities available for kids on the islands?

8 November 2024

There are numerous family-friendly activities, including beach sports, guided nature walks, snorkeling, and fishing, which are great for kids and adults alike.

How can guests observe marine life during their stay?

15 June 2024

Guests can enjoy snorkeling, guided reef walks, and whale watching tours to see the vibrant marine life and possibly spot dolphins and turtles up close.

What wildlife can be seen on the Mackerel Islands?

3 July 2024

The islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including nesting turtles, dolphins, and numerous species of birds. It's a fantastic destination for nature enthusiasts.

Are there options for water sports on the islands?

11 October 2024

Yes, various water sports are available, including snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Equipment can be rented on-site to enhance your experience.

When can guests enjoy the unique Dinner Under the Stars event?

26 January 2025

This popular dining experience occurs on Tuesday and Saturday evenings, allowing guests to enjoy a meal outdoors under the night sky.

Can travelers extend their stay in Onslow before reaching the islands?

14 February 2025

Yes, many guests opt to spend a night or two in Onslow at local accommodations, such as the Onslow Beach Resort, which offers stylish oceanfront rooms and dining options.

Is it possible to reserve moorings for personal boats?

19 March 2025

Yes, guests can bring their own boats. Mooring rentals are available at a nominal fee of $20 per night on Thevenard Island, while mooring on Direction Island is free for guests.