Houtman Abrolhos Islands National Park

Houtman Abrolhos Islands National Park is a protected island group in the Indian Ocean off the west coast of Western Australia. The chain contains roughly 122 islands arranged in three main groups and is noted for its coral reefs, clear waters and rich seabird life.

The islands are a major destination for diving, snorkelling and birdwatching; many reefs support coral communities that lie unusually far south for the Indian Ocean, and several islands host large seabird breeding colonies. The area is remote and visits typically involve day trips or liveaboard charters from the mainland.

European maritime history is linked to the archipelago - the Dutch ship Batavia was wrecked on reefs here in 1629, an event that led to a notorious mutiny and massacre among the survivors. The islands are now managed for conservation and heritage values as well as sustainable recreation.

The national park lies roughly 60 to 80 kilometres offshore from the port city of Geraldton in Western Australia, spread over a linear area along the continental shelf and surrounded by deep ocean channels.

• Scale and layout: The archipelago comprises about 122 islands, arranged in three main groups - Wallabi, Easter and Pelsaert - spread along the continental shelf off Western Australia.
• Access: Access is by private boat or organised tour and landings are often restricted to protect wildlife and fragile reef habitats, so plan travel with an operator experienced in the islands.

What to See #

• Wallabi Group: Northern island group containing the Batavia wreck site and associated reefs; important for seabird colonies and accessible to experienced divers.
• Easter Group: Central group composed of multiple low islands and reefs, noted for coral communities and reef fishing grounds.
• Pelsaert Group: Southernmost group with extensive reef flats and large seabird breeding colonies; historically linked to shipwreck survivors and salvage activity.