Onslow & the Mackerel Islands
The cooler coast
The original town of Onslow was proclaimed in 1883, and named after Sir Alexander Onslow the Chief Justice of WA at the time. In early settlement the town was homeport to a fleet of pearling luggers. Due to the situation of the river over the years, it was decided that the town needed to be moved to a better port. The new town of Onslow was established in 1925 and many of the buildings from the old town site were relocated to new Onslow.
Located a short 22kms off the Onslow coast are the Mackerel Islands. The islands and surrounding reef system provides a valuable link for marine life between other marine environments to the south and north. A truly unique and uncrowded destination.
Onslow & the Mackerel Islands Experiences
- Between the Highway and Onslow be amazed as 1000’s of termite mounds stand tall to the harsh conditions of the North West. Great colours as the sun rises and sets.
- Stay at the unique holiday resort situated on the Mackerel Islands.
- Sunrise and sunset can both be seen from Onslow, stroll along the Onslow Boardwalk for the perfect vantage point.
- Jump aboard the local dive charter and SCUBA or snorkel to explore the colourful marine wonderland.
- Wander among the ruins of Old Onslow, including the Old Police Quarters and Old Onslow Cemetery. Access via unsealed roads.
- Contact a fishing charter, wet a line and hook up anything from Coral Trout to Golden Trevally.
- Lunch at a picturesque picnic spot along the beautiful Ashburton River that joins the ocean just south of Onslow, it’s accessible via unsealed roads.
- View a vast collection of machinery, bottles and memorabilia at the Goods Shed Museum.
- From shore throw in a line at the Groyne or Four Mile Creek.
- Between April and October sit back and enjoy the ‘Stairway to the Moon’ phenomenon.
- Discover more at the Onslow Visitor Centre.