Woody Island Nature Reserve

Woody Island Nature Reserve off the coast of Esperance is just the spot for nature lovers. Surrounded by pristine bushland and ocean, there's plenty of time for bushwalking, hiking, swimming, snorkelling and fishing. Woody Island is part of the 100 islands that make up the Recherche Archipelago, or Bay of Isles as it's known by locals. It's the only island that is open to the public and offers camping. Facilities are excellent and range from camp sites to safari tents with stunning views over eucalyptus trees to Shearwater Bay. All sorts of marine life thrive in the waters surrounding Woody Island including fur seals, sea lions and dolphins. On land you might see marsupials like bandicoots and wallabies, as well as a range of birds including rare sea eagles. To learn more about the local wildlife visit the interpretive centre on the island. There's a swimming platform and an underwater snorkel trail - or you can just relax and soak up the tranquillity. It takes about half an hour to sail to Woody Island from Esperance and daily cruises operate during the season.