Woody Island Nature Reserve

Get nearer to nature on this extraordinary island where dramatic rocky headlands, sheltered bays and tall eucalypt woodlands provide a haven for an abundance of wildlife.

Woody Island is one of more than 100 islands and islets that make up the Recherche Archipelago, a chain of islands stretching 230km from Esperance to the Great Australian Bight. The island is named for its stands of tall trees, a rare sight in this Archipelago.

Wildlife haven

The island lacks snakes and other predators that would normally make wildlife timid. Wander along one of the island walks and enjoy close encounters with curious birds and lazy lizards, or take the plunge into the crystal clear water of Shearwater Bay and explore marine life on the interpretive snorkel trail. You can also throw in a fishing line from the main jetty.

Woody Island Walks

Enjoy the views from the southern side of the island with a short walk to Twiggy’s Landing. Distance: 0.8km return. Allow 20 minutes. Class: 3 Moderately easy.

During the summer breeding season continue along the path past Twiggy’s Landing to the Shearwater Lookout to watch for adult flesh-footed shearwaters returning to their nesting burrows at dusk. Distance: 1km return. Allow 30 minutes. Class: 3 Moderately easy.

Explore the northern side of the island on a peaceful walk to Skinny Dip Bay. Distance: 1.5km return. Allow 45 minutes. Class: 4 Moderately difficult.

The Island Top Walk is a loop that winds through a mix of coastal shrublands and stands of tall trees with stunning views to the mainland and other islands in the Recherche Archipelago. This interpretive walk provides insights into a unique island environment. Distance: 2.1km return. Allow 1 hour. Class: 3 Moderately difficult

Getting there

Woody Island is approximately 30 minutes from Esperance by boat. Please enquire with Woody Island Eco Tours.

This information was provided by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions: dpaw.wa.gov.au