Recherche Archipelago Nature Reserve

Recherche Archipelago is a nature reserve along Western Australia's coast comprising more than 100 islands and thousands of reefs and rocky outcrops scattered across the ocean. The waters around these landforms support diverse marine life and create a complex coastal ecosystem.

The area was inhabited by people around 13,000 years ago, as shown by stone tools discovered on one of the islands. Official protection of the region came in the mid-20th century.

Local indigenous communities maintained connections to these lands when the islands were linked to the mainland during periods of lower sea levels.

Visits to the area are restricted and usually available only to select islands through licensed guides. Travelers should expect strict environmental guidelines since the ecosystem here is sensitive to human activity.

One of the islands holds a lake with an unusual pink color created by microorganisms and specific chemical conditions. This distinctive natural feature has become well-known among visitors and gives the archipelago a visually memorable characteristic.

Location: Shire Of Esperance

Operator: Department of Parks and Wildlife, Western Australia

GPS coordinates: -34.10173,123.18780

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:08