Carnac Island

About Carnac Island

Carnac Island is a things to do venue in Fremantle, Western Australia.

James Stirling later renamed it Pulo Carnac Island in honour of Second Lieutenant John Rivett Carnac. The island was used for various purposes over the years, including as a quarantine station and for defence purposes.

Carnac Island is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Australian sea lions, bottlenose dolphins, and New Zealand fur seals. It is densely populated with snakes, particularly tiger snakes, and is known for the abundance and size of its snake population.

The origin of the tiger snake colony is debated, but one theory suggests that it dates back to 1929 when a man named Lindsay “Rocky” Vane dumped his tiger snake collection on the island. Due to the lack of permanent fresh water sources, most animals struggle to survive on the island.

The king skinks that inhabit the island often engage in confrontations with tiger snakes. In addition to its unique fauna, Carnac Island is also classified as an Important Bird Area.

It supports a large colony of the vulnerable fairy tern species and small numbers of other nesting seabirds. With its rich history, unique wildlife, and remote location, Carnac Island is a must-visit destination for nature and outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitors should exercise caution and stay on the beach due to the island

Good to know

• Type: Things to Do
• Area: Fremantle, Western Australia
• Phone: (08) 9303 7700
• Website: visit ↗

Frequently asked questions

Find more things to do in Fremantle or browse the Fremantle local guide.