Mistaken Island, a Class 1A Nature Reserve, is a prized gem for divers and snorkelers, situated on a peninsula near Albany, Western Australia. The island, located at the northern end of Goode Beach, is famously named for its little penguin burrows, which were once mistaken for rabbit holes. The waters immediately adjacent to the island are home to mussel cultivation, and the entire area is part of the protected King George Sound.
There are two primary ways to explore the site's rich marine environment:
For Divers and Snorkelers: A shoreline swim is a great option. By entering the water and keeping the shore on your left, you can swim around a small rock formation and take in the sights of small bommies, sand patches, and seagrass beds before returning to your entry point. This route offers a leisurely way to see a variety of marine life.
For Divers: A more adventurous dive can be had by heading out across a sand patch to the right of the island. The best diving is typically found on the southern side of the island.
As you explore the kelp beds and rock formations, you can expect to find a diverse array of fish and invertebrates, including silver drummers, big eyes, leatherjackets, scorpionfish, gobies, blennies, pipefish, and wrasse. While enjoying the stunning natural beauty, be aware of boat traffic in the area and be mindful of the protected environment.
