Buller Island is an isolated, uninhabited limestone island within the Jurien Bay Marine Park, roughly 15 km offshore from Jurien Bay on Western Australia's Coral Coast. This protected nature reserve serves as a key 'haul-out' site and breeding colony for Australian sea lions — one of the rarest seal species in the world. The surrounding waters feature extensive seagrass meadows and limestone reef systems with caves, grottos, and overhangs decorated with colourful sponges and soft corals. Snorkelling here offers the unforgettable chance to swim alongside curious sea lions in crystal-clear waters, making it one of Western Australia's most unique marine encounters.
Buller Island
IntermediateSKIP
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Poor conditions. Stay out today.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 2.2 mSwell Period 11 sWind Speed 0.1 knPrecipitation 5.1 mmTidal Phase ebb
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
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Moderate risk: Strong Swells
Exposed offshore islands can experience ocean swells, especially in winter months (May–September), making conditions challenging for weaker swimmers.
Moderate risk: Restricted island access
Landing on Buller Island is prohibited to protect sea lion breeding colonies. Snorkellers must remain on boats and follow sea lion watching guidelines.
Moderate risk: Strong ocean swells and currents
The island is exposed to prevailing south-westerly swells and ocean currents. Conditions can be rough, especially in summer sea breezes from November to March.
Moderate risk: Remote island access
Buller Island is a remote offshore nature reserve accessible only by boat or organised tour. There are no facilities, jetties, or emergency services on the island.
Low risk: Boat Traffic
Access is via tour boat; be aware of other vessels and the operator's instructions when entering/exiting the water near the island.
Low risk: Marine Wildlife Interaction Rules
Australian sea lions are protected; strict guidelines prohibit touching, chasing, or landing on the islands. Fines apply for non-compliance.
Low risk: Cold Water Temperatures
The Leeuwin Current brings cool waters year-round; wetsuits are recommended for comfort, particularly outside summer.
Low risk: Variable ocean conditions
Swell, wind and currents can change rapidly, especially outside the protected lee of the island. Only visit with experienced tour operators.
Low risk: Marine wildlife interactions
Australian sea lions are wild animals; maintaining distance (minimum guidelines apply) and never attempting to touch or feed them is essential for safety.
Low risk: Australian Sea Lions
Australian sea lions are protected marine mammals; maintain a respectful distance (minimum 5-10 m) and do not touch or chase them. Mothers can be protective of pups.
Low risk: Marine park restrictions
Buller Island is part of the Jurien Bay Marine Park Nature Reserve. Landing on the island is prohibited to protect sea lion colonies and sensitive vegetation.
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Getting in
Snorkel tour
Entry
Buller Island lies approximately 15 km offshore from Jurien Bay, Western Australia (about a 2.5-hour drive north of Perth via Indian Ocean Drive). The island is accessible only by licensed tour operators who run sea lion snorkelling tours from Jurien Bay. The island is a protected nature reserve; landing is not permitted — all snorkelling is conducted from the boat in the waters around the island.
Parking & facilities
Park at the Jurien Bay marina or town beach area. Most tour operators depart from the Jurien Bay Marina.
parkingtoilets
Snorkel tours with sea lions cost approximately $115-$150 per person (weather permitting, year-round).
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports