Legendre Island sits at the heart of the Dampier Archipelago, renowned as one of Western Australia's richest marine biodiversity hotspots. Its surrounding waters hold vibrant coral reefs, sponge gardens, and seagrass meadows teeming with over 650 fish species. Green and flatback turtles frequent the shallows, while between July and September humpback whales migrate through these crystal-clear waters. Accessible only by boat, the island offers pristine snorkelling on fringing reefs with excellent visibility, punctuated by sandy beaches and rocky headlands. Day trips and limited camping are permitted on designated recreation zones, making this a true Pilbara wilderness escape.
Legendre Island (Dampier Archipelago)
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Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 2.8 sWind Speed 0.5 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Strong tidal currents
Tidal flows through the archipelago can create swift currents around reefs and headlands, especially on spring tides.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers
Box jellyfish and irukandji may be present in warmer months, particularly November to May.
Moderate risk: Deep water drop-offs
Snorkeling is from the boat and many areas are too deep to stand, requiring strong swimming ability.
Moderate risk: Deep water — no standing
Most snorkeling sites around Legendre Island are too deep to stand. Snorkelers must be comfortable in deep, open water at all times.
Low risk: Boat traffic in channels
The waters between Legendre Island and the mainland are busy with recreational and commercial vessels. Snorkellers must stay vigilant and use a dive flag.
Low risk: Extreme heat
Pilbara summer temperatures frequently exceed 40°C (104°F), raising the risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration.
Low risk: Remote location
Island has no facilities, potable water, or mobile reception. Snorkellers must be fully self-sufficient and carry emergency communications.
Low risk: Choppy surface conditions
The outer islands are exposed to wind and swell, creating choppy water that can make swimming and snorkeling challenging.
Low risk: Coral exposure
Sharp coral and reef edges require care; wear protective footwear and avoid touching coral.
Low risk: Marine stingers (Nov–Apr)
Box jellyfish and other stingers may be present during the warmer summer months (November to April). Stinger suits are recommended.
Low risk: Remote location — limited emergency support
As an outer island accessible only by boat and without facilities, medical evacuation is time-consuming. Snorkelers should travel with an organised tour or experienced skipper.
Low risk: Boat traffic
The Dampier Archipelago is a popular boating and fishing area. Vessels traverse waters around Legendre Island, particularly on weekends. A dive flag should be displayed while snorkeling.
Low risk: Limited visibility in warmer months
Visibility can drop below 5m during the summer wet season (November to March) due to plankton blooms and warmer water.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Access is by private boat or charter only. The nearest mainland launch points are the public boat ramps at Dampier (Ian Williams Crescent off The Esplanade), Karratha Back Beach, and Point Samson. Legendre Island lies approximately 20 km north-west of Dampier within the archipelago.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at the Dampier boat ramp precinct (Ian Williams Crescent) and other mainland boat ramp car parks. No parking on the island.
No entry fee. Camping requires a Parks and Wildlife Service permit. Charter tour costs vary (e.g. Pilbara Dive and Tours).
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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