West Moore Island

The immediate vicinity of West Moore Island lacks on-site restaurants, with most dining options located on the mainland. Visitors often rely on the island's self-catering facilities or nearby lodges like the permanently closed West Moore Island Fishing Lodge[2]. For mainland options, Whim Creek Hotel[1], approximately 50 km from the island, serves pub-style meals but remains closed as of recent reviews[1]. Travelers typically plan meals in advance, sourcing supplies from coastal towns like Point Samson or Karratha before embarking on island excursions.

Accommodation on West Moore Island includes an 8-bedroom lodge managed for workforce use[5], which occasionally hosts visitors through prior arrangements. The now-permanently-closed West Moore Island Fishing Lodge previously offered stays but no longer operates[2]. On the mainland, Whim Creek Hotel[1] provides basic lodging and RV facilities, though its operational status is currently unclear based on recent user reviews. For reliable stays, visitors often opt for hotels in Karratha or Port Hedland, as the island's remoteness limits immediate lodging options.

West Moore Island's beach provides basic amenities including picnic tables and bathroom access[4], though facilities are minimal due to its secluded nature. The island's lodge features generator-powered electricity and desalinated water[3], catering to essential needs. Rental equipment for fishing or kayaking is typically arranged through private charters or mainland providers, with no on-site rental services directly at the beach.

Fishing dominates the island's activities, with charters often departing from Point Samson[3]. Clear waters allow for snorkeling and scuba diving, while kayaking and paddleboarding are popular along the sheltered coastline[4]. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot marine species and migratory birds, complemented by occasional guided tours highlighting the area's geological and cultural history[3][5].

The island's rugged terrain and lack of paved pathways limit wheelchair accessibility. Beach access requires navigating sandy shores and tidal zones, with no dedicated ramps or mobility equipment rentals. Visitors with disabilities should consult charter operators about boat boarding assistance and lodge accessibility prior to booking.

No dedicated parking exists on West Moore Island, as access requires boat transport from mainland points like Point Samson[3]. Visitors park at coastal departure points, where free parking is generally available near marinas or charter meeting areas. Remote access ensures no parking fees, though boat charter costs apply for island transfers.

West Moore Island once operated as a pearl farm before transitioning to tourism[3], with its lodge built on remnants of this industry. The island's name hints at its maritime history, while nearby Balla Balla Station[1] was a critical 1890s hub for copper and gold mining logistics. Cyclones have dramatically shaped the region, including an 1898 storm that devastated the original Balla Balla port[1].

Nearby Depuch Island[3], with its striking rock formations, serves as a key attraction visible from West Moore Island. The historic Balla Balla townsite[1], remnants of a 19th-century port, lies north of the island, offering glimpses into the region's mining and pearling past. Guided fishing charters[3] and geological tours provide structured ways to explore the area's natural and historical highlights.