About this place
What to expect
Thistle Cove is a beautiful bay with a spectacular coastal outlook and a 'whistling' rock. Captain Matthew Flinders named Thistle Cove in 1802 after the ship's master John Thistle. Exploring the southern coast in HMS Investigator, Flinders was pleased when Thistle discovered a source of fresh water here. Low-lying areas on the coastal plain are dotted with small freshwater wetlands which support distinctive communities of plants and animals. These freshwater sources were also important to traditional Aboriginal people who camped here during seasonal journeys to and from the coast. Natural features near Thistle Cove are connected to Mandooboornup (Frenchman Peak) in an Aboriginal Dreaming story. Enjoy a picnic (table provided) and explore marvellously sculpted rock formations that capture the sounds of the wind and waves.