Western Australia · Attraction
Lake Thetis Stromatolites
Living fossils, ancient lake
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Lake Thetis, a small saline lake near Cervantes, holds one of the world's rarest natural sights, living stromatolites. These rocky, mound-like structures are built by cyanobacteria similar to microbes found in 3,500-million-year-old rock, making them windows into the earliest forms of life on Earth. A raised boardwalk and a 1.5-kilometre loop trail circle the quiet lake.
The stromatolites at Lake Thetis are thrombolites, a variety with unusual columnar branching that is extremely rare in modern examples. The structures around the lake edge have been dated to approximately 3,370 years old, and the microbial communities living within them represent extraordinary population densities.
The boardwalk and clear interpretive signage make the visit accessible and self-guided, requiring no prior knowledge of geology or biology to appreciate. The walk around the lake takes around 30 to 40 minutes at a relaxed pace. Birdsong and the stillness of the shallow water give the site a quietly meditative quality.
Standard Nambung National Park entry applies. Dogs are not permitted at the site. No toilets are available on site, so plan accordingly before departing Cervantes.
Scenic views
Lookouts near Lake Thetis Stromatolites.
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