The waters beyond low-water mark are covered in the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park Management Plan.  

The reserve is noteworthy for its populations of sea-birds, Australian sea lions, tiger snakes and king skinks. Although reserved primarily for nature conservation, some passive recreational activities are permitted in limited areas.  

The Aboriginal name for Carnac Island is though to be Ngooloormayup.   Several Nyoongar dreaming stories are associated with local coastal environments including offshore islands such as Carnac.