Oceania’s coastline is shaped by a mix of wide inlets and deeper indentations that affect local weather, marine life and human use. From shorelines used for shipping to protected waters that support fisheries, these features are an important part of the region’s geography.
There are 6 Gulfs in Oceania, ranging from Gulf St Vincent to Van Diemen Gulf. For each gulf, data is organized by Country/region, Coordinates (lat, long), and Area (km²); you’ll find below.
How do gulfs differ from bays and sounds around Oceania?
Gulfs are typically larger and more deeply indented than bays and are often partially enclosed by land, which can lead to different circulation patterns, sediment deposition, and ecological habitats; the list below shows each gulf’s location and size to help compare them.
Which countries or territories border the gulfs listed?
Many of the gulfs in this list lie along Australian states and territories, while others may border nearby island nations or territories; consult the Country/region column below for the specific jurisdiction of each gulf.
Gulfs in Oceania
| Name | Country/region | Coordinates (lat, long) | Area (km²) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gulf of Carpentaria | Australia (Queensland & Northern Territory) | -17.00,137.00 | 300,000 |
| Van Diemen Gulf | Australia (Northern Territory) | -11.50,131.00 | 14,000 |
| Spencer Gulf | Australia (South Australia) | -34.50,136.50 | 33,000 |
| Gulf St Vincent | Australia (South Australia) | -35.00,138.50 | 6,000 |
| Gulf of Papua | Papua New Guinea | -7.50,144.50 | 60,000 |
| Hauraki Gulf | New Zealand | -36.50,174.80 | 12,000 |
Images and Descriptions
Gulf of Carpentaria
Large, shallow sea between northern Australia and the Arafura Sea, spanning Queensland and the Northern Territory. Important for fisheries, seasonal cyclones, and Indigenous coastal communities; named after Dutch explorer Pieter de Carpentier.
Van Diemen Gulf
Sheltered gulf off northern Australia between the mainland and Melville/Tiwi Islands; features extensive mangroves, tidal flats, and Darwin Harbour influences. Named for Anthony van Diemen, it supports commercial fisheries and important migratory bird habitats.
Spencer Gulf
Long, narrow inlet on South Australia’s coast, hosting ports such as Port Lincoln and Whyalla. Known for seafood industries, unique oceanography, rich seagrass beds, conservation areas, and offshore aquaculture and coastal industries.
Gulf St Vincent
Sheltered gulf off Adelaide, bounded by Yorke and Fleurieu Peninsulas. Shallow waters host ports, recreational beaches, seagrass meadows, and urban estuaries; central to regional shipping, fishing, and coastal communities.
Gulf of Papua
Broad bay on southern Papua New Guinea fed by major rivers like the Fly and Purari. Rich in mangroves, wetlands, and fisheries, it features complex tidal systems and holds strong cultural and economic importance for coastal PNG communities.
Hauraki Gulf
Semi-enclosed gulf northeast of Auckland, including Waiheke and Great Barrier Islands. Designated marine park with diverse wildlife, popular boating and fishing grounds, volcanic islands, and strong cultural significance to Māori.
