It is an extension of the southern headland of West Bay and is only separated from the mainland by tide or wind driven waves.

[1] Paisley Islet was formed about 7500 years ago after sea levels rose at the start of the Holocene.

[1] The islet is located in waters of a depth of about 9.1 metres (30 feet) that partially conceal wave-cut platforms and that are subject to rolling seas.

[1] The islet is part of the Flinders Chase National Park and has been specifically proclaimed as a prohibited area in order to protect breeding seabirds such as crested terns.

[1][4] Since December 2012, the waters around the islet has been part of a habitat protection zone located within the boundaries of the Western Kangaroo Island Marine Park.