Mako: Island of Secrets

On Mako Island, three young mermaids named Sirena, Nixie and Lyla stand guard over the Moon Pool and the delicate balance of magic it protects. Their mission is simple in theory to keep outsiders away and preserve the pool's power for their pod. But during a full moon a reckless moment changes everything. A curious land teenager named Zac slips through the moonlit waters and forges a strange bond with Mako. The incident triggers a chain of consequences that forces the mermaid pod to exile the trio from their community. With their place in the ocean at stake, the girls resolve to go ashore, gain legs, and reclaim Zac's powers to win back what they have lost.

Produced as part of the Mako Mermaids franchise, this 2013 Australian series was created by Jonathan M. Shiff. It features Allie Bertram as Mimmi, Isabel Durant as Ondina, Linda Ngo as Weilan, Chai Hansen as Zac Blakely, and Gemma Forsyth as Evie McLaren.

Mako Island's mermaid world added a kid friendly entry to ocean myths, echoing the popularity of underwater fantasy. It contributed to a broader wave of tween friendly fantasy about female friendship and resilience, and helped keep mermaid stories circulating in international markets through broadcasts and streaming.

Critics praised the show for its energetic blend of comedy and action and for presenting a coming of age vibe through entwined friendships and loyalty. Main themes include belonging, identity and the pressure of leadership as the mermaids juggle their duties with new responsibilities on land and in the pool.

There are no widely reported major awards for this title. It found its audience primarily through television networks and streaming platforms rather than award recognition, which is common for genre driven tween series. Its lasting impact comes from fans and the ongoing Mako Mermaids universe.