Rottnest Island

Just a short ferry ride from Perth, Western Australia, lies car-free ​​Rottnest Island (Wadjemup)​​, a paradise famous for its incredibly cute and photogenic ​​quokkas​​. This sun-drenched island boasts over ​​60 stunning beaches​​ and secluded coves, many framed by crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for ​​swimming, snorkeling​​, and diving among vibrant coral reefs. Explore the unique landscape, shaped by salt lakes and native scrub, by renting a ​​bike​​ or hopping on the island's bus. Enjoy a relaxed pace, beautiful scenery, and unforgettable encounters with its famous, smiling residents – it's a true gem off the WA coast.

Recommended sightseeing time: 1 Day

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Rottnest Island Reviews

4.8/5
42 reviews
4/5
From city us a bit far. Limit time there and back. But enough.
review picture
5/5
The scenery here is beautiful, the water is clear and the sand is fine. Not only can you snorkel, you can also ride a bicycle around the island and enjoy the breath of nature. There are also many cute little animals called quokka on the island. They often have a smile on their faces and are very adorable.
review picture
5/5
Perfect day trip from Perth. Beautiful white sand beaches,stunning view. Take island explorer bus,to stop at any 19 bus stop within the island.
review picture
5/5
When you come to Western Australia, please make sure to arrange at least one day to visit Rottnest Island to find the happiest animals in the world!
review picture
5/5
A must go place in Perth! Quokka! Quokka! Quokka! surrounded by quokkas, love their cute little body, love their smile, love everything about them!
review picture
Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island (Wadjemup) offers a slice of paradise just a short ferry ride from Perth’s skyline, featuring iconic encounters with its famous smiling quokkas. Its idyllic location makes it easily accessible by ferry from Fremantle, Perth, or Hillarys. Read this guide and start your island adventure!​

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Return
37% off
From 478.48AU$ 303
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30% off
From 478.48AU$ 333

About Rottnest Island

About Rottnest Island

​Rottnest Island (Wadjemup)​​ offers a unique island escape just a short ferry ride from Perth. Reconnect with nature as you explore ​​breath-taking beaches​​, encounter the world-famous smiling ​​quokkas​​, and discover the rich Aboriginal ​​cultural heritage​​ of Wadjemup. Choose from diverse ​​accommodation options​​ including eco-tents, beachside hotels, and campgrounds. Enjoy ​​car-free exploration​​ by bike or bus, world-class ​​snorkeling​​, and seasonal experiences. ​​Plan your rejuvenating getaway​​ to this Western Australian island paradise today.

Rottnest Island Reviews

4.8/5
42 reviews
4/5
From city us a bit far. Limit time there and back. But enough.
review picture
5/5
The scenery here is beautiful, the water is clear and the sand is fine. Not only can you snorkel, you can also ride a bicycle around the island and enjoy the breath of nature. There are also many cute little animals called quokka on the island. They often have a smile on their faces and are very adorable.
review picture
5/5
Perfect day trip from Perth. Beautiful white sand beaches,stunning view. Take island explorer bus,to stop at any 19 bus stop within the island.
review picture
5/5
When you come to Western Australia, please make sure to arrange at least one day to visit Rottnest Island to find the happiest animals in the world!
review picture
5/5
A must go place in Perth! Quokka! Quokka! Quokka! surrounded by quokkas, love their cute little body, love their smile, love everything about them!
review picture

Where is the Rottnest Island & How to Get There

Where is the Rottnest Island & How to Get There

Location: Rottnest Island is just 19 km from the coast of Fremantle, 33 km from Perth’s city centre and 22 km from Hillarys, Wadjemup / Rottnest Island is easy to get to by ferry, by boat and by air.

Transport Method​

​Experience Highlights​

​Key Details​

​Fly​

Spectacular aerial views of Wadjemup (Rottnest Island), southern beaches & surrounding islands

• Seaplane/Helicopter flights
• Approx. 30-min scenic flights
• Operators: Rottnest Air Taxi, Kookaburra Air

​Private Boat​

Ultimate freedom to explore at your own pace

• Access secluded bays & anchorages
• Permits required
• Public moorings available
• Ideal for sailors & experienced boat owners

​Ferry​

Most popular & convenient public access

• ​​Departure Points​​:
- Perth CBD (Barrack St Jetty): 90 mins
- Fremantle (Victoria Quay): 30 mins
- North Fremantle (Rous Head): 45 mins
- Hillarys Boat Harbour: 45 mins
• ​​Operators​​: Rottnest Express, Sealink Rottnest Island

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How to Get Around on Rottnest Island

How to Get Around on Rottnest Island

Wadjemup/Rottnest Island is renowned for its natural beauty and active outdoor lifestyle, and is also famous for its transportation that it lacks. There are few cars allowed on the island. When you explore all that the island has to offer, there is a unique sense of tranquility.

Cycling on Rottnest Island

Cycling is a healthy and efficient way to explore the island, allowing you to stop anytime and anywhere. Bicycles or electric bicycles, accessories and one-day or multi-day rentals are available for rent.

Walk on Rottnest Island

Wadjemup/Rottnest Island offers many island experiences and is just a few steps away from the main settlement, so you will never be far from the event venue. For those who wish to venture further away, you can explore the rich natural wonders on foot. From guided walking experiences to exploring the Wadjemup Bidi trail network, every step tells a story.

Take Bus on Rottnest Island

Take a shuttle bus tour of the island. There are buses running seamlessly between Thomson Bay, Jody Bay and Kingston every day. You can take the Quokka Coaches Island Explorer drop-off bus, which has 19 stops throughout the island. There are also bus Tours, allowing you to easily explore the island on a comfortable air-conditioned bus with in-depth explanations along the way.

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Things to do on Rottnest Island

​​With its unique blend of natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere established, Rottnest Island invites you to discover the diverse ways to fill your days. Whether you're drawn to wildlife encounters, water adventures, cultural exploration, or simply relaxing amid stunning scenery, here are the top things to do on Wadjemup.​

Whale Watching on Rottnest Island

Things to do on Rottnest Island

Source from Rottnest Island Official Website

Look for unique spray holes or barnacle corpses on the ferry. During the journey to and from the mainland, you may spot whales. Upon arrival, head to one (or all) land island viewing platforms and catch a glimpse of these gentle giants in the waters of the surrounding Marine protected area. Boat and plane Tours that take you to explore the ocean or above it also offer you a unique and advantageous location for your whale-watching experience.

From August to December, approximately 35,000 migrating whales wander in the calm ocean on the island. During this period, newborn calves also play in the protected waters, creating a unique seasonal wonder.

Lakes & Salt Lakes of Rottnest Island

Things to do on Rottnest Island

Source from Rottnest Island Official Website

Many salt lakes on Rottnes Island, including Baghdad Lake, Vincent Lake, Herschel Lake, Garden Lake, Government Building Lake and Serpentine Lake, are permanent wetland facilities on the island. They have water all year round and even have their own surrounding beaches. Other lakes, such as Pink Lake, Wolf Star Lake, Negri Lake and Twin Pierce Lake, tend to dry up in summer, leaving large areas of white or pink salt fields.

In sharp contrast to the brilliant blue summer sky of Wadjemup, the true magic occurs when the sun sets. As it begins to sink below the horizon and the light starts to dim, the dried-up salt lake bed reflects back the colors of the burning sunset, creating a splendid canvas for the unique Wadjemup experience.

Ricey Beach of Rottnest Island

Things to do on Rottnest Island

Source from Rottnest Island Official Website

Take the Quokka Coaches Island Explorer bus and get off at stop 15. Walk along the walkway of the highway and you will find Ricey Beach spreading out in front of you. Alternatively, you can also ride a bicycle and start from the main settlement of Thomson Bay. It takes 20 minutes by car and you can either go around the northern coast or cross the central road on the island.

In addition, there are many good fishing activities near Wadjemup Beach, so it's difficult to choose the best beach. But Ricey Beach is famous for having the best fishing conditions on the island.

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Plan Your Trip to Rottnest Island

🗓️ ​​Sample Itineraries​

​Weekend Escape (2 Days)​

​Day​

​Morning​

​Afternoon​

​Evening​

Day 1

Ferry → Bike rental → Wadjemup Museum

Snorkel at The Basin

Sunset at Pinky Beach + dinner at Lontara

Day 2

Quokka spotting → Cathedral Rocks

Swim at Little Salmon Bay

Ferry return with Gelato from Simmo's

​Family Adventure (3 Days)​

  • ​Day 1:​​ Ferry → Bus tour → Swim at Thomson Bay
  • ​Day 2:​​ Guided kayak tour → Rottnest Bakery lunch → Wadjemup Bidi trails
  • ​Day 3:​​ Bike to Parker Point → Submarine tour → Departure

📅 ​​When to Visit​

​Season​

​Weather​

​Pros​

​Cons​

​Dec-Feb​

Hot & sunny (25-35°C)

Best swimming/snorkeling

Crowded & peak pricing

​Mar-May​

Mild (20-25°C)

Wildflowers, fewer crowds

Cooler evenings

​Jun-Aug​

Cool (15-20°C)

Whale watching, winter deals

Limited water activities

​Sep-Nov​

Warming up

Wildflower blooms, ideal hiking

Variable winds

💡 ​​Local Insight:​​ Visit April-May or Sep-Oct for perfect balance of weather, prices, and wildlife.

🧳 ​​Packing Checklist​

  • ​Must-Haves:​​ Sunscreen (reef-safe), reusable water bottle, wide-brim hat
  • ​Gear:​​ Swimwear, snorkel set, comfy walking shoes
  • ​Winter Add:​​ Windbreaker, wetsuit boots, warm layers

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Questions about Rottnest Island

  • What is so special about Rottnest Island?

    Famous for its laid back atmosphere and beautiful beaches, Rottnest Island lies just 19 kilometres offshore from Perth surrounded by the sparkling Indian Ocean.
  • Is 1 day enough for Rottnest Island?

    While a day trip to Rottnest Island is possible and can be enjoyable, it may not be enough time to fully experience all the island has to offer. A day trip can be a great way to get a taste of Rottnest, but an overnight stay allows for a more relaxed and comprehensive experience.
  • How long is the ferry from Perth to Rottnest?

    approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
  • Can you do Rottnest Island by yourself?

    Our most recommended Rottnest Island Solo travelers' tours. Enjoy the best of Rottnest Island with bike rental and same-day return ferry tickets. Get in the saddle and explore this unique island without cars at your own pace. Enjoy a coffee at Hillarys Boat Harbour before boarding.
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Rottnest Island Ferry Tickets