Rottnest Island serves as a beloved day-trip destination from Perth tour, presenting a scenic and tranquil spot just a short distance from the coast of Western Australia. One is strongly encouraged to tour this blissful spot when nearby.
An exceptional characteristic of Rottnest Island is its quokka population, deemed some of the most adorable animals on Earth. These lovable marsupials, renowned for their grin-like facial expressions, are noted for their friendly demeanour, which is attributed to the lack of predators in their environment.
The designation ‘Rottnest’ was coined by a Dutch explorer who erroneously concluded that the quokkas were a type of rat, hence the island’s initial label as “rats’ nest island.” Nowadays, the community fondly calls it “Rotto.”
.
Go on a cruise
For those visiting Rottnest Island, it’s advisable to seize the chance to experience the island from the sea by partaking in one of the offered cruises. These voyages present exquisite vistas of the clear turquoise sea and the island’s coastline.
On a seafood excursion, guests can catch lobsters and savour the ocean’s bounty straight from the source. They can also relish local seafood preparations and taste wines from the distinguished Margaret River, celebrated as one of the leading wine-producing areas in Australia.
A sailing trip provides the opportunity to scout the island’s snorkelling havens, view vibrant corals and exotic fish, and experience stand-up paddleboarding.
You can take a selfie with a Quokka
Rottnest Island has the most significant number of quokkas in the world, with an estimated population of 10,000 of these distinctive animals. Bald Island, in proximity, hosts a smaller number of quokkas, and there are several scattered populations on the mainland. Nevertheless, Rottnest Island is unanimously acclaimed as the premier place to watch and enjoy these enchanting creatures.
Quokkas are small marsupials that resemble miniature kangaroos, and their young are carried within their pouches.
Due to the absence of natural threats, these creatures are inherently friendly and curious. They might approach you in greeting, but it’s important to remember that they should not be touched. Nonetheless, you are welcome to snap a selfie with them.
Notables such as Hugh Jackman, Margot Robbie, and Chris Hemsworth have all captured selfies with the quokkas at Rottnest Island, reflecting their allure.
Rottnest Island Aboriginal Experience
Rottnest Island bears profound historical and cultural importance within Aboriginal traditions. Initially, it was the dwelling place of the Noongar people until around 7,000 years ago when escalating sea levels caused the island to become isolated from the continent.
Subsequently, it was known as “Wadjemup,” which translates to “place in the sea where the spirits go,” it held considerable cultural relevance in ancestral stories.
In the year 1838, a facility for Aboriginal incarceration for those who resisted displacement was founded on Rottnest Island. Throughout the following century, it confined over 3,600 detainees.
A visit to Rottnest Island, coupled with an Aboriginal cultural exploration, provides an enlightening journey into the island’s historical essence for the Noongar community. Visitors can select from various excursion types, including the Wadjemup journey, which encompasses a museum stop, a ceremonial sand activity, and an Aboriginal Dreamtime narrative that brings forth aspects of Noongar tradition, embracing their dialects and chants. Furthermore, there is a guided walk that escorts you to several spots on the island that are of particular importance to the Noongar populace.
Escorted Coach Excursion
While pedal biking is widely embraced as a way to navigate Rottnest Island, this guided outing presents the comfort of travel in an air-conditioned coach for those seeking a more relaxed mode of transport.
Guests to this locale can look forward to capturing selfies with the island’s quokkas, investigating World War II-era defence sites, observing the seals at Cathedral Rocks, and participating in the seasonal activity of whale observation during the colder months.
Gabbi Karniny Bidi
The Gabbi Karniny Bidi route offers a journey from Vlamingh Lookout to the island’s intriguing salt lakes, featuring the Pink Lake.
En route after exploring Little Parakeet Bay, a break can be taken at Geordie Bay for refreshment before the trail winds down at Longreach Bay.
Try skydiving and challenge yourself
Skydiving is highly suggested for visitors to Australia, and it is particularly awe-inspiring above the scenic terrain of Rottnest Island.
Geronimo Skydiving is the sole provider of skydiving experiences on the island of Western Australia. Experience the exhilaration of leaping from altitudes as high as 15,000 feet, relishing 66 seconds of freefall before the parachute unfurls.
Costs for this breathtaking activity span from $399 to AUD 549, which fluctuates based on the chosen altitude for the dive. In addition, one can buy packages that include photos and videos to document the adventure, allowing you to share those special moments with family and friends.
Go snorkeling
Rottnest Island is a hub for aquatic enthusiasts, boasting a rich tapestry of marine biodiversity ideal for snorkelling. With a roster of 135 species of tropical fish, lively coral formations, and even remnants of sunken ships, the island serves as a prime spot for subaquatic adventure.
Noteworthy snorkelling locations on the island include the secluded Little Salmon Bay at the island’s southern extremity; the Basin, notable for its proximity to Thomson Bay, the principal settlement; and Parker Point, home to a remarkable snorkelling path complete with educational signs detailing the indigenous marine species.
Snorkelling equipment is available for visitors to bring along or hire from Pedal and Flipper, a local provider of bicycles and snorkelling gear. The rental fee is AUD 20 for a complete adult kit and AUD 15 for a junior kit for a day.
Tours offer chances to delve into the art of snorkelling, paddling a kayak, or standing-up paddleboarding across the serene Rottnest waters, with potential sightings of dolphins or sea lions. These excursions ensure a visit to all the premier snorkelling sites the island has to offer.
Consider going on a segway tour
Aerial Sightseeing Adventure
Taking Rottnest’s splendour from a seaplane’s viewpoint is an unforgettable adventure. While the ferry is commendable, this aerial approach certainly offers an extra dose of excitement.
The journey from the Swan River to Rottnest grants panoramic views of Perth’s skyline, Kings Park, and the port city of Fremantle, accentuating the striking coastal landscapes.
Flexible Bus Tour
The hop-on, hop-off service presents a flexible way to discover Rottnest Island at a leisurely rhythm. This option affords the freedom to visit areas of your interest and savour the picturesque vistas at each halt.
The service runs a regular timetable, circulating every 30 minutes from 8:30 in the morning to 3 in the afternoon. Passes can be secured via the Internet or at the Visitor Center in Thomson Bay.
There are 19 designated stops across the island, each offering access to stunning beaches and secluded bays. A day’s pass is available for AUD 25.
Culinary Delights at Isola Bar e Cibo
Isola Bar e Cibo, renowned on the island, delivers an array of Italian dishes crafted from locally sourced produce, featuring regional seafood and meticulously mixed beverages. Their wine selection encompasses Western Australian and Italian bottles, providing a varied range.
The ambience of this establishment, perched by the water’s edge, is inviting, presenting breathtaking ocean vistas. It’s as if you’re savouring a meal along the Italian coastline.
Isola welcomes guests from 11:30 a.m. till late, except on Tuesdays. They offer lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Moreover, patrons are invited to drop in for a refreshment anytime while they are open.
Explore the Island by Bicycle
Bicycling is the favoured way to traverse Rottnest Island, providing a chance to absorb the scenic 24-kilometre (15-mile) coastal perimeter. Although navigating the island is typically smooth sailing, completing an entire circuit might leave you with weary legs as the day draws closer.
The car-free roads on Rottnest Island make for a tranquil and environmentally friendly biking adventure, contributing to the island’s serene appeal.
Travellers may transport their bicycles on the ferry for approximately $15 to AUD 20 or hire one upon reaching the island.
Pedal and Flipper stands out as a go-to establishment for bike hires, charging AUD 30 for a full day for adults and an extra AUD 15 for each subsequent day. For an afternoon hire, post 1 p.m., adult bicycles are available for AUD 16. The hire includes both a helmet and a lock for safety and security.
For those needing additional equipment, child trailers, baby seats, and surfboard racks can be acquired for $41 to AUD 51 daily.
Electric bicycles are also available for those looking for a more leisurely ride at AUD 71 for the first day and a continued rate of AUD 41 for additional days.
Fishing
Numerous angling Rottnfishingand. The marine habitat around the island teems with a wide variety of fish, including species like tailor, herring, bream, skippy, and flathead.
Anglers can come equipped with fishing apparatus or hire gear from local establishments such as the Rottnest General Store or the Geordie Bay General Store.
While the island has specific sanctuary areas where angling is prohibited, there remain abundant accessible fishing spots. The docks at Thomson Bay and Geordie Bay are favoured by many, and for those targeting salmon, Fish Hook Bay is particularly recommended.
On the island’s northern side, Ricey Beach not only captivates with its picturesque views but also with its shallow reef platforms, which are perfect for angling different species, including tailors, salmon, and large skippy.
The City of York Bay is a sought-after spot for snagging King George whiting. Radar Reef boasts a reputation for beach angling, where one might encounter hefty yellowtail kingfish, Samson fish, and sizable tailors.
Delight in an Idyllic Beach Retreat
Rottnest invites you to savour moments of relaxation on any of its 63 enticing beaches.
The Basin, conveniently located near Thomson Bay, is favoured for its idyllic environment conducive to rejuvenating swims and basking on its sun-kissed sands. For your comfort, it is equipped with lifeguard supervision, seating arrangements, showers, and lavatories.
Nestled in a more secluded area, Little Parakeet Bay offers a tranquil setting for swimming and snorkelling, with its gentle waters shielded by a coral barrier. Though facilities are sparse, its vicinity to Geordie Bay makes it a practical choice for those searching for a quiet escape.
Geordie Bay is home to an expansive stretch of pristine white sands framing the vast azure horizon. The beach’s appeal is heightened by the availability of local cafes, beachfront bars, and warm showers for beachgoers’ convenience.
Experience the Sunset at Pinky's with a Beverage in Hand
Pinky’s on Rottnest Island is a sought-after locale renowned for its splendid beachfront and diverse drink selection. The ambience is further enlivened on weekends with performances by local bands and DJs. Additionally, you can partake in a morning buffet breakfast while enjoying the sweeping views of the sea.
Trekking
The scenic allure of Rottnest Island is captured through its range of trekking paths. These trails are generally of a moderate challenge level, allowing for a leisurely pace to soak in the island’s striking natural vistas and the possibility of spotting quokkas en route.
Enjoy cocktails by the water
The establishment boasts a selection of beverages with a picturesque backdrop. Positioned near the water’s edge, patrons at the Samphire Resort have the luxury of lounging in the sand.
It’s an idyllic spot to unwind following a day of island adventure.
Karlinyah Bidi
At 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) in length, the Karlinyah Bidi trail is an adventure that unfolds over 2 to 3 hours, with duration fluctuating based on the frequency of pauses. Seasonal sightings along the coastal stretch may include dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, and ospreys.
This path sets off at Little Armstrong Bay, wends through Catherine and City of York Bay beaches, advances to Ricey Beach, and concludes at Narrow Neck, a locale celebrated for its serene beach atmosphere.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding Adventures
The tranquil waters encircling Rottnest Island are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), which allows explorers to sightsee around the island while enjoying a solid core workout.
SUP gear can be rented from Pedal and Flipper for AUD 73 for the first day, with a further AUD 24 fee for continued hire.
The shores near Thomson Bay are touted as the prime locations for SUP on Rottnest, where the convenience of proximity means less hassle in transporting your board far by bicycle. The bay’s waters are typically calm and offer natural protection from the elements.
Pinky Beach, Ricey Beach, and Little Salmon Bay are three favoured paddleboarding destinations. Furthermore, Pinky Beach presents an exquisite vantage point to witness the sun dipping behind Bathurst Lighthouse, painting a picturesque sunset scene.
Wardan Nara Bidi
Spanning 10 kilometres (6 miles), the Wardan Nara Bidi path is an excursion typically lasting half a day.
Commencing with a gentle climb at Parker Point, the trail presents enchanting views. A pause at Little Salmon Bay invites a dip or some snorkelling time. Progressing inland, the path leads to Oliver Hill, revealing facets of the island’s wartime past, with options to participate in a guided exploration.
The trek passes by the Wadjemup Lighthouse and culminates at Narrow Neck, offering a tranquil beach setting for relaxation and rejuvenation post-hike.
Wadjemup Lighthouse
Perched at the island’s summit, the Wadjemup Lighthouse dominates the landscape, providing expansive views over Rottnest and even the distant mainland.
Erected initially by Aboriginal prisoners between 1839 and 1849, the lighthouse was rebuilt in 1896, preserving just the limestone foundation of the initial edifice. It also received extensive updates in 2022.
Climbing the 155 steps to the top demands some exertion, but the panoramic vista from the apex is a just reward, rivalling the views from a skydive or plane tour.
Play golf
Golf enthusiasts will find the island a serene place to hone their skills. The golf course presents an 18-hole challenge amidst a tranquil and attractive setting.
The golf club maintains a welcoming and casual atmosphere. Equipment can be hired directly on-site, or their personnel can arrange to collect your golf gear from the ferry dock.
Open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the Rottnest Golf Course charges AUD 45 for adult access to the 18-hole experience or AUD 25 for those under 16. Hiring clubs costs AUD 15, while a cart will set you back AUD 40.
Discover the Wadjemup Museum
The Wadjemup Museum invites those on Rottnest Island to switch from physical pursuits to a historical voyage. The museum also exhibits a remarkable array of artworks.
Entrance to the museum is complimentary, though contributions are welcomed. A typical visit lasts around 20 minutes, though guests may choose to extend their stay. Museum volunteers are on hand to respond to inquiries about the museum’s exhibits or to suggest other attractions on Rottnest Island.
The Wadjemup Museum is accessible every day from 10 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.
Explore the Oliver Hill Train and Tunnels on Rottnest Island
For enthusiasts of wartime history, a journey on this vintage train and exploration of the tunnels is strongly advised. The tramway ride provides a tour of notable sites and narrated histories that animate the island’s storied past.
Additionally, tourists can delve into the Oliver Hill Gun and Tunnel Fortifications, home to artillery placements and an intricate underground tunnel system. This excursion shows the island’s pivotal contribution to Australia’s World War II defence initiatives.
FAQ
Why is Rottnest Island famous?
Can you take selfies with quokkas?
What are the best activities to do on Rottnest Island?
Is there cultural and historical significance on Rottnest Island?
How can you get around the island?
Are there good food and drink options on Rottnest Island?
Articles about Great Ocean Road
