19 kilometres off the coast of Perth sits Rottnest Island. A local that offers a beautiful combination of an island atmosphere, picturesque scenery and rich cultural heritage.
With 63 of the prettiest beaches you’re likely to see anywhere, 20 beautiful bays and many coral reefs and wrecks, Rottnest Island is a marine paradise. You can spend your days exploring some of the most spectacular swimming spots, diving and surf breaks in the world. Heading below the surface to explore the snorkel trails is also a must, with over 135 species of tropical fish and 25 species of coral to discover.
There’s plenty to experience out of the water too, from meeting the world-famous Quokka to exploring the excellent bike and walk trails that traverse the island.
Tours by bike, boat or Segway offer insightful experiences, from wildlife encounters to learning about the Aboriginal heritage of Wadjemup, which is the name for Rottnest Island in the Noongar language and means ‘place across the water where the spirits are’.
You can also discover the island’s military history and the important role it played in Australia’s World War II defence system as you explore underground tunnels, the lighthouse, Oliver Hill, and Bickley Battery.
As an A-Class Reserve and with almost no cars on the island, cycling is the best way to get around. Or, for a different pace, there’s a hop-on / hop-off bus service that regularly runs around the island, stopping at some of the more secluded beaches and surf breaks. Ferries depart regularly from Perth’s Barrack Street Jetty, Fremantle and Hillarys Boat Harbour, or there’s the option to get there by air with a seaplane, air taxi or helicopter.
Beaches & Bays
A trip to Rottnest Island will be an unforgettable holiday experience, with a choice of over 63 secluded beaches and 20 bays, you will be spoilt for choice. With so many unique bays and beaches, Rottnest Island offers a variety of water sports from swimming to diving, fishing and surfing. Choose from snorkeling at Little Salmon Bay or seeing spectacular ocean views from the West End. Or if you prefer to just relax, there are plenty of amazing spots to just sit and enjoy your surroundings. Some of our most famous beaches include The Basin, Little Parakeet Bay, Little Salmon Bay and Geordie Bay.
Unique Wildlife Encounters
As a Class A Reserve, Rottnest Island preserves and protects its natural beauty; spectacular flora, abundant marine life and wildlife and many unique species. With a variety of nature-based activities from free guided walking tours to dive charters, Rottnest offers plenty of opportunities to experience more nature. Rottnest Island's famous marsupial, the Quokka, can be seen around the Island particularly in the mid to late afternoon. However, for more information take a free guided walking tour to learn more about the smiley little animal.
Diving & Snorkeling Rottnest Island
Dive beneath the surface at Rottnest to marvel at the wonders of the island’s underwater playgrounds.
Snorkeler's are spoiled for choice at Rottnest Island. The sparkling clear waters surrounding the island are home to a mesmerising wonderland of tropical fish, friendly rays, coral and even a shipwreck!
The diversity of marine life, clear water, reef caves and swim-throughs at Rottnest Island make it not only a spectacular diving destination but also one of the most fascinating to be found in such close proximity to a capital city.
Wadjemup Bidi
If walking is how you choose to enjoy Rottnest Island then enjoy Western Australia's famous Island along the Wadjemup Bidi. "Bidi" means "trail" or "track" in the language of the traditional owners of the Island. The trail is 45 kilometres long, divided into five sections, each boasting culturally and environmentally significant landmarks to interpret and experience, connecting Rottnest Island's beautiful natural features to its cultural history.
Surfing Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island has some of the best surfing conditions and most consistent breaks in Western Australia. Strickland Bay, Salmon Bay and Stark Bay are particularly popular breaks for surfers, bodyboarders and stand-up paddle boarders. In fact, Strickland Bay has been ranked in the top 50 breaks in the world. Rottnest also has various reef breaks on both sides of the Island including Radar Reef, Cathedral Rocks and Chicken Reef. Waves off Rottnest can often be two to three feet larger than those at Perth beaches. A guide to the Island's surf breaks is available for purchase from the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre.
Fishing on Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island is a very popular site for recreational fishing due to the abundant marine wildlife. The fish found in Rottnest waters can be classified into three categories: reef dwellers, seagrass inhabitants and migratory species.