Are you looking for a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city? Do you want to experience the beauty and charm of a natural island with a rich history and culture? Do you want to meet the world's happiest animal and take a selfie with it? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should definitely visit Rottnest Island in Western Australia.
Rottnest Island, or Rotto as the locals call it, is a stunning island located 19 km off the coast of Perth. It is a nature reserve and a popular holiday destination with over 500,000 visitors every year. It has 63 gorgeous beaches, 20 serene bays, a diverse marine life, and a friendly and photogenic marsupial called the quokka. It also has a fascinating Aboriginal and colonial history, as well as a variety of activities and attractions for all ages and interests.
In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about Rottnest Island, from how to get there and where to stay, to what to do and what to eat. We will also share some tips and tricks to make your trip more enjoyable and memorable. Whether you are a solo traveller, a couple, a family, or a group of friends, you will find something to love and appreciate on this amazing island.
Why Visit Rottnest Island
There are many reasons to visit Rottnest Island, but here are some of the most compelling ones:
Natural beauty: Rottnest Island is a paradise for nature lovers, as it boasts some of the most stunning scenery in Australia. You can enjoy the crystal-clear water, the white-sand beaches, the limestone cliffs, the salt lakes, and the wildflowers. You can also explore the island's unique flora and fauna, such as the quokkas, the seals, the dolphins, the whales, and the birds.
Wildlife encounters: Rottnest Island is home to the quokka, a friendly and curious marsupial that is endemic to the island. The quokka is often called the world's happiest animal, as it has a cute smile and a playful personality. You can easily spot them around the island, and they are not shy to pose for a selfie with you. You can also see other wildlife on the island, such as the Australian sea lions, the bottlenose dolphins, the humpback whales, and the ospreys.
Culture and history: Rottnest Island has a rich and diverse culture and history, from its Aboriginal origins to its colonial and military past. The island is known as Wadjemup in the local Noongar language, and it holds a special significance for the Aboriginal people of Western Australia. The island was also used as a prison, a military base, and a tourist attraction by the Europeans. You can learn more about the island's heritage by visiting the museums, the barracks, the lighthouses, and the tunnels, as well as joining the guided tours and the cultural events.
Activities and attractions: Rottnest Island has something for everyone, whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or fun. You can snorkel and dive in the coral reefs, cruise and sail in the ocean, bike and hike on the trails, skydive and segway on the land, jet ski and surf on the waves, and much more. You can also enjoy the island's amenities, such as the cafes, the restaurants, the pubs, the bakeries, and the markets.
How to Get to Rottnest Island
There are several ways to get to Rottnest Island, depending on your budget, time, and preference. Here are the main options:
Ferry:
The most common and convenient way to get to Rottnest Island is by ferry. There are three ferry operators that offer daily services from Perth, Fremantle, and Hillarys Boat Harbour. The ferry ride takes about 25 to 90 minutes, depending on the departure point and the weather conditions. The ferry tickets range from $50 to $100 per person, depending on the season and the operator. You can also book a package that includes the ferry, the bike hire, and the admission fee to the island. You can check the ferry schedules and prices on the official websites of the ferry operators: Rottnest Express, SeaLink Rottnest Island, and Rottnest Fast Ferries.
Boat:
If you have your own boat or yacht, you can also get to Rottnest Island by boat. There are 22 public moorings and 8 public jetties around the island, where you can anchor or berth your boat. You will need to pay a fee for using the moorings or the jetties, as well as the admission fee to the island. You can book the moorings or the jetties online or by phone, and you can pay the fees at the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre. You can find more information on the official website of the Rottnest Island Authority.
Air:
If you want to get to Rottnest Island in style, you can also get there by air. There are two air operators that offer scenic flights and skydiving from Perth and Jandakot. The flight takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and the skydiving takes about 45 minutes. The flight and the skydiving cost from $200 to $500 per person, depending on the operator and the package. You can also book a package that includes the flight, the bike hire, and the admission fee to the island. You can check the flight and the skydiving schedules and prices on the official websites of the air operators: Rottnest Air Taxi and Skydive Geronimo.
How to Get Around Rottnest Island
Once you get to Rottnest Island, you will need to get around the island to explore its attractions and activities. Here are the main options:
Bike:
The best way to get around Rottnest Island is by bike, as the island is a car-free zone and has many bike-friendly paths and trails. You can bring your own bike on the ferry or the boat, or you can hire one on the island. There are several bike hire facilities on the island, such as the Rottnest Island Pedal & Flipper, the Rottnest Express Bike Hire, and the SeaLink Rottnest Island Bike Hire. The bike hire costs from $15 to $30 per day, depending on the type and the size of the bike. You can also book a package that includes the ferry, the bike hire, and the admission fee to the island. You can find more information on the official websites of the bike hire facilities.
Bus:
Another way to get around Rottnest Island is by bus, as the island has a hop-on hop-off bus service that covers the main attractions and activities. The bus operates daily from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, and it has 19 stops around the island. The bus ticket costs $20 per person, and it is valid for the whole day. You can buy the bus ticket on the bus, at the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre, or online. You can also book a package that includes the ferry, the bus ticket, and the admission fee to the island. You can find more information on the official website of the Rottnest Island Bus Service.
Foot:
The last way to get around Rottnest Island is by foot, as the island has many walking trails and tracks that offer scenic views and wildlife encounters. You can walk around the island at your own pace and discover its hidden gems and secrets. You can also join the guided walks and tours that are offered by the Rottnest Island Authority, the Rottnest Voluntary Guides Association, and the Wadjemup Aboriginal Corporation. The guided walks and tours range from free to $50 per person, depending on the duration and the theme. You can book the guided walks and tours at the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre, or online. You can find more information on the official website of the Rottnest Island Walking Trails.
Where to Stay on Rottnest Island
If you want to stay overnight or longer on Rottnest Island, you will need to find a place to stay on the island. Here are the main options:
Hotels:
The most comfortable and luxurious way to stay on Rottnest Island is by staying at one of the hotels on the island. There are two hotels on the island, the Hotel Rottnest and the Karma Rottnest. The Hotel Rottnest is a beachfront hotel that offers modern rooms, suites, and bungalows, as well as a restaurant, a bar, and a pool. The Karma Rottnest is a heritage hotel that offers spacious rooms, apartments, and cottages, as well as a spa, a golf course, and a cinema. The hotel prices range from $200 to $500 per night, depending on the season and the type of accommodation. You can book the hotels online or by phone, and you can find more information on the official websites of the hotels.
Villas and cottages:
Another way to stay on Rottnest Island is by staying at one of the villas or cottages on the island. There are over 300 villas and cottages on the island, located in different areas and with different views and facilities. The villas and cottages can accommodate from 2 to 10 people, and they have kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, and bedrooms. The villa and cottage prices range from $100 to $400 per night, depending on the season and the type of accommodation. You can book the villas and cottages online or by phone, and you can find more information on the official website of the Rottnest Island Authority.
Glamping and camping:
The last way to stay on Rottnest Island is by staying at one of the glamping or camping sites on the island. There are two glamping and camping sites on the island, the Discovery Rottnest Island and the Rottnest Island Campground. The Discovery Rottnest Island is a luxury glamping site that offers eco-friendly tents with ensuite bathrooms, king beds, and outdoor decks. The Rottnest Island Campground is a budget camping site that offers powered and unpowered sites for tents and caravans, as well as shared facilities such as toilets, showers, and kitchens. The glamping and camping prices range from $50 to $300 per night, depending on the season and the type of accommodation. You can book the glamping and camping sites online or by phone, and you can find more information on the official websites of the glamping and camping sites.
What to Do on Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island has a lot to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. You can enjoy the island’s natural beauty, wildlife, culture, history, and activities. Here are some of the best things to do on Rottnest Island:
Beaches and bays:
Rottnest Island has 63 beaches and 20 bays, each with its own unique features and activities. You can swim, sunbathe, surf, fish, kayak, or paddle board on the pristine water. You can also relax, picnic, or barbecue on the soft sand. Some of the most popular beaches and bays on the island are The Basin, Pinky Beach, Salmon Bay, Little Parakeet Bay, and Geordie Bay.
Quokkas:
Rottnest Island is famous for its quokkas, a friendly and curious marsupial that is native to the island. The quokka is often called the world’s happiest animal, as it has a cute smile and a playful personality. You can easily spot them around the island, and they are not shy to pose for a selfie with you. You can also learn more about them by visiting the Rottnest Island Quokka Walk, a guided tour that takes you to the best quokka spots and tells you interesting facts and stories about them.
Snorkel and dive:
Rottnest Island has a diverse marine life and several snorkel and dive sites, including underwater caves and trails. You can snorkel and dive in the coral reefs, where you can see colourful fish, starfish, seahorses, octopus, and turtles. You can also snorkel and dive in the shipwrecks, where you can see historical artefacts, cannons, and anchors. Some of the most popular snorkel and dive sites on the island are Parker Point, Little Armstrong Bay, Kingston Reef, and The Shark Cave.
Cruise and sail:
Rottnest Island offers various cruise and sailing options, such as seafood cruises, sunset cruises, catamaran cruises, and snorkel tours. You can cruise and sail in the ocean, where you can enjoy the scenic views, the fresh breeze, and the delicious food and drinks. You can also cruise and sail in the bay, where you can see the wildlife, such as the seals, the dolphins, and the whales. Some of the most popular cruise and sailing operators on the island are Rottnest Cruises, Charter 1, and Starsand Yacht Charters.
Bike and hike:
Rottnest Island is a car-free zone, and the best way to explore it is by bike or on foot. There are many trails and paths to follow, as well as bike hire facilities. You can bike and hike around the island, where you can see the nature, the wildlife, the culture, and the history. You can also bike and hike to the lookout points, where you can enjoy the panoramic views of the island and the ocean. Some of the most popular bike and hike trails on the island are the Wadjemup Bidi, the Rottnest Island Railway Heritage Trail, and the Oliver Hill Gun and Tunnel Tour.
Adventure and thrill:
Rottnest Island has many adventure and thrill activities, such as skydiving, segway tours, jet skiing, and surfing. You can skydive from 15,000 feet, where you can experience the adrenaline rush and the breathtaking views of the island and the ocean. You can also segway around the island, where you can have fun and learn about the island’s history and ecology. You can also jet ski and surf on the waves, where you can have fun and challenge yourself. Some of the most popular adventure and thrill operators on the island are Skydive Geronimo, Segway Tours WA, and Rottnest Island Jet Ski Hire.
Culture and history:
Rottnest Island has a rich and diverse culture and history, from its Aboriginal origins to its colonial and military past. You can learn more about the island’s heritage by visiting the museums, the barracks, the lighthouses, and the tunnels, as well as joining the guided tours and the cultural events. You can also experience the island’s culture and history by participating in the Quod Project, a community-led initiative that aims to transform the former prison into a healing and reconciliation space. Some of the most popular culture and history attractions on the island are the Rottnest Island Museum, the Kingstown Barracks, and the Wadjemup Lighthouse.
What to Eat on Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island has a variety of food and drink options, from cafes and restaurants to pubs and bakeries. You can enjoy the island’s cuisine, which is influenced by the local produce, the seafood, and the multicultural influences. You can also enjoy the island’s beverages, which include coffee, tea, juice, beer, wine, and spirits. Here are some of the best places to eat and drink on Rottnest Island:
Cafes:
Rottnest Island has many cafes, where you can have a breakfast, a brunch, a lunch, or a snack. You can choose from a range of dishes, such as eggs, pancakes, sandwiches, salads, burgers, and pies. You can also choose from a range of drinks, such as coffee, tea, juice, smoothies, and milkshakes. Some of the most popular cafes on the island are The Lane, Dome, and Geordie’s Cafe and Art Gallery.
Restaurants:
Rottnest Island has many restaurants, where you can have a lunch or a dinner. You can choose from a range of cuisines, such as Australian, Asian, Italian, and Indian. You can also choose from a range of dishes, such as seafood, pasta, pizza, curry, and steak. You can also choose from a range of drinks, such as wine, beer, cocktails, and soft drinks. Some of the most popular restaurants on the island are Thomsons Rottnest, Riva Restaurant, and Frankie’s on Rotto.
Pubs:
Rottnest Island has two pubs, where you can have a drink, a meal, or a party. You can choose from a range of drinks, such as beer, cider, wine, spirits, and cocktails. You can also choose from a range of dishes, such as fish and chips, burgers, nachos, and chicken wings. You can also enjoy the live music, the sports, and the events. The two pubs on the island are Hotel Rottnest Bar and Bistro and The Rottnest Island Hotel.
Bakeries:
Rottnest Island has two bakeries, where you can have a sweet treat, a pastry, or a bread. You can choose from a range of baked goods, such as cakes, muffins, croissants, pies, and quokka cookies. You can also choose from a range of drinks, such as coffee, tea, juice, and milk. The two bakeries on the island are The Rottnest Bakery and The Lane Bakery.
What to Pack for Rottnest Island
If you are planning to visit Rottnest Island, you will need to pack some essentials for your trip. Here are some of the things you should pack for Rottnest Island:
Clothes: You should pack clothes that are suitable for the weather and the activities on the island. You should pack light and comfortable clothes, such as shorts, t-shirts, dresses, and skirts. You should also pack warm and waterproof clothes, such as jackets, sweaters, and raincoats. You should also pack swimwear, such as swimsuits, rash vests, and board shorts.
Shoes: You should pack shoes that are suitable for the terrain and the activities on the island. You should pack sturdy and comfortable shoes, such as sneakers, sandals, or flip flops. You should also pack water shoes, such as aqua shoes, or reef shoes, if you plan to snorkel or dive in the ocean.
Accessories: You should pack accessories that are useful and protective for your trip. You should pack sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water bottle, and insect repellent, to protect yourself from the sun, the heat, the dehydration, and the bugs. You should also pack camera, charger, power bank, and binoculars, to capture and enjoy the beauty and the wildlife of the island.
Snacks: You should pack snacks that are nutritious and energizing for your trip. You should pack snacks that are easy to carry and eat, such as nuts, dried fruits, granola bars, and chocolate. You should also pack snacks that are local and special, such as quokka cookies, which are oatmeal cookies shaped like quokkas. You can buy them at the bakeries on the island, or make them yourself with the recipe on the Rottnest Island website.
Rottnest Island is a wonderful place to visit, whether you are looking for a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a longer holiday. You can experience the island’s natural beauty, wildlife, culture, history, and activities. You can also enjoy the island’s food and drink, and stay at one of the island’s accommodation options. Whether you are a solo traveller, a couple, a family, or a group of friends, you will find something to love and appreciate on this amazing island.
We hope that this guide has helped you plan your trip to Rottnest Island, and that you have a great time on the island. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to contact us. We would love to hear from you. Thank you for choosing Tripoto, and happy travels!
