An idyllic, relaxed lifestyle draws about half a million holiday-makers to Rottnest Island each year. The island, 11 kilometres long and 4.5 kilometres wide, lies in azure waters only 18 kilometres west of Perth, just a short ferry or plane ride from the mainland. Its crystal-clear bays and white, sandy beaches are perfect for a range of aquatic pleasures, while on land there are heritage sites and interesting flora and fauna – including the famous quokka – to discover. The island’s fishing and surfing are at their best during the cooler months. Day trips are popular, as are longer stays in the low-key accommodation. With no private cars permitted on the island, bicycles are the main mode of transport, although limited bus services operate and a light railway takes visitors to Oliver Hill, in the centre of the island, for spectacular views.
What you should visit:
Underwater Wonderland
The diversity of fish and coral species and the countless shipwrecks found around the island make Rottnest a favourite site for scuba divers and snorkellers. Dive charters and snorkelling tours are popular; if you prefer not to get wet, enjoy the underwater scenery aboard the glass-bottomed Underwater Explorer.
West End
The “West End” of Rottnest can be reached on an 11 km bike ride along a sealed road, or on a bus tour. There are stunning ocean views from Cape Vlamingh (where you may also spot a humpback whale in winter) and a 1 km heritage trail that affords sightings of wedge-tailed shearwaters, fairy terns, quokkas and bottlenose dolphins.
The Basin
An outer reef surrounds Rottnest, protecting the clear waters and creating calm conditions for family swimming. The Basin provides one of a number of beautiful sandy beaches on the eastern end of the island. It is within easy walking distance of Thomson Bay and has basic facilities.
Quokka Country
The quokka is a native marsupial found primarily on Rottnest. It is semi-nocturnal and furry and grows to the size of a hare. There are about 10 000 quokkas on the island. Find the interpretive signs about a kilometre south of Thomson Bay, just before Kingstown Barracks; if you don’t see a quokka here, then there are good viewing spots along the boardwalk at Garden Lake.
Take a look at other local tourist attractions across the Perth Region today!