5 Must-Try Activities for Kids on Rottnest Island
Are you planning a family vacation to Rottnest Island and wondering how to keep the kids entertained? As the leading ferry operator to Rottnest Island, we know all the best activities for kids to enjoy on this picturesque island paradise. From snorkelling to wildlife spotting, bike riding to beach days, we've got you covered. In this blog post, we'll take you through five must-try activities for kids on Rottnest Island that are sure to create lasting memories for the whole family. So, sit back, relax, and let Rottnest Fast Ferries help you plan the ultimate family vacation.
Activity 1: Snorkelling
The crystal-clear waters around the island offer a perfect opportunity for kids to observe and explore the diverse marine life, including fish, coral and other sea creatures. Snorkelling is an activity that can be enjoyed by the whole family, allowing for a fun and memorable bonding experience. Rottnest Island is home to some of the best snorkelling spots in Western Australia, including the Parker Point Marine Trail, Henrietta Rocks, and Parakeet Bay, among others. These areas can be reached via bike or the Island Explorer hop-on, hop-off bus and offer calm, shallow waters that are safe for kids to snorkel in. Parents can rent snorkelling gear directly from us, ensuring that their kids have the necessary equipment for a successful snorkelling experience.
It's essential to note that safety is crucial when snorkelling with kids. Parents should make sure their children are comfortable in the water, wear life jackets, and stay within the designated snorkelling areas. Parents should also educate their children about the importance of respecting the marine environment and its inhabitants, such as not touching the coral, fish or other marine life. By following these safety guidelines, snorkelling can be an enjoyable and enriching experience for kids on Rottnest Island.
Activity 2: Bike Riding
Rottnest Island is relatively small, with a total area of only 22 square kilometres, making it easy to explore by bike. As the island is a car-free paradise, this makes biking a safe and eco-friendly transportation option for families. With a vast network of well-maintained bike paths that cater to riders of all levels, from beginners to advanced. Riders can take in the breathtaking views of the island's stunning natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rugged cliffs. Biking on the island is also a great way to promote children's physical fitness and overall wellbeing, providing a fun and active way to explore the island's attractions.
Parents can rent bikes with Rottnest Fast Ferries, our custom-built bikes feature comfortable adjustable seats, rear rack, drink holder and a rubber belt chain. All bikes are unisex and feature 7-speed gears making for a smooth, enjoyable experience. Our provided cycling map has three local trails, designed for all fitness levels. Discover the beauty of Rottnest Island at your own pace.
Activity 3: Wildlife Spotting
The island is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the famous quokkas, which are only found on Rottnest Island. Children will love spotting these adorable marsupials and observing their unique behaviours, such as their friendly and curious nature. Wildlife spotting is a fun and educational way to teach children about the island's natural environment and biodiversity. Kids can learn about the different species of birds, reptiles, and mammals that inhabit the island and their importance to the ecosystem.
Rottnest Island has several designated wildlife viewing areas, such as the Basin, the salt lakes, and the West End boardwalk, where kids can spot a variety of wildlife in their natural habitats. Parents can also take their children on guided tours, such as the Grand Island and Bayseeker Island Tours, which include stops at some of the island's best wildlife viewing locations.
However, it's crucial to note that it's important to respect the wildlife on Rottnest Island and their natural habitats. Parents should educate their children on the importance of not feeding or touching the animals and keeping a safe distance to avoid disturbing them. By following these guidelines, wildlife spotting can be an enjoyable and educational experience for kids on Rottnest Island.
Activity 4: The Beach!
Who could forget about the beach? The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Western Australia, with crystal-clear waters, pristine white sand, and stunning natural scenery. Kids will love playing in the water, building sandcastles, and exploring the beach's natural features, such as rock pools and sand dunes. Going to the beach is a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the island's warm and sunny climate, providing a perfect opportunity for kids to soak up some vitamin D and fresh air.
Rottnest Island has a range of beaches that cater to different interests and preferences, such as family-friendly beaches like Geordie Bay and Thomson Bay, or more secluded and quiet beaches like Pinky Beach and Salmon Bay. The island's beaches are also safe for kids to swim in, with calm and shallow waters that are perfect for young children to splash around in.
Parents can also take advantage of the beach facilities on Rottnest Island, such as beach chairs, umbrellas, and shade shelters, to ensure that their children stay comfortable and protected from the sun. Additionally, parents can enjoy a variety of beach activities with their kids, such as snorkelling, paddleboarding, and kayaking, which can be rented from various locations around the island.
Activity 5: Historical Tour
With a rich and fascinating history that spans thousands of years, from its Indigenous roots to its colonial past as a prison for Aboriginal men and boys. Children can learn about the island's history through a variety of historical tours, which offer an interactive and educational experience that brings the island's past to life.
Historical tours provide an opportunity for children to learn about and engage with different cultures and perspectives, including the unique and rich culture of the Noongar people, who have a deep spiritual and cultural connection to the island. Kids can learn about the Noongar people's traditions, beliefs, and customs, as well as their relationship with the land and sea.
The historical tours on Rottnest Island are tailored to suit children of all ages, with a variety of interactive and engaging activities that cater to different interests and learning styles. Kids can participate in guided walks, museum visits, storytelling sessions, and more, providing an immersive and hands-on experience that makes learning fun and memorable.
Offering a unique and valuable opportunity for children to develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as they learn about the challenges and complexities of the island's history and culture. Parents can use historical tours as a starting point for important conversations with their children about empathy, respect, and cultural understanding.
Rottnest Island offers an array of must-try activities for kids of all ages. From snorkelling in the clear waters to spotting wildlife, riding bikes around the island, going to the beach and exploring the island's rich history, there is something for everyone. These activities provide an opportunity for children to connect with nature, learn about the island's unique history and culture and create unforgettable memories with their families.
Rottnest Fast Ferries provides a convenient and reliable way to get to the island, ensuring that families can spend more time enjoying the activities and less time worrying about their travel plans. With so much to see and do on Rottnest Island, it's easy to see why it's a favourite destination for families across Western Australia.
So why not pack your bags, hop on a ferry, and experience the best of Rottnest Island with your kids? Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation or a little bit of both, Rottnest Island is the perfect destination for an unforgettable family getaway.