Exploring the Top Things to Do on Rottnest Island
Nestled a swift ferry ride away from the bustling city of Perth lies a paradisiacal gem awaiting exploration – Rottnest Island. A haven of natural beauty and diverse adventures, Rottnest stands as a testament to Western Australia's coastal wonders. Fasten your seatbelt—well, life vest—and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime on Rottnest Island with Rottnest Fast Ferries!
Snorkelling: Discovering Underwater Wonders
Rottnest Island stands as a snorkeller's paradise, boasting an array of picturesque and diverse underwater landscapes that cater to both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
Henrietta Rocks – Hop off at Stop #3 on the Island Explorer
One of the island's prized snorkelling spots is Henrietta Rocks. Beyond its captivating natural beauty, this site is renowned for a shipwreck sight, offering a unique glimpse into history.
Little Salmon Bay – Hop off at Stop #6 on the Island Explorer
This location offers an extraordinary snorkelling experience due to its innovative underwater plaques, creating a designated snorkel trail. As you glide through the waters, these plaques guide your exploration, providing insight into the diverse marine life and underwater ecosystem.
The Basin – Walking distance from main settlement or Geordie Bay
Arguably the most popular snorkelling spot, The Basin is revered for its ease of access and family-friendly features. Its shallow waters make it an ideal destination for families with little kids, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all to explore. Moreover, the presence of a surf life-saving post ensures additional peace of mind for concerned parents.
Swimming: Basking in Tranquil Waters
Rottnest Island stands out as a beloved swimming destination. The combined impact of limited development, stringent conservation efforts, protected marine zones and responsible tourism practices all contribute to the preservation of Rottnest Island's pristine beaches.
Parker Point – 5km ride or hop off at stop #5 on the Island Explorer
Renowned for its stunning beauty and unique features, Parker Point is a gem among the island's swimming spots. The bay is designated as a sanctuary zone, prohibiting fishing activities, ensuring a tranquil environment for swimmers and marine life. Accessible via a staircase, Parker Point provides easy entry to its serene waters
Stark Bay (Stop #13) and Ricey Bay (Stop #15)
These bays are favoured for their wide beaches, presenting an inviting setting for beachgoers. Beyond swimming, these locations offer a multifaceted experience by catering to activities such as snorkelling, surfing, and fishing, appealing to a diverse range of beach enthusiasts. The presence of a staircase facilitates easy access to the beaches
Historical Things to Do: Immersing in the Island's Heritage
Rottnest Island holds a rich historical tapestry that spans centuries, with significant cultural landmarks and historical activities that invite visitors to explore its past.
Oliver Hill
Rottnest Island's military history is vividly represented through the Oliver Hill Lookout. This site holds immense historical importance, serving as a relic of World War II. Visitors can delve into the island's military past, exploring the intricate tunnels, bunkers and the impressive gun emplacements that once safeguarded Western Australia's coastline. Learn more about this historical location on the Grand Island Tour or Train & Tunnel Tour.
Wadjemup Lighthouse – Hop off at Stop #8
The Wadjemup Lighthouse, a significant landmark on Rottnest Island, stands as a beacon of maritime history and cultural heritage, offering captivating historical insights. Visitors to Rottnest Island can explore the Wadjemup Lighthouse, taking guided tours that offer historical insights and tales of its operational history.
Wadjemup Museum – Main settlement
The museum is a significant repository of historical insights and artifacts, providing visitors with a deep understanding of the island's diverse heritage. The museum offers interactive displays, guided tours and informative panels that cater to a wide audience, from history enthusiasts to families and school groups.
The Quokka Selfie - Everywhere!
The adorable and iconic quokkas play a significant role in Rottnest Island's cultural identity. These friendly marsupials have become synonymous with the island, captivating visitors with their photogenic charm. Engaging with the quokkas and capturing a "quokka selfie" has become a popular and heartwarming activity for visitors, contributing to the island's cultural fabric and sense of community.
Things to Do: Walking Distance from The Settlement (Thomsons Bay)
The settlement offers a diverse range of experiences on Rottnest Island. Whether engaging in family-friendly activities, exploring beautiful beaches, observing unique natural phenomena or enjoying the thrill of watching skydivers, visitors have a multitude of opportunities for an enjoyable and memorable stay on the island.
Mini Golf/Arcade (Activities for Kids)
Within a short walking distance from the main settlement, you'll find an engaging mini-golf course and arcade. Perfect for families and kids, this recreational spot offers a range of fun activities. Mini golf provides an entertaining way to spend time while the arcade offers additional games and amusements, ensuring a delightful experience for the younger visitors.
Pinky Beach and Bathurst Lighthouse Lookout
A leisurely stroll leads to Pinky Beach, a serene and picturesque location. This idyllic beach, with its soft sand and calm waters, is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Not far from Pinky Beach stands the iconic Bathurst Lighthouse. A short hike to the lighthouse lookout rewards visitors with stunning panoramic views of the island and its surrounding waters, offering a breathtaking perspective of the landscape.
Bickley Bay:
Bickley Bay, a short walk away, offers a tranquil setting for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this beach. Depending on the day's conditions, skydivers often land in the vicinity, creating a thrilling spectacle against the island's stunning backdrop.
Rottnest Island stands as an extraordinary tapestry of natural wonders, historical richness and captivating adventures. Our journey through the unmissable experiences on this idyllic island has unveiled a paradise that truly captivates the soul. We encourage all travellers to embark on their own adventure to Rottnest Island, embracing the myriad of unmissable experiences and relishing the beauty that awaits.
With Rottnest Fast Ferries as your gateway, set sail towards a world where adventure, tranquillity, and natural marvels merge to create an unforgettable escape