What To Do On Rottnest Island? 22 Unmissable Activities (Besides Quokka Selfies)

Rottnest Island (aka “Rotto”) is a pocket-sized paradise at a quick ferry ride from Perth, Fremantle, or Hillarys Harbour.

It’s known for being home to the cheerful quokka, but did you know the island has over 60 incredible beaches? Most of them offer top-notch snorkelling with their abundant marine life.

There are also over 40 kilometres of stunning hiking trails, some of them taking you around the inland lakes (including a pink lake, like a small version of Hutt Lagoon!).

The best time to visit is in the shoulder seasons, as they give you the best balance between great weather and fewer crowds. But each season has its charm, which we’ll discuss later.

With 22 epic activities to choose from, you might wonder where to begin. But don’t worry – this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your trip.

From all the top activities, best dining spots, top places to stay, how to get there, and more!

22 Best things to do on Rottnest Island

Here are a few things everyone must do during a trip to Rottnest Island:

1) Take a selfie with the iconic quokkas

This is one of the quintessential Rottnest Island experiences!

Quokkas are the smiley-faced marsupials native to this island.

These adorable creatures are all around the island, so keep your eyes peeled to spot them. Especially during the early morning or late afternoon – that’s when they’re most active.

When interacting with quokkas, please keep in mind the following things:

• Do NOT touch them. This can harm them, spread disease, and even make mothers abandon their babies if they carry an unfamiliar scent.

• Do NOT feed them. Human food can make them sick.

• Always respect their space. Approach them slowly and let them come to you, not the other way around.

• Flash photography can harm their sensitive eyes, so turn off your flash beforehand.

2) Swim at The Basin

The Basin is one of the most popular beaches on the island and it’s just a short bike ride from the main settlement.

Its crystal-clear shallow waters and natural rock pools make it a favourite among families with small kids and anyone wanting to relax.

This beach is also a prime spot for snorkelling, as there are lots of marine life around. There are also grassy areas for picnicking, so bring a blanket and enjoy a relaxing day by the sea!

3) Snorkel at Pinky Beach

Pinky Beach is another epic spot for snorkelling, also at walking distance from the settlement.

There are heaps of marine life here, including colourful fish, stunning corals, and sometimes even small rays and octopuses.

The best time to snorkel here is during the warmer months (November to March) when the water is clear and calm.

Plus, it’s next to the Bathurst Lighthouse, one of the best sunset spots on the island!

🤩 Get up close with marine life in Rottnest Island with a guided snorkel tour that includes all gear and expert tips from local guides: Rottnest Island Guided Snorkel Boat Experience

4) Dive at Parker Point

Parker Point is on the southern coast of the island, 5 kilometres from the main settlement.

It’s a marine sanctuary zone, which has allowed the local marine life to grow and thrive. This makes it an epic hotspot for snorkelling and diving!

There are even some underwater trails marked by buoys, which guide you through the best snorkelling spots.

5) Check out Little Salmon Bay

This is one of the most popular Rottnest Island beaches and it’s on the southern side.

It’s known for its clear, calm waters and abundant marine life, so it’s another must-visit spot – the sheltered bay provides excellent underwater visibility!

But it can get crowded at times. Keep this in mind when planning your visit.

6) Bike around the island

The island is car-free, so biking is one of the best ways to discover Rottnest Island!

There are over 22 kilometres of bike paths, all of them with stunning views. You can rent a bike from any of the rental shops on the island, with prices per day at around $20 for kids and $35 for adults.

When renting a bike, ask if there’s a “Bike and Bus Package” available. If you get tired, this allows you to return to the settlement by bus while leaving the bike at a bus stop to be picked up later.

🤩 You can easily explore Rottnest Island on an e-bike with local experts guiding you to the best spots and hidden gems in this bike tour: Rottnest Island ECO E Bike Tour

7) Visit Oliver Hill Guns and Tunnels

Oliver Hill is located in the central part of Rottnest Island.

This historical site is known for its World War II military remnants. The main attraction is a massive restored gun that protected Perth and Fremantle back in WW2.

There’s also a maze of underground tunnels, which played a crucial role in the island’s coastal defence system.

The panoramic views from the hilltop are also a sight to be seen. Plus, the area is great for hiking and photography.

Just remember to bring comfortable walking shoes and plenty of water!

🤩 Want a full-day adventure with historic sites and stunning views? Then this guided tour to Rottnest Island from Perth is for you: Rottnest Island Full-Day Trip With Guided Island Tour From Perth

8) Hike the Wadjemup Bidi trail

The Wadjemup Bidi trail is a network of scenic walking trails that span Rottnest Island, covering over 45 kilometres.

The trail system is divided into five sections, each offering different levels of difficulty and showcasing unique features of the island, like the northern beaches, the southern coast, historical sites, the salt lakes…

The best time to do this is during the cooler months, from April to October, to avoid the summer heat. There’s little to no shade on the island, keep that in mind if you want to try this during the hotter months.

More info about the five hiking trails here!

🤩 Get to explore Rottnest Island’s serene lakes and stunning bays on a guided hike led by local experts with this tour: Rottnest Island Lakes and Bays Guided Hike

9) Spot stingrays at Parakeet Bay

Parakeet Bay is on the northern side of the island.

This is a secluded spot with calm, shallow waters. It’s ideal for a day with the family, swimming and snorkelling around.

Plus, there’s a chance to see the friendly residents – stingrays! These graceful creatures can often be seen gliding through these waters in the morning, especially during the warmer months.

Now, swimming with stingrays is thrilling, but here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Stingrays aren’t aggressive but they’re venomous, so always respect their space and avoid touching them.

• Always shuffle your feet when walking or wading in the water, don’t take big strides. This lets the stingray know you’re nearby so it can swim away from you.

• When in the water, always inspect the bottom before resting your feet, as stingrays often hide under the sand.

Note: The non-venomous cousins of stingrays are manta rays, and one of the best places to swim with manta rays is a few hours north of Perth, in Coral Bay!

10) Watch the seals at Cathedral Rock

Cathedral Rock is a stunning natural formation located on the western side of Rottnest Island.

It’s the best spot for watching the colony of long-nosed fur seals that call this place home. You can see them sunbathing on the rocks or frolicking in the waters below the viewing platform.

11) Go off the beaten track at Fay’s Bay

Fay’s Bay is one of the lesser-known beaches and it’s on the northern side of the island.

This is a small cove known for its calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for a relaxing swim after biking around. It’s also great for snorkelling!

12) Go fishing at Ricey Beach

Ricey Beach is on the western side of Rottnest Island.

Apart from being a great spot for swimming and relaxing, it’s excellent for fishing. The reef and deep fishing holes offer opportunities to catch a variety of fish, including herring, tailor, salmon, and mulloway.

More info about fishing regulations on Rottnest Island here.

13) Surf at Strickland Bay

Strickland Bay is one of the best surfing spots in the world.

The waves here offer a real challenge because they’re often large and powerful, so they’re more suited to experienced surfers. The main break provides long rides and good barrels, particularly when the swell and winds align from the southwest.

The waves can get quite hefty, especially during winter. So it’s wise to check the surf forecast and talk to local surfers about the conditions if possible. There aren’t any lifeguards on duty, so surfing with a buddy is a good idea!

14) Check out the lighthouses

Rottnest Island is home to two historic lighthouses – Bathurst Lighthouse and Wadjemup Lighthouse.

Bathurst Lighthouse is on the northeast point. It offers stunning views of Pinky Beach and the surrounding areas. It’s easily accessible and provides a great spot for photography, especially at sunset.

Wadjemup Lighthouse is in the centre of the island. It’s the taller of the two and was Western Australia’s first stone lighthouse. It offers stunning panoramic views from the entire area and there are guided tours available.

15) Learn about the Aboriginal culture

Rottnest Island is known as Wadjemup to the Noongar people, the Traditional Owners.

They have deep ties to the island, as it used to be a meeting place for them, as well as a site for hunting and gathering for thousands of years!

Doing an Aboriginal tour is the best way to learn more about this ancient culture and make sure they keep thriving! Go with operators like Go Cultural, where your tour guides are Noongar.

16) Visit the Wadjemup Museum

The Wadjemup Museum is in the main settlement of Rottnest Island.

The exhibits cover everything – from the island’s geological formation to its indigenous heritage, colonial history, and diverse wildlife. It’s an excellent place to start your visit.

17) Go birdwatching at the salt lakes

Rottnest Island is also home to 12 inland salt lakes! The largest are Lake Baghdad and Lake Herschel, and there’s even a pink lake. They provide a stark contrast to the scenic beaches the island is known for.

Swimming isn’t recommended as they’re quite shallow – some of them even evaporate during summer. But they’re the perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts keen to spot local birds! There are walking and biking paths around them to help you explore the surroundings, too.

18) Skydive over Rottnest Island

If you’ve ever wanted to go skydiving, then doing it on Rottnest Island is a must.

The adrenaline rush of free-falling combined with the breathtaking views of the island’s coastline and turquoise waters makes for the most unforgettable moment.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Christopher Dinham and Rebecca Davies (@salt.and.charcoal)

These tours are a bit expensive but worth every penny! Plus, some providers even offer photos and videos so you can remember the experience.

🤩 Feel the adrenaline rush with a tandem skydive over Rottnest Island, taking in breathtaking views as you freefall in this tour: Rottnest Island Tandem Skydive

19) Book a segway tour

Exploring Rottnest Island on a segway is a fun and efficient way to see more of the island without tiring yourself out!

It’s a great option if you’re not keen on biking or walking long distances, or if you’d rather save your physical energy for other activities.

Plus, you can cover more ground in a shorter time, which is perfect for those with limited time on the island.

🤩 Take a tour guided by experts that brings you to the historic sites and stunning landscapes of Rottnest Island!: Rottnest Island Segway Tour: Fortress Adventure Tour

Awesome places to visit while in Perth

Visiting Rottnest Island is one of the many things to do while in Perth. So while you’re there, consider checking out these epic places, too:

20) The Pinnacles Desert

The Pinnacles are unique limestone formations in Nambung National Park, about a two-hour drive north of Perth.

These ancient formations rise dramatically from the desert, creating a surreal and otherworldly landscape. There are walking trails and a driving loop that allow you to explore the area at your own pace.

No wonder why it’s one of Western Australia’s most iconic attractions!

Keep reading: Tips for your visit to The Pinnacles, WA

21) Mandurah

Mandurah is famous for its stunning waterways and relaxed vibes, and it’s just an hour’s drive south of Perth.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Christopher Dinham and Rebecca Davies (@salt.and.charcoal)

It’s the ideal day trip destination from Perth, as there are many things to do – dolphin cruises, boating, kayaking, and looking for the Mandurah Giants.

22) Swan Valley

Swan Valley is a renowned wine region that’s a short 30-minute drive from Perth.

The area is home to dozens of wineries, breweries, and gourmet food producers, making it a foodie haven. It’s also an excellent place for outdoor activities such as hot-air ballooning, cycling, and hiking.

Just like Mandurah, Swan Valley is an epic place for a day trip from Perth. Just remember to designate a driver if you plan on wine tasting or consider joining a guided wine tour!

When is the best time to visit Rottnest Island?

The best time to visit Rottnest Island really depends on what you’re after. If you want good weather without the big crowds, aim for the shoulder seasons- April and May or September and October.

These months have mild weather, making it ideal for cycling around the island and enjoying the beaches. Plus, you won’t have to wrestle as much for a spot on the ferry or a good place to stay.

Summer (December to February) is peak season, so while you’ll enjoy hot, sunny days perfect for swimming and snorkelling, be ready for the island to be busier.

Accommodation can be scarce and pricier, and you might find yourself in line for a quokka selfie. If you don’t mind the hustle and are all for buzzing vibes, summer’s the time to go. Just remember to book your trip well in advance!

How to get to Rottnest Island?

You can get to Rottnest Island by ferry from:

• Perth – It takes about 90 minutes to reach the island.

• Fremantle – It’s the quickest and most popular option, you’ll be in Rotto in under 30 minutes.

• Hillarys Boat Harbour – North of Perth, it’s a 45-minute trip to the island.

Each location has its perks, so pick based on what’s easiest for you. Just make sure to check the schedules and book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season when ferries fill up fast.

Getting there by plane

You can get there by plane with Rottnest Air-Taxi. They offer private flights departing from Jandakot Airport, which is a 15-20 minute drive from Perth CBD.

They have several departure times during the day, which is extremely convenient. The only way to book tickets is via their website, here.

How to move around Rottnest Island?

You can’t take your car to Rottnest Island, but the island is quite small. It’s 11 kilometres long and 4.5 kilometres at its widest point, so you don’t need a car to get around.

Most people rent either a bike or a segway, hop on the island explorer bus, or walk. Whichever method of transportation you choose, know that all the biking and walking trails are in top condition, so you’ll be able to explore the scenic spots and hidden corners of the island.

How many days to stay in Rottnest Island?

Two to three days is the sweet spot. It gives you enough time to check out the beaches, go snorkelling, explore, get in some quality quokka selfies, and even do a boat tour – all without feeling rushed.

But if you’re pressed for time or just looking for a quick getaway, a day trip is absolutely worth it.

Ferries are frequent enough that you can head over in the morning, spend the whole day exploring, and catch an evening ferry back.

Related: How to enjoy Perth and its surroundings when travelling on a budget?

Best stays in Rottnest Island

• Best Hotel: Discovery Resorts – Rottnest Island offers eco-friendly, luxurious accommodation perfect for a relaxing getaway. It’s a 5 minute drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 6.

• Best for Families and Groups: Stay Rottnest provides stunning glamping options with beachfront access and modern amenities for a comfortable stay. It’s a 5 minute drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 6.

• Best Luxury: Samphire Rottnest has luxurious, modern rooms with stunning views and top-notch amenities. It’s a 2 minute drive from the town centre and sleeps up to 2.

There’s also a campground with unpowered sites, but you have to book WELL in advance. Bookings can be done up to 9 months in advance!

Where to eat in Rottnest Island?

When you’re ready to refuel after exploring Rottnest Island, you’ll find a variety of top-notch spots to satisfy your hunger. From fresh seafood to cosy cafes, here are some of the best places to eat on the island.

• Lane Cafe Rottnest ($$) offers fantastic coffee, delicious breakfast options, and friendly service, making it a great spot to start your day on Rottnest Island.
• Frankie’s on Rotto ($$) has fresh, tasty meals like pizza and fish ‘n’ chips in a welcoming atmosphere, with friendly service and reasonable prices. Enjoy happy hour cocktail or a relaxing afternoon tea after exploring the island.
• Isola Bar e Cibo ($$$) offers a delightful Italian dining experience with fresh seafood, perfectly cooked steaks, and crafted mocktails, all complemented by great views and warm, accommodating service.

🤩 This tour lets you enjoy gourmet seafood feast, stunning ocean views, and beautiful sunset skies while cruising around Rottnest Island: Luxe Island Seafood Cruise – Rottnest Island

Top Tips

Sun protection is an absolute must, as most areas of the island have little to no shade. Bring an umbrella, a hat, and sunscreen.

There’s also limited access to drinking water outside of the main settlement in Thomson Bay, so ALWAYS carry water with you.

Fire risk is something to be mindful of, especially during the warmer months. The island’s natural bushland can be quite dry, so do not light any fires or BBQs outside designated areas.

As for snakes, Rottnest Island does have a few, including the dugite, which is venomous. They tend to keep to themselves in bushy or rocky areas, but always watch where you walk and stick to the paths. If you see one, don’t panic – just back away slowly and give it space.

Jellyfish can also be a concern, particularly in the warmer waters during summer. Most are harmless, but there are a few, like the blue bottle, that can give you a painful sting.

Keep an eye out for jellyfish warnings at beaches, and if you’re unsure, ask a local or someone from the visitor centre.

This is why it’s always a good idea to carry some vinegar in your bag, just in case you or someone gets stung – it helps neutralize the sting.

Did you know?

Rottnest Island was used as an Aboriginal prison site and later as a military defence location, before becoming the tourist hotspot it is today.

By the 1900s, it was developed to accommodate tourists with the establishment of the Rottnest Island Board in 1917, which began promoting the island as a holiday resort.

Today it attracts over 500,000 visitors annually.

FAQs

The bottom line

Rottnest Island isn’t just another beach destination. It’s the perfect blend of adventure, history, stunning underwater landscapes, and unique wildlife.

Don’t miss the chance to snap a selfie with the island’s famous quokkas, or spend some time at the lookout watching the seals play.

Also, take a bit of time to learn about its history and Aboriginal heritage, as well as book one of the many Rottnest Island tours available.

There are so many things to do there, you can’t get bored. Whether you’re pedalling through scenic bike trails, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, hiking the scenic routes, or surfing some challenging breaks, your Rottnest Island trip will be unforgettable!