Located just 30 minutes from Perth’s coast is the STUNNING Rottnest Island. I wanted to include this in my Things to Do portion of the Perth blog but this place is too amazing to not give it a full page. What’s great about this island is it’s very easy to get to so you can easily spend just the day there or make a weekend of it. The whole island is completely bike friendly and those turquoise blue bays are a dream.
I have stayed over night on the island and also have gone for just the day so really just depends on your preference and how much time you have. From biking to hiking and snorkeling, there’s so much to do on this little island that it’s the perfect little getaway.
How to Get There
The easiest and cheapest way to get to Rottnest is via ferry. There are 3 different ports to choose from: Fremantle, Perth CBD, and Hillary’s. Fremantle will be the closest and you’ll arrive to the island in about 25 minutes.
Check the link for more info.
Another way is by seaplane, the more pricey option. I have friends who did this and the views from the plane looked absolutely phenomenal so it could definitely be worth it if you are coming from outside of Perth and have the extra dough.
Accommodation
If you do plan to stay the night and explore more of the island there are many options available, from camping to beach lodges. Click the link for more info.
Things to Do
Hire a Bike
Right when you get off the ferry there is a spot right behind the pub you can rent bikes for the day. The ferry companies also provide some deals where you can rent bikes along with your ferry ticket and you can bring the bike on the ferry with you. The island is not too big so you could easily ride the island in a day or take your time and use the bikes to head to one of the many beaches and relax. There are hardly any vehicles on the island so the roads are open for the most part and you don’t have to worry about traffic.
Take a Quokka Selfie
Quokka’s are the cute, overly friendly rodents that are native to the island, hence the name. They are so damn cute and friendly that tourists started to take selfie’s with them and it became a huge trend, just google it. I definitely had my fair share of attempts and it’s a necessity when you come here.
Head to the Beach
There are so many different beaches to choose from on this island you will have a hard time deciding which. The island offers stunning bay views and plenty of sand to sit back and enjoy the rays. My advice is to grab a map and just explore!
Snorkeling
You won’t have to swim far to reach the coral in these waters so it makes snorkeling super easy. You can hire snorkel gear on the island or you can rent them prior through one of the ferry companies.
Lighthouse Tour
There are two lighthouses on the island. Bathurst Lighthouse does not offer tours, however it sits right on the bay so it’s a popular spot for photographers. About a 15 min bike ride from the center of town is the Wadjemup Lighthouse. The tours run about every half hour from 10a – 2:30p so if you are in the area feel free to check it out. When you reach the top it offers stunning panoramic views of the island and you learn a little history of the lighthouse too.
Food & Drink
Rottnest General Store
The perfect place for all of your needs and essentials. My recommendation is to grab food and snacks for a nice picnic on the beach for the day. You’ll need it after biking all day!
Hotel Rottnest
Great beachfront location that has it all for food and drink options. Perfect spot for lunch or sunset dinner and also family friendly.
*For more on Rottnest Island, check out the Rottnest Island website here. Enjoy!
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