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Rottnest Island tours

Rottnest Fast Ferries Round-Trip Tickets: Rottnest Island to/from Perth or Fremantle with Optional Bike Hire

• A 30-min ferry ride from Perth or Fremantle and you arrive in paradise: Rottnest Island. Enjoy a day off the coast of Western Australia with return ferry transfers.
• No need to be a morning person! The ferry departs on a flexible schedule, plus ditch the baggage claim – store your luggage on the ferry and chill.
• The Rottnest ferry isn't just a ride, it's a wildlife adventure! Keep your eyes peeled for New Zealand's fur seals, seabirds, humpback whales, and dolphins!
• Feel the wind on your face and discover more corners of the island than you can on foot. Upgrade your ticket for a bike and cycle your way around the island.
• Channel your inner Indiana Jones and explore hidden coves. Explore shipwreck sites and say hi to furry quokkas that have been selfie-snapped with the likes of Margot Robbie.
• Round-trip ferry transfers to Perth/Fremantle
• Entry to Rottnest Express boat
• Luggage storage
• Entry to Rottnest Island
• Bike hire (optional)
• Tip: You may spot long-nosed fur seals basking and playing in the water from the viewing platforms at Cathedral Rocks and Cape Vlamingh.
• Facilities: Luggage storage, pram/stroller accessible
• Guide dogs are allowed onboard. However, as Rottnest Island is an A-Class reserve you should contact the rangers there for further advice on service dog allowance.
• Single pieces of luggage up to 22kg and no larger than 800mm x 500mm x 400mm can be stowed in the vessels’ luggage crates.
• Single carry-on items must be no larger than 600mm x 400mm x 300mm.
• 1 piece of luggage is permitted per person. Additional luggage will incur an excess luggage charge.
• No ‘piggy-backing’ of luggage is permitted (eg: attaching a sleeping bag to a suitcase).
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Guided Tour of Rottnest Island with Round-Trip Ferry Transfer

• Craving a tour packed with sunshine, scenery, and the cutest marsupials on earth? Go for the Rottnest Island guided trip, complete with ferry transfers from Perth or Fremantle.
• Hop on a comfy, AC bus for a 90-min tour while your guide regales you with the tales of Rottnest's indigenous history, military past, and unique flora and fauna.
• As you circle the island, admire views of the Wadjemup Lighthouse. Breathe in the fresh ocean air and soak up the vastness of the Indian Ocean.
• Stop by West End and take a quick stroll down the boardwalk to meet adorable quokkas with their permanent grins, offering a chance for a once-in-a-lifetime photo.
• 90-minute guided island tour
• Round-trip ferry transfer to Perth/Fermentle
• English-speaking guide
• Snorkel equipment
• Bike rental
• Tip: Make sure to bring your swimsuit and dive into the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean.
• Lockers are available for hire at the back of the Visitor Centre should you need to store luggage or bags during your visit.
• This experience is pram/stroller accessible.

Full-Day Tour of Rottnest Island with Bicycle Hire from Perth

• A short ferry ride along the Swan River from Perth and you arrive in paradise: Rottnest Island. Gear up for a full-day cycling tour exploring this idyllic escape!
• Pack a nice lunch, then choose from the incredible bays and beaches. Your other task for the day is to spot a quokka— a small marsupial only found on the island.
• Pedal towards the rugged West End and explore the beauty of Rottnest with a scenic walk along the boardwalk. Get ready for some insane coastal panoramas!
• Upgrade your ticket for a snorkel experience and explore one of Western Australia's best coral reefs with all the equipment you need.
• Spot turtles, encounter pods of dolphins, and with a bit of luck, witness humpback whales during their annual migration.
• Day tour of Rottnest Island
• Self-guided tour
• Return ferry transfers to Rottnest Island from Perth
• Bike hire with helmet and security lock
• Snorkel equipment (optional)
• Tip: If you like a touch of mystery with your underwater explorations, grab your mask, snorkel, and head straight to Henrietta Rocks.
• Guests under the age of 4 are restricted from participating in this experience.
• Bikes with baby seats can be requested and are subject to availability.
• Children's bikes are suitable for children between the ages of 4 to 7. Children aged 7 or older can usually use adult-sized bikes.

• Rottnest Island Guided Segway Tour with Round-Trip Ferry Transfer
• Glide through 7000-year-old Rottnest Island on a Segway tour with a knowledgeable local guide and convenient return ferry transfers.
• Discover the island's military history at Bickley Battery and Jubilee Lookout, unveiling Rottnest's strategic role in World War II.
• Soak in the beauty of this nature reserve with its pristine beaches and bays, boasting vibrant marine life and stunning landscapes.
• Make your tour unforgettable by capturing an endearing quokka selfie, and explore other photo spots to snap up lifelong memories.
• Choose your ferry departure from Fremantle or Perth for a smooth and convenient island getaway.
• Rottnest Island Segway Tour
• Local guide
• Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth (optional)
• Round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle (optional)
• Protective helmets
• Food and drinks

From Fremantle

• 9:00am: Ferry departs B Shed, Fremantle
• 9:30am: Arrive at Rottnest Island and make your way to The Settlement (Behind Dome Cafe)
• 12:30pm: 1.5-hour Fortress Adventure Segway commences from The Settlement.
• 2:00pm: Tour concludes back at The Settlement - Free time
• 4:00pm: Ferry departs Rottnest Island
• 4:30pm: Ferry arrives at B Shed, Fremantle
• 8:30am: Ferry departs Pier 3, Barrack Street Jetty
• 10:00am: Arrive at Rottnest Island and make your way to The Settlement (Behind Dome Cafe)
• 4:15pm: Ferry departs Rottnest Island
• Tip: Maintain a respectful distance with quokkas, let them approach you, and resist the urge to feed them.
• Children under 12 and guests weighing below 45kg are not permitted to participate in this tour.
• This tour is not recommended for pregnant women.
• The tour is not recommended for people with mobility impairments.
• Pets are not allowed on this tour.
• Guests can bring one carry-on item on board per person.

• Rottnest Island Day Tour with Adventure Boat Tour
• A quick ferry ride from Perth or Fremantle whisks you off to Rottnest Island, a paradise waiting to be explored. With the return ferry included, enjoy a day on the Western Australian coast.
• On your scenic cruise down the Swan River from Perth, listen to onboard commentary about the local history, hidden gems, and fascinating attractions.
• Your ticket includes a 90-minute Eco Express boat tour to the island’s wild side where you can see the rugged coastline and see New Zealand Fur Seal Colony out at Cathedral Rocks.
• Unwind as the turquoise waters of Basin and Parakeet Bay lull you into serenity and take a broadwalk to meet the island's absolutely cuddly residents–quokkas.
• Keep your eyes peeled for turtles, playful pods of dolphins, and, if you're lucky, majestic humpback whales on their annual migration.
• Return ferry transfers to Fremantle/Perth
• Rottnest Island admission fee
• 90-min Eco Express boat tour
• Guided tour
• Hotel drop-off
• Tip: Pack a delicious picnic and find a scenic spot overlooking the ocean or nestled among the island's picturesque landscapes.
• Guests under 4 are restricted from participating in this experience.
• Guests under 4 cannot participate in this experience.

Top things to do in Perth

Weekend getaway at Rottnest Island

An ancient island surrounded by turquoise waters, Rottnest Island is a tiny strip of land that offers many adventures! Sign up for tours on boats, segways, and bicycles to explore the island’s native wildlife, unspoiled beaches, historic streets, and more. We unpack this unique Australian getaway, sharing everything you need to know before you book your Rottnest Island tour! 

Why visit Rottnest Island?

• Sun and sand: Made up of sandy beaches and rocky bays that open out to turquoise and deep blue waters, Rottenest Island is perfect for a day of swimming and sunning. 
• Adventure island: Rottnest Island tours offer you fun ways to explore the island. There are segway, boat and bicycle tours. You can also spend time here snorkelling, fishing, diving and hiking. 
• Quokka encounters: Roaming freely all around the island, the quokkas are small, marsupials that make for an adorable sight. 
• History on segways: Discover the 7000-year history, Aboriginal ties and World War II structures of the island as you zip around on segways. 
• Catch a shipwreck: Over 13 ships have met an unfortunate demise around Rottenest Island and some like the Shark, near Henrietta Rocks, and Uribes, near Philip Point, are easily accessible.               
• Salt lakes: Discover 12 salt lakes that are even saltier than the sea and feature rich bird and plant life.

What Rottnest Island tour should I pick?

If you’re with kids

Go For: Fast ferry tickets Duration: Flexible Transfers: Yes Guide: No 

• Offering flexible timings, the fast ferry will give you quick access to Rottnest Island so you can make the most of your trip. 
• Get a comfortable experience with pick-ups from hotels in Perth and Fremantle. 

Recommended tours: 

• Rottnest Fast Ferries Round-Trip Tickets: Rottnest Island to/from Perth or Fremantle with optional Bike Hire

If you are an adventurer

Go For: Adventure boat tour Duration: Full-day tour Transfers: Yes Guide: No

• Cycle the length and breadth of the historical island discovering sandy beaches, salt lakes, and shipwrecks. 
• If you prefer to roam the waters instead, sign up for the Adventure Boat Tour - a 90-minute ride that takes you through the gorgeous waters around the island. 
• Full Day Tour of Rottnest Island with Bicycle Hire from Perth

If you are a history buff

Go For: Guided tours Duration: Full-day tour Transfers: Yes Guide: Yes

• Walk through the streets of the island learning about the history of the place, admiring its abundant natural beauty and meeting up with quokkas. 
• If you want an extra dose of thrill, you can also sign up for tours on segways. 
• Guided Tour of Rottnest Island with Round-trip Ferry Transfer

Cancellation policy 

• Most Rottnest Island tours allow you to cancel the tickets 24 hours before the start of the tour. Check your tickets while booking for accurate cancellation information.

Rottnest Island highlights

Segway tours

Strap on your helmet,  hop on your segway and glide past sand dunes and historic streets to explore Rottnest. On these unique, eco-friendly adventures, stop by Thompson Bay thronged by beach bums, grab a pint at one of the island’s OG bars and swing by military landmarks like Bickley Battery and Jubliee Lookout that were part of the World War II efforts.

Hiking trails

Leave the sunny beaches behind and take any of the five marked-out hiking trails on the 45 kilometres of roads on the island. Choose from a variety of trails like Gabbi Karniny Bidi that introduces you to the intrinsic lake system or the short Karlinyah Bidi that takes you to the northern coasts. Ngank Wen Bidi that loops through Narrow Neck and Ngank Yira Bidi talks about the history of the island, including its naval gun bases.

Rottnest’s gorgeous waters lapping against jagged, limestone bays and fine-sand beaches bring in swimmers, snorkelers and divers. Explore the popular Basin, Geordie Bay and Pinky Beach. For a more serene outing, head to Parakee Beach, Fish Hook Bay and Mary Cove. The waters are home to 400 different species of fish, green turtles, and western rock lobsters that make their way through piles of seaweed and coral.

Twelve, large salt lakes dot the north-eastern bit of Rottnest Island. Even though they are highly saline, the lakes boast unique plant life and a wetland ecosystem that nurtures life. Walk on cleverly constructed boardwalks that give you the feeling like you are walking on water. In summer, many of these lakes transform into pink and white salt pans that are worth stopping by especially if you have a weakness for spectacular sunsets.

As if a standing testament to its rich naval history, the coasts of Rottnest Island are populated with shipwrecks that can be easily explored by snorkelers. At Henrietta Rocks, swim along with tiny schools of fish to make your way to the seaweed-laden ‘Shark’ shipwreck that is a short swim from the shore. Another easily accessible wreck site is Uribes that stands close to the beachfront at Philip Point.

A protected wildlife sanctuary, Wadjemup - the Aboriginal name for Rottnest Island - is home to diverse creatures including the quokkas, bats, and migratory birds. Chief among these are the quokkas - that look like smaller versions of kangaroos - and populate the island. At Rottnest, these creatures roam freely and you can get close enough to get an adorable picture. However, touching or petting the animals can attract huge fines so steer clear!

Navigating Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island is a 19 km island that is just off the coast of Perth. It is surrounded by the Indian Ocean. There are many ways to get to the island from Perth, including ferry, air taxis, and boats.

Find it on Maps

Closest ferry stop: Rottnest Island

• Perth: Barrack Street Jetty (90 minutes to Rottnest Island)
• Fremantle: Victoria Quay (25 minutes to Rottnest Island) 
• North Fremantle: Rous Head (25 minutes)
• Hillarys Boat Harbour: (45 minutes)

To get the most value for your money, we recommend you sign up for a Rottnest Island tour that includes ferry rides. 

For those of you looking to arrive in style, there are several flight options to Rottnest Island.

Rottnest Air-Taxi: This is a 10-minute flight available every day from Perth. 

Corsaire Aviation: Take a thrilling helicopter ride that gives you the chance to look out at Rottnest Island’s spectacular landscape from above. Daily departures from Jandakot Airport, Crown Towers, Fremantle and Hillarys Boat Harbour are available. 

Air Charters West: These luxurious private charters take off from Bunbury Airport. The short, 30-minute flight includes a champagne breakfast. 

Swan River Seaplanes: These are seasonal sightseeing planes available from Perth. The 20-minute flights offer sweeping views of Perth and the expansive sea before landing in Rottnest Island.

Private Boats are allowed to travel to Rottnest Island and dock at several points. However, they do attract larger fees. Do check out the Rottnest Island Authority website for detailed information. 

Rottnest Island is primarily a car-free island. There are few asphalt roads and connectivity on the island is mostly on foot, segways, bikes and buses. There is no road that leads directly to the island either, so you will be unable to access Rottnest Island by car.

Since Rottnest Island is car-free, visitors rely on other modes of transport to make their way around the island. You can pick from:

Bikes:   Once you get off the jetty, you can head to Pedal & Flipper Hire to hire out bikes. They have a range of bikes. However, we recommend you hire out an e-bike as it simplifies navigating the island’s rugged terrain. 

Quokka coaches: These are hop-on and hop-off buses that stop at around 19 points in the island. You can get your tickets at the Main Bus Stop between 8:30 AM and 3 PM and can stop by the island’s key landmarks including Henrietta Rocks, the Lighthouse, and Cape Vlamingh. 

Quokka hopper:  If you prefer private transfers, you can hire the Quokka Hopper - electric carts - that drives through Thomsan Bay, Kingstown and Geordie Bay. They operate between 8 AM and 10 PM every day and we recommend you make a booking in advance if you want to avoid delays.

Plan your Rottnest Island tour

The Island is open throughout the year and on all days of the year.

If you are taking a Rottnest Express Ferry from nearby points, you should know that the first from Perth (towards Rottnest) is at 8:45 AM and the last ferry towards Perth is at 7:30 PM. From Fremantle, the ferries start at 7:30 AM and the last ferry back is at 8:15 PM. 

Best time to visit

To experience the best beach life, head to Rottnest Island during the summers (November to January) or even Autumn (March to May). These are the best months to soak in the warm sun and sign up for the long line-up of beach activities. However, prices tend to be on the higher side during these times, especially during summer, and you can expect sizeable crowds even on weekdays. While the wetter and colder months (June to August) are less crowded, the rains and the cold weather might mean that you are stuck indoors.

Restrooms: Available at the Settlement, Army Jetty, Kingstown Barracks, The Basin, Vlamingh Lookout and Geordie Bay.

Showers: Located at the Settlement, Army Jetty, Kingstown Barracks, The Basin, Vlamingh Lookout and Geordie Bay.

Changing rooms: Henderson Avenue and Thomson Bay

Water refill stations: The Settlement, Army Jetty, Kingstown Barracks, The Basin, Vlamingh Lookout and Geordie Bay.

Baby changing facilities: Thomson Bay and Geordie Bay

Barbecue facilities: Thomson and Geordie Bays

• Ferries: All ferry services are wheelchair accessible. 
• Beaches: Most beaches and bays are fitted with ramps and wheelchair-friendly pathways. 
• Toilets: Accessible toilets are available at Visitor Centre, Thomson Bay, Stay Rottnest Campground, The Basin, Geordie Bay, Parker Point, Stark Bay, West End
• Showers: Bedford Avenue and Thomson Bay are equipped with accessible showers. 
• Guide dogs: Service dogs are permitted but the local rangers have to be informed in advance since this is a Class A Reserve. 
• Accommodation: Discovery Resorts - an island accommodation - offers accessible tents. 
• Coaches: Quokka Coaches - the shuttle service around the island - offers wheelchair accessibility.

Dome Cafe : A breezy, pretty-looking cafe by Thomson Bay serving up soups, sandwiches, all-day breakfasts and desserts along with chilled beer and wine. 

Lontara: Upscale dining option, near The Settlement, serving Asian flavours and delectable cocktails.

Isola Bar e Cibo: Traditional Italian dishes made from fresh local ingredients, this seaside place is best known for its jumbo prawns, succulent lamb and fresh pasta. 

Geordie’s Cafe and Art Gallery : Located near the busy Geordie Bay, this is a laidback cafe with outdoor seating, serving up hefty burgers, fresh salads, and loaded milkshakes.

• Alcohol consumption: Street drinking is not permitted on the island. 
• Camping: Camping is only allowed in designated spots. 
• BBQ: Barbecuing is not allowed except in the designated areas. 
• Pets: Domestic pets are not allowed on the island. 
• Wildlife interactions: Touching wildlife and swimming with long-nosed fur seals is not permitted and attracts heavy fines.

Visitor’s Tips

• Beach properties: Longreach Beach is closer to the island’s hotels and accommodations if you are looking for a property close to a beach. 
• Photo point: The West End is the western-most point of the island and we recommend a stop by for dramatic views of the blue waves crashing against the rocky coves that line the shore. 
• Quokka alert:  The island’s cutest inhabitants - the quokkas - are in the habit of grabbing food and things that are kept on the floor or at a low level so make sure you keep everything out of reach! 
• Day at the museum: The Wadjemup Museum pays moving tribute to the island’s history - tracing the lives of the Aboriginals who were imprisoned and buried on Rottenest, highlighting its military tunnels and its WWII gun battery. It is a must for history buffs! 
• Seal spotting: Hop on to the Eco Express Boat Tour that jets through the clear, turquoise waters and also packs in an encounter with long-nosed fur seals. 
• Whale watching: If you’re visiting the Island between August and December, then head to the Cathedral Rocks or Cape Vlamingh, peel your eyes on the waters and wait for the whales to come by!

Frequently Asked Questions about Rottnest Island Tours

The prices of tours to Rottnest Island depend on the experience you are signing up for. Rottenest Island ferry tickets start off at about AU$ 78. And experiences like the bike , segway and boat tours are slotted between AU$ 137 and 208.

Rottnest Island tours can easily be booked online. There are also multiple options including bike, segway and boat tours .

Rottnest Island tours are best booked online for their various advantages, such as, - Advanced planning: Rottnest Island is ideal for a day trip or a weekend getaway and having your bookings in place helps you plan in advance and flesh out the details of your trip.  - Avoid Disappointment: Accessible from Perth, Fremantle and Hillarys Boat Harbour, the tickets to Rottnest Island can sell out fast on weekends. This is because Rottnest Island ferries are the most popular way to access the island and other tour tickets are limited. - Convenience: Many of the Rottnest Island ferries and tours offer you the flexibility of fully refundable cancellations up to 24 hours.

The inclusions under the Rottnest Island ticket depend on what you have signed up for. Usually, Rottnest Island ferry tickets will bring you back and forth from the island. However, tour tickets often include to-and-fro ferry rides, pickups from CBD hotels, and specific tour experiences. There are also guided tour options available.

Rottnest Island is a very popular getaway and discounts may not be available. However, Rottnest Island tours often offer great value for money, packing in ferry trips, unique experiences, pick-ups and drops and guided tours in one ticket. You may also enjoy some online discounts while booking that you may not get in offline bookings.

Yes, there are! Guided Tours include a tour of the island and an introduction to its history and encounters with its wildlife. There are also guided segway tours that stop by the island’s best-known landmarks.

A handful of the tours offer cancellations up to 24 hours of the experience. However, the guided tours cannot be cancelled once booked.

Rottnest Island is open throughout the year and around the clock. However, if you are accessing it from Perth, the first ferry leaves after 8 AM and the last ferry back is at 7:30 PM. From Fremantle, the first ferry is at 7:30 AM and the last ferry back is at 8:15 PM.

Rottnest Island is easily accessible by ferries from Perth, Fremantle, and Hillarys Boat Harbour through ferries, and boats. There are also scenic flights available for slightly higher prices. However, there is no car access to the island.

Absolutely! Perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Rottnest Island is a small but breathtaking island, just off Perth. It offers visitors the chance to dive into its turquoise and blue waters, explore underwater caves and shipwrecks, discover unique wildlife and chill out on sandy beaches.

The ultimate guide for the best Rottnest Island day trip (2024 Updated)

Post updated January 2024

I’m a frequent visitor to Rottnest Island and I simply think that Rottnest is the best day trip from Perth. Although the ferry price can be a sting to the wallet for any budget-conscious travellers, a Rottnest Island day trip is worth it,  especially if you plan it right.

Table of Contents

How to get to Rottnest Island

Rottnest is located 18 km off the coast of Perth city. You can get there by private boat, ferry or air services. Some crazy people also swim there every year but that’s another story.

Ferry services to Rottnest

There are three different companies that have ferry services to Rottnest. These leave several times a day throughout the day from Fremantle, Perth and Hillarys.

Although there are frequent ferry services to Rotto it’s advisable to pre-book your ticket at least one day in advance to ensure that you get a spot on the boat.

Rottnest Ferry services:

• Rottnest Express 

Rottnest Fast Ferries

Fremantle to Rottnest Island

Fremantle to Rottnest Island ferries leave from the B-Shed at Victoria Quay or Fremantle Northport and take about 30 minutes to get to and from the island.

The B-Shed is located behind Fremantle Train Station and is the best option if you’re reliant on public transport.

If you’re planning on leaving your car in Fremantle, the ferry terminal at Northport has cheaper parking than B-Shed.

Perth to Rottnest Island

From Perth, you can catch the ferry to Rottnest from Barrack Street Jetty. This is a more expensive option and will take about 90 minutes to get to Rottnest Island. There’s also a transit stop in Fremantle to pick up more passengers.

The advantage is that you get a lovely cruise of the beautiful Swan River and this is well worth the extra time (and money) if you’re a first time visitor to Perth.

Hillarys to Rottnest Island

Rottnest Ferries depart from Hillarys Boat Harbour and take approximately 45 minutes. This is a good option if you’re staying in Perth’s northern suburbs. However, ferries from Hillarys are less frequent and only travel two or three times per day. They’re also slightly more expensive than departing from Fremantle.

The cheapest way to get to Rottnest Island

Most Rottnest Island ferry companies advertise return fares for $49. This, however, excludes the $20 admission fee for the island. There are also additional fees for bicycles, extra luggage, extended stays and sports equipment.

In short, tickets to Rottnest without any special discounts are at least $79 without any extra luggage or bikes. The booking systems on the website are a cumbersome affair and you’ll need to select various options before you find out how much the final cost is.

To find cheap tickets to Rottnest Island, it’s worth checking the deals or special offers with each ferry company. They generally offer different perks under the deals or special offers section on their websites.

Some ferry service companies offer mid-week discounts and free travel for kids if you sign up to their club. I’ve also seen offers for free bike transport, discounts for afternoon departures and twilight specials.

See the special deals sections here:

 Rottnest Express

You can also find discount coupons for ferry services to Rottnest in the Entertainment book, West Rewards and sometimes on Groupon. An additional tip is if you’re a RAC member, you may also find cheap tickets to Rottnest on the RAC website.

Rottnest Island Tours

There are several convenient tours to Perth to Rottnest. If you’re a visitor to Perth this is your best option as they can also include pick up from your accommodation. The added bonus is that you can pre-book and easily cancel if your plans change.

Rottnest Island Ferry and Bike Package

This includes the ferry trip and all day bike hire. Pick up from your accommodation can also be included.

See prices and availability here.

Ferry and Bus Tour

This includes the Ferry trip and a 1.45 hour bus tour to explore the island. Departure point is either from Perth or Fremantle with a selection of departure times.

Air services to Rottnest

You can get to Rottnest by air. Flights are available with Rottnest Air Taxi Ozwest Aviation Swan River Seaplanes and Rotorvation if you prefer rotary aircraft.

How to get around Rottnest Island

There are no cars on the island and Rottnest is made for exploring on two wheels.

If you don’t want to cruise around on a bike, the Rottnest Island Explorer bus service is a hop on hop off service that does a circuit around the whole island. This is your only option of public transport on the island.

The bus leaves every half hour from the main bus stop and stops at Rottnest’s best beaches and attractions including Wadjemup Lighthouse.

Tickets for the bus cost $30 for adults and $15 for children and concession cardholders.

It’s best to get bus tickets in advance during busy holiday times. The queue for tickets on the island can get very long. One option is to book the ferry and bus tour package.

Rottnest Island Restaurants and Shops

Shops, cafes and restaurants are located in the Main Settlement near the jetty. This is where you’ll find a well-stocked general store, selection of cafes, restaurants, bakery and a boutique.

The only other place with a shop and cafe is Geordie Bay. There are also food trucks serving coffee and snacks at The Basin and The West End. The rest of the island is pure nature and there are no options to buy water or food anywhere else.

If you’re venturing off on your bike, make sure that you have some supplies with you. There are a few water taps located around the island with drinking water but definitely take some with you.

Rottnest Island Bike Hire

Rottnest Island is car-free and most of the fun is had by cruising around on two wheels. My advice is if you know how to ride a bike, get a bike for your Rottnest Island day trip.

You can either bring your own bike with you which costs about $20 to take on the ferry.  The main hassle is that you need to bring it to the ferry terminal. Once at the terminal, it’s a matter of simply dropping off the bike and it will be loaded and unloaded off the boat for you.

The second option is to hire a bike. Most ferry companies offer a ferry and bike package. You can collect your bike as soon as you get off the boat on Rottnest. Costs for bike rentals are usually $30 per day.

You can also get bicycle rental on Rottnest Island with Rottnest Island Pedal and Flipper . This is more time consuming because you need to walk to the hire place, fill out a form, choose your bike, grab a helmet etc, all before you can set off. Details on Rottnest bike hire is here .

How much time do you need for Rottnest?

If you’re planning a Rottnest Island day trip, it’s advisable to spend at least six hours on Rottnest Island. This will give you time to get your bearings, explore beaches or other attractions and have some downtime at a cafe or pub before you return to Perth.

Where to see Quokkas on Rottnest Island

The quokkas are a definite highlight for any day trip to Rottnest and it’s unlikely that you’ll leave without seeing this cute attraction.

The Rottnest quokkas are used to interacting with humans and turn up in all sorts of locations all around the island.

I’ve seen quokkas at the pub, trying to sneak into the supermarket and on the beach. I even came across a very chilled quokka peacefully snoozing under a table at the bakery during the height of the holiday season, completely unperturbed at the hustle and bustle around him.

The quokka selfie has become so famous that even the most respectable looking adults will lie on the floor of the pub to get the perfect quokka selfie.

As outgoing and happy as they seem, please remember that they are wild animals. As such never feed or touch them.

When is the best time to visit Rottnest Island?

If you’re visiting for the first time, you’ll definitely want clear, blue skies, lots of sunshine and little wind. The beaches are spectacular and you’ll want to see them at their best.

That said, any time of the year is good. Summer is perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The cooler months are excellent for cycling, hiking and the chance to see the migrating whales.

The wind is another factor that you’ll want to consider. If it’s windy in Perth, you can be sure that it will be even windier on Rottnest Island.

Consider the wind direction when you start cycling. If it is a day with the strong southerly wind, you can find sheltered beaches on the northern side that are protected from the wind.

Rottnest gets very busy during school holiday periods. However, I’ve never found this to be a problem and if you pre-book your ferry ticket it’s unlikely that you won’t get a spot on the day that you want to travel.

Once you arrive on Rottnest Island the crowds disperse and it’s still possible to have a little beach or bay all to yourself.

What to do on Rottnest Island

Most of the island’s activities centre around bicycles, spectacular beaches and natural attractions. However, there are plenty of other activities to be enjoyed on Rotto too.

If you’re visiting for the first time make the Visitor’s Centre your first port of call to get all the information about available activities. The Visitor’s Centre is located at the foot of the jetty at Thomson Bay.

The exceptionally helpful heritage guides are also an excellent source of information and you’ll see their happy faces around the Main Settlement area wearing bright yellow shirts. Say hi and learn a few historical facts about Rottnest.

Most first-time visitors to Rottnest Island gravitate to Thompson Bay. While this is a good first port of call, make sure that you venture of a bit further and see some prettier beaches. The most accessible from Thompson Bay are Pinky’s Beach and Basin.

Here are some ideas about things to do on Rottnest Island

• Explore Rottnest’s 63 beaches and bays.  The best ones will depend on the time of day and weather conditions, especially the wind. Some favourites though include The Basin, Pinky Beach, Salmon Bay, Parakeet Bay and Armstrong Bay but the list goes on and on.
• Take a quokka selfie. I haven’t succeeded in this yet but everyone from Roger Federer to Margot Robbie is doing it.
• Go snorkelling. Rottnest has some of the best snorkelling spots in the state.  There are underwater snorkelling trails at Parker Point and Little Salmon Bay.
• Have a drink at Hotel Rottnest Samphire or Pinky’s
• See the seals at Cathedral Rock at the West End.
• Hike the Wadjemup Bidi Trails. If you love hiking, explore the best of the island on this superb network of trails. Get the full trail details here .
• Play golf. Rottnest Island has an 18-hole golf course and country club.
• Kids activities vary during the school holiday season.
• Go skydiving. See Rottnest from above with Skydive Geronimo. See how it’s done here.
• Learn history. Rottnest has some interesting history that can be explored on a range of guided and self-guided tours.
• Visit the lighthouse.
• Catch the Rottnest Train. Trains leave from the quaint Settlement Train Station and go to Oliver Hill where you can view remnants of WWII.

What to pack for a day trip to Rottnest

If you’re planning on a day trip to Rottnest Island you probably won’t want to pack too much gear – especially if you’ll be riding a bike all day. If you have got extra stuff, you can hire lockers near the Visitor’s Centre to stash your gear.

Here are some of the essential’s that you might want to pack:

• Sun protection. Don’t forget to slip, slop, slap. I’ve seen many tourists on the return ferry looking like beetroots. Don’t be that person. See my sun safety tips here.
• Food and water. Things cost more on Rottnest Island if you’re budget conscious bring a few snacks and a water bottle. Water refills and potable water fountains are located at several spots around the island.
• Snorkelling gear. Rottnest has some incredibly accessible snorkelling spots. If you don’t have a snorkel and mask you can hire them from Pedal and Flippers .
• Selfie stick – because no trip to Rotto is complete without a quokka selfie.
• Beachwear in summer and an extra fleece of windcheater in winter. It does get breezy even in summer so bring a jumper.

Staying on Rottnest Island

Rottnest has a range of accommodation options. This includes self-contained holiday units, cabins, hotel rooms, the new Discovery Park glamping resort as well as a campground.

Accommodation can be booked via the Rottnest Island page here . Note, that it can be hard to secure accommodation for units, cabins and apartment, especially during peak seasons.  Rotto is WA’s best-loved holiday spot and many people book 18 months in advance to get their holiday units.

Find some options for hotels and the excellent new glamping resort here .

An easy and affordable way to stay overnight on Rottnest, even during peak season is to take a tent and camp on Rottnest Island. See how it’s done here.

Have you been to Rottnest Island? Leave your tips and any questions in the comments below. 

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my full disclosure for further information.

WA Explorer

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30 comments.

Love this, so detailed! Inspiring me to make a trip over.

Great post. I think we need to return soon.

[…] For practical tips on how to get the most out of your day trip to Rottnest, read on here. […]

[…] While it’s not the most luxurious option the campground offers a convenient and relatively affordable way to stay overnight on Rottnest Island. For more tips on Rottnest Island see my Rottnest Island Guide here.  […]

[…] Visit the official Rottnest Island page to plan your visit, or check out this guide to Rottnest by West Australian Explorer.  Several ferry operators run the daily route to the island – try Rottnest Express or […]

We were just over for a day trip yesterday. We go with the same group each year and always just head to the Basin to swim and have lunch, then back toward the ferry at the end of the day. I’d love to explore more- so far I’ve only ever been to those spots, so I’ve not seen much of the island. xx Jenelle | http://www.inspiringwit.com

There are so many different ways to have a perfect day on Rotto. A swim at the Basin and lunch sounds perfect to me.

[…] It’s a really beautiful place so do spend some time wandering around it – check out this post if you’re looking for the perfect itinerary for your Rottnest day trip. […]

[…] anyone travelling to the sunny west coast of Australia, a trip to Rottnest Island should be at the top of the Australia bucket list. This little island paradise is located 18 km off […]

This island has such a happy and relaxed vibe. I have never heard of this place before and the best thing I would love to do will be cycle around the island and just relax on the beach

Good choice, relaxing on a beach is definitely one of the best things you can do on Rottnest.

So, you’re telling me that there’s an island with no cars, beautiful beaches and Roger Federer with a quokka?? Sign me up. Clearly, I’ve been off the grid as I haven’t heard of a the quokka selfie before (or even a quokka). Now I want one in the worst way. Thanks for filling me in!

Lol, exactly. No cars, amazing beaches, Roger Federer and the happiest animal in the world. It’s all here. Book your flights now.

Thanks for the detailed guide! The quokkas are super cute and the beaches and the ocean look gorgeous! I’d love to visit Rottnest Island and perhaps camp there in the wilderness.

Hope you get to visit one day, camping on Rottnest is a great experience. You even get the quokkas coming to visit you in the tent.

It’s pretty pricey to go here, but it seems like it’s definitely worth it. I like the fact that there are no automobiles and riding a bike is the way to get around the island. I love riding bicycles and would like to stay the night here as well 🙂

We didn’t get chance to visit Rottnest when we visited Perth but we only had a few days. We’re planning on returning to Perth for a longer trip and Rottnest is a priority for us, this info will be very helpful!

Great, hope you guys make it back to the west sometime soon. Rottnest is well worth the money spent in getting there, even better when you can spend a few days there.

Rottnest Island seems to be an awesome place to visit, and I would definitely like to visit next time we travel to Australia. Biking around the island looks very cool! Never heard about quokkas before, what cute little fellows! That’s the beauty of Australia, lots of amazing wildlife at any corner!

I never knew about Rottnest Island and it looks a worth day trip from Perth. The water looks crystal and sparkling blue. Great to know that this island has 63 beaches and many bays.

Now that sounds like a wonderful escape, though I think I would want to try for an overnight. I can imagine the island in the early morning and evening hours, when many of the visitors are gone, is just special. And LOVE the Rottnest quokka selfie. 😉

That quokka is so cute! I would totally want to stay overnight and spend some time here. Thanks for all the great info and tips!

[…] Read more: The Ultimate Guide for the Best Rottnest Island Day Trip […]

[…] All you need to know for the perfect trip to Rottnest Island […]

[…] you’re visiting sunny Western Australia then you should put a visit to Rottnest Island at the very top of your list of things to do with families in Australia. This little island […]

Thanks, We went to Rottnest Island with the kids and enjoyed the beaches with clear water, the picturesque places, the lovely Quokka and more.

Sounds like a perfect day. Hope you’ll be back again.

[…] The ultimate guide on the best Rottnest Island Day Trip […]

[…] Rottnest Island is a great day trip from Perth. When skydiving on Rottnest Island, there are a number of ways to access the island and your skydiving location. […]

[…] just do a Rottnest Island day trip when you can stay overnight? With a little organisation camping on Rottnest Island the old […]

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THE 10 BEST Rottnest Island Tours & Excursions

Tours in rottnest island.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Scenic Railroads
• Segway Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Cultural Tours
• Night Tours
• Private Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Discover Rottnest with Ferry & Bus Tour

2. Experience Rottnest with Ferry & Bike Hire

3. Adventure Rottnest Tour with Ferry & Adventure Cruise

4. Rottnest Island Round-Trip Ferry from Perth

5. Rottnest Island Bayseeker Day Trip from Perth

6. Perth to Rottnest Island Roundtrip Ferry Ticket

7. Rottnest Island Round Trip Ferry from Fremantle

8. Rottnest Island Grand Tour Including Lunch and Historical Train Ride

9. Rottnest Island Full-Day Trip With Guided Island Tour From Perth

10. Fremantle to Rottnest Island Roundtrip Ferry Ticket

11. Rottnest Island Bayseeker Day Trip from Fremantle

12. Rottnest Island 'Snorkel and Sail'

13. Rottnest Island Segway Tour: Fortress Adventure Tour

14. Sealink Bike & Ferry Package from Perth to Rottnest

15. Rottnest Island Roundtrip Fast Ferry from Hillarys Boat Harbour

16. Rottnest Island ECO E Bike Tour

17. Seaplane Flights Perth to Rottnest Island and return

18. Sealink Bike & Ferry Package from Fremantle

19. Luxe Island Seafood Cruise - Rottnest Island

20. Rottnest Island Tandem Skydive

21. Rottnest Island Twilight Sail

22. Rottnest Island Fast Ferry from Hillarys Boat Harbour Including Bike Hire

23. Luxe Seafood Package with Round Trip Ferry from Perth

24. Rottnest Bayseeker Bus Tour from Hillarys Boat Harbour

25. One Way Seaplane Flight - Perth to Rottnest Island

26. PADI Open Water Course

27. Rottnest Skydive + Fremantle Ferry Package

28. Luxe Seafood Package with Round Trip Ferry from Fremantle

29. Rottnest Skydive + Hillarys Ferry package

30. Rottnest Island Skydive Including Round Trip Ferry from Fremantle

What travellers are saying.

• Experience Rottnest with Ferry & Bike Hire
• Discover Rottnest with Ferry & Bus Tour
• Rottnest Island Round Trip Ferry from Fremantle
• Perth to Rottnest Island Roundtrip Ferry Ticket
• Adventure Rottnest Tour with Ferry & Adventure Cruise
• Segway Tours WA - Rottnest
• Skydive Geronimo Rottnest
• Rottnest Air-Taxi
• Oliver Hill Guns and Tunnel Tour
• Fly Rottnest Island
• Sea Kayak Rottnest
• Rottnest Island Train Rides

Rottnest Island Day Trip: Perfect One Day Itinerary

Just a short ferry ride from Perth the island paradise of Rottnest Island awaits. Also known as “Rotto” by locals like myself, this destination offers a laid-back escape that feels worlds apart from the busy mainland. 

With its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife and relaxed island vibes, Rottnest is the perfect getaway from Perth, be it for a day or longer. Whether you’re seeking a day filled with beach hopping, exploring the island by bicycle or snapping a selfie with the insta-famous quokkas, a day trip to Rottnest will delight. 

Read on for my guide packed with insider tips and suggested Rottnest Island day trip itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your day trip to Rottnest Island from Perth. This is your ultimate Rottnest Island guide. 

This blog post was published in December 2020 and last updated in September 2023.

Table of Contents

About Rottnest Island

Lying just off the coast of Perth, Western Australia, Rottnest Island got its name from Dutch explorer Willem de Vlamingh in 1696. He mistook the island’s unique quokkas for large rats and hence named it “Rattennest” (Rat’s Nest).

Aboriginal Australians are thought to have inhabited the island over 30,000 years ago with the Whadjuk Noongar people, the land’s traditional custodians, referring to it as Wadjemup .

The island has a grim past; during British settlement in the 19th century, the island was used as a prison for Indigenous people. Many of the buildings in existence on the island today were constructed by these prisoners.

From a penal settlement turned popular holiday spot in the early 20th century, the island sure has changed a lot since then.

Today, its stunning beaches, unique wildlife and historical sites attract thousands of visitors to the island each year.

Best Time to Visit Rottnest Island

Due to many of the best things to do on Rottnest involving exploring the spectacular beaches, many will tell you that the best time to visit Rottnest Island is during the warmer months from November to March. 

Personally, I think you can visit all year round .

Perth has mild winters, making a trip to Rottnest Island in winter a great activity to do on a sunny winter’s day.

Plus, during winter the island sees substantially fewer visitors and the chance to spot baby quokkas! For more reasons on why it’s worth visiting in winter, check out my guide here .

For more day trips from Perth, check out 20+ ideas here !

How Much Time to Spend on Rottnest

For Rottnest Island, one day is sufficient to let you explore the primary attractions and see the highlights of the island. However, if your schedule permits a longer stay and you can snag available accommodation, it’s worthwhile spending a few nights.

This offers a more laid-back experience, letting you really soak in the tranquil beauty of the island after the day visitors have left. 

Securing a place to stay can be challenging; accommodation on the island gets quickly snapped up when it’s released months ahead by locals. If you find yourself short on time or unable to secure lodging, a Rottnest Island day trip is worth doing and won’t disappoint. 

Certain times of the year see a surge in visitors to the island due to special events.

Notably, the annual Rottnest Island swim, typically held in the last few weeks of February, draws a large crowd. Additionally, the summer school holidays in December and January, especially weekends, are busier than usual.

Try to plan a visit for mid-week if possible during this period. 

However, with some forethought, these peak times can still be manageable. Just make sure to reserve your ferry tickets and bicycle hire a few weeks ahead of time, and your visit should proceed smoothly.

Rottnest Island Accommodation

Accommodation on the island is limited, particularly during the school holiday periods . 

I’ve found that the best chance of securing accommodation during busier periods or for last-minute stays is with Discovery Rottnest Island (glamping tents). 

Here’s a rundown of the accommodation on Rottnest:

• Discovery Rottnest Island : A modern eco-friendly retreat with luxury glamping tents nestled amongst the sand dunes near Pinky Beach.
• Samphire Rottnest: Upscale hotel accommodation with a pool
• Stay Rottnest Self-Contained units : Self-catering facilities scattered across the island, ranging from 4 to 6-bed options perfect for families and groups. 
• Stay Rottnest Hostel & Dorms: A budget-friendly option with private rooms and dorm-style accommodation with common areas. 
• Stay Rottnest Campground: Non-powered campsites with a communal camp kitchen and ablution blocks. 

Karma Rottnest is now closed due to redevelopment

Getting to Rottnest Island from Perth

The majority of visitors catch a ferry from Perth to Rottnest Island. 

Ferries set sail from various locations including Perth CBD (Barrack St Jetty), Fremantle and Hillarys Boat Harbour. Various companies operate from each of these locations, but they all offer a similar service regardless of departure location. 

Fremantle is my preferred departure port . Not only is it conveniently located a short walk from the Fremantle Train Station, but it also has the shortest ferry ride to the island at a swift 30-minute journey. 

Furthermore, if you are hiring a car to get around Perth during your visit, the Fremantle ferry has ample affordable paid parking options for the day.

However, if you are staying in the Perth CBD, then catching the ferry from Barrack St Jetty is a great option as it involves a scenic cruise along the Swan River.

For a Rottnest day trip, I recommend booking an early morning ferry departure to maximise your time on the island. 

Tip: A quick tip for day trippers without checked-in bags: make sure to be at the ferry terminal at least 15 minutes beforehand as the ferry departs punctually. 

With most online bookings, you should be able to show your ticket on your phone and head straight to the ferry when you arrive at the port (double check your booking confirmation!). 

Both SeaLink (blue ferries) and Rottnest Express (red ferries) operate out of Perth and Fremantle.

Rottnest Fast Ferries (green ferries) only operate from Hillarys Boat Harbour.

Getting Around Rottnest Island

One of the unique aspects of Rottnest is that there are no cars on the island (other than service vehicles). Riding a bicycle is the most common way to explore Rottnest Island, or there is a hop-on hop-off bus.

Getting Around Rottnest by Bicycle

Exploring Rottnest Island by bike is a great way to see the island at your own pace.

Word of warning though – the island is hilly! A moderate level of fitness is required if you want to spend your day riding from one end of the island to another. 

Hiring a Bicycle on the Island

For bicycle hire, you can either book a ferry ticket with bicycle hire or hire one on the island. I have found the quality of the bikes to be better at the shop on the island, the ones provided by some of the ferry companies can be of mixed quality as they are brought over on the ferry. 

The bicycle store on the island is called Pedal & Flipper , a 10-minute walk from the ferry. They are open from 8.30am to 4pm daily, so make sure to return your bike before they close. 

You can also hire electric bikes (e-bikes) from Pedal & Flipper. The upside of this is it makes those tough hills a lot easier, but the bike hire fee is over double that of a normal bicycle. 

As of September 2023, adult bicycle hire is $30/ day and e-bike hire is $71/day. The hire fee includes a helmet and lock. It is mandatory by law to wear helmets when riding bicycles in Australia. 

Snorkel equipment can also be hired for an additional fee. 

Ferry & Bicycle Hire Package

For convenience, you can book a ferry ticket and bicycle hire in one ticket. 

For these packages, the bikes are provided directly by the ferry company and will be waiting for you when you get off the ferry.

This is the most convenient option as you can start riding as soon as you get off the ferry, but sometimes the bicycles aren’t the best quality. 

These options are summarised below.

Getting Around Rottnest by Bus

The next option to get around on your day trip to Rottnest Island is by bus. 

For a fuss-free (and hill-free!) option, there is an Island Explorer hop-on hop-off bus service. These shuttle services around the island allow you to explore the island at your own pace, jumping on and off at 19 different stops around the island. 

As of September 2023, the bus operates all week long between 8.30am and 3pm (at 15-minute intervals) and then from 3pm – 5pm (at 30-minute intervals). Tickets are $25/adult and can be pre-purchased online, in-person at the Visitor Centre or at the main bus stop near the ferry terminal.

During peak periods, you may have to stand on the bus or if the bus is completely full, wait for the next bus. 

This shuttle bus service is not a guided tour and there is no commentary.

Read on for tour options below. 

Rottnest Island Tours

The easiest way to get around Rottnest is on a guided bus tour . Offered as a package with round-trip ferry tickets, enjoy a 1-hour 45-minute tour in an air-conditioned bus with live commentary as you discover the island’s flora, fauna and must-see spots. 

The bus tour covers all of the island’s highlights, including the Wadjemup Lighthouse, Henrietta Rocks, Cathedral Rocks lookout and Cape Vlamingh.

This tour allows you to get familiar with the layout of the island and see the furthest away spots, before having a few hours of free time after the tour to explore the main settlement at Thomson’s Bay, have lunch and a swim before hopping back on the ferry home. 

• Check prices and availability (departures from Perth or Fremantle)

A more extensive guided tour of Rottnest Island is available.

This Rottnest grand island tour is a 4-hour island tour that includes the guided bus tour, plus a tour of the Oliver Hill Gun Fortification and Tunnels and a light lunch. 

• Check prices and availability (departing from Perth or Fremantle)
• Check prices and availability (departing from Hillarys)

What to Bring On A Rottnest Day Trip

Here’s a short packing list to help you plan your Rottnest trip.

• Snorkel (also available for hire from Pedal & Flipper)
• Camera 
• Bathers (or wear them over underneath your clothes)
• Sneakers and Flip-Flops
• Water Bottle
• Sun Protection including Sunglasses and Hat
• Seasickness Medication if required 
• Light Snacks (or buy on the island)

Stay hydrated: there are water bottle refill stations at Geordie Bay, the Settlement, The Basin and the Visitor Centre.

You’ll need to leave your drone at home if you have one. Drone use is not permitted on the island unless you have obtained a special permit from the Rottnest Island Authority due to the abundant wildlife and central airport located on the island.

What to Do in Rottnest Island In One Day

Go beach hopping at some of rottnest’s best beaches.

With 63 beaches and 20 bays, there is no shortage of spectacular beaches to be found on Rottnest. 

Some of my favourite spots that I recommend visiting by bicycle around the island are (listed from a counterclockwise direction around the island): 

• Parker Point: a snorkelling spot with a long flight of wooden stairs leading down to the beach
• Little Salmon Bay: beautiful crystal clear water, excellent snorkelling and a sheltered bay.
• Little Parakeet Bay: sheltered little bay with the larger Parakeet Bay next door
• The Basin: one of the more popular snorkelling spots, within walking distance from the main settlement. 
• Pinky’s Beach: Located in front of Discovery Rottnest Island and Pinky’s Beach Club, this beach is looked over by the Bathurst Lighthouse

Cycle or Walk Through the Salt Lakes

The centre of Rottnest Island is made up of 10 salt lakes over a whopping 200 hectares.

They have created a unique wetland ecosystem, with waterbirds and interesting plant life that has adapted to the saltiness such as the samphire plant (from which the Hotel Samphire gets its name). At certain times of the year, the salt lakes may turn hues of pink.

You can cycle your way through the salt lakes, or traverse on foot. There is a boardwalk installed that allows you to walk through the lakes, as part of the Wadjemup Bidi trail .  

Visit the Lighthouses

Rottnest is home to two lighthouses; the Wadjemup Lighthouse in the centre of the island, and Bathurst Lighthouse near Pinky’s Beach. 

Wadjemup Lighthouse was built in 1896 on the highest point of the island to safeguard against shipwrecks. Today, it takes the title of Australia’s fourth tallest lighthouse of its kind. It’s still in use today, helping to guide ships towards the port of Fremantle. 

Volunteers offer guided tours to the top of Wadjemup Lighthouse. Unfortunately, these can’t be booked online in advance, but it’s worth enquiring at the Volunteer Information Booth in town or checking in at the Lighthouse during your visit. 

The smaller Bathurst Lighthouse is also operational, however isn’t open to visitors for guided tours within the lighthouse. You can visit the exterior, and it’s a great spot to watch the sunset on Rottnest. 

Snap a Quokka Selfie

Thanks to the viral “ Quokka Selfie ” trend on social media, Rottnest Island’s charming quokkas have become international celebrities. These adorable marsupials, found exclusively on Rottnest Island, have been delighting visitors and the online world with their adorable smiles.

While quokkas are dispersed throughout the island, they’re notably active during the early morning and late afternoon. A popular hotspot to spot them is around the General Store and Bakery in Thompsons Bay.

However, a word of caution: many quokkas here tend to feed on leftover food scraps, which isn’t ideal for these herbivorous critters.

Always remember to respect the wildlife. While it’s tempting to interact closely, avoid touching or feeding the quokkas. But don’t hold back on capturing that perfect selfie – just do so responsibly!

On the spot fines of $200 apply for feeding and interfering with the quokkas.

See Rottnest from Above on a Scenic Flight

One of the best ways to truly take in the vivid colours of Rottnest’s many bays and beaches, and sparkling salt lakes, is from above on a scenic flight. Rottnest Air Taxi offers short scenic joy flights over the island. 

For the more adventurous, tick off a bucket list item with a tandem skydive over Rottnest. This exhilarating experience will give you a unique perspective of Rottnest, and leave you with memories you won’t forget anytime soon!

Check prices and availability here

Spot Seals at Cathedral Rocks

At the West End of Rottnest, the furthest point from the main settlement lies a lookout platform at Cathedral Rocks. From here, there’s a good chance of spotting seals sunbathing on the rocks below.

It is a long bike ride to get here, so make sure you have enough time if visiting for a day trip or catching the Island Explorer Bus. 

Learn about Rottnest’s History at Wadjemup Museum

Recently renovated, the Wadjemup Museum is the spot to learn more about the history of the island. Entry is a gold coin donation to this small museum, which is open daily from 10 am to 3.30 pm.

For more ideas on things to do on Rottnest, check out my guide with 25 ideas here .

Rottnest Island Day Trip Itinerary

Start your day on Rottnest by grabbing a map from the Visitors Centre as you disembark from the ferry. You can also purchase hop-on hop-off bus tickets here. 

Generally, it’s best to explore the island in a counter-clockwise loop, due to the direction of the wind. It also allows you to tackle the hillier sections of the island when you are fresh if cycling around the island. 

At the main settlement of Thomson Bay (where you get off the ferry), there is a small supermarket and the yummy Rottnest Bakery.

This is Stop 1 on my map below. Pick up any snacks to tide you over, or something for lunch later. 

Heading in a counter-clockwise direction, stop off at some of the best beaches in Rottnest. I recommend Parker Point (stop 2) and Little Salmon Bay (stop 3) . 

Continue on by bike or bus, to the Wadjemup Lighthouse (stop 4) in the centre of the island. There is a steep hill to reach the lighthouse, in the shade of the trees along here keep an eye out for quokkas that frequent this area.

At Wadjemup Lighthouse, there is a vintage caravan serving coffee and light snacks. If you’ve cycled here, you’ll likely be in need of refreshment after that hill! Sit back and enjoy the view of the lighthouse and 360 panoramic view of the island from your high vantage point. Kalli’s is open seasonally in the warmer months. 

At this point, you have a choice of continuing on to the West End of Rottnest (stop 5b), or taking a shorter route along the north side of the island, passing through some of Rottnest’s salt lakes on the way (stop 5a) . 

Parakeet Bay or Little Parakeet Bay (stop 6) are some more beautiful beaches worth checking out as you continue your explorations. 

At this point, a lunch stop is probably required! There is a General Store and café at Geordie Bay just after Parakeet Bay. Or, continue on to Pinky’s Beach where you’ll find Pinky’s Beach Club serving food and cocktails all day long. 

Make sure to check out the Basin , just next to Pinky’s Beach too. 

By now, you’re probably getting close to your ferry departure back to the mainland.

Use any spare time to explore the Settlement, checking out the Wadjemup Museum and quokka spotting. Wrap up your day of exploring with a cold drink at Hotel Rottnest, a casual beachfront pub.

This spot is a short 5-minute walk from the ferry, making it an ideal location to toast the end of a memorable day on Rottnest Island. 

Best Places to Eat and Drink on Rottnest Island

In recent years, the food and drink offerings have really expanded on the island, offering a range of cheap eats to fine dining options. 

Check opening hours before you visit, as they may change seasonally. 

Thomson’s Bay (the Settlement)

The main settlement has the largest range of places to eat and drink. Here are some popular options;

• Hotel Rottnest: Classic pub fare, in a casual spot overlooking the beach
• Lontara: Delicious fine-dining South East Asian cuisine
• Subway: One of the most popular cheap eats on the island 
• Isola Rottnest: One of the top-rated restaurants on the island, serving Italian cuisine overlooking Thomson’s Bay
• Rottnest Bakery: Serving a wide range of pies, sausage rolls, sandwiches and sweet pastries and coffee
• Frankie’s on Rotto: Serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner plus yummy pizzas
• Lane Cafe: Claims the spot for the best burgers on Rottnest!

Geordie’s Bay

• Geordie’s Cafe and Art Gallery: An art gallery cafe with a large shaded outside seating area 
• Lexi’s: another vintage caravan, providing much-needed refreshment to those that make it out the West End

Final Thoughts – Day Trip Rottnest Island

That wraps up this comprehensive guide to Rottnest Island. A Rottnest Island day trip from Perth is one of the best things to do for visitors to the city, and I trust this Rottnest Island travel guide has answered all your burning questions and helped you plan your day of adventures.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask them in the comments below.

Continue Reading:

• Fun 3, 5 and 7 Day Itineraries for Exploring Perth
• Guide to Visiting the Hutt Lagoon Pink Lake
• Most Instagrammable Spots in Perth
• Perth to Exmouth Road Trip Guide
• Perth to Kalbarri Road Trip Guide
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TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES My tried and tested recommendations to make your next trip easier

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🏨 Accommodation: I book all my accommodation through booking.com . Discover their vast selection of accommodations worldwide, with great deals and flexible booking options. Plus, if you join their Genius Loyalty program, you get special benefits and discounts on selected stays.

🌟 Attractions & Tours: GetYourGuide is my preferred platform as they make it super easy to compare different tours, book experiences and get the best prices for tours across the world. I've downloaded their mobile app to have all my bookings in one place to easily pull up details when I've got multiple tours booked.

📸If you're wondering what I've used to capture the photos in this article, you can see what's in my camera bag here .

☕ Finally, if you found this free guide useful, you can buy me a coffee to say thanks :)

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20 thoughts on “Rottnest Island Day Trip: Perfect One Day Itinerary”

OMG Quokkas are adorable!! Absolutely adding Rottnest Island to my bucket list!

Wow what a place! I’ve never heard of it but I felt like I took a virtual tour and that was nice! How did you learn about this place!?

Rottnest island looks beautiful, the water reminds me of what ours looks like here in The Bahamas. Thank you for sharing the not so nice history as well, that’s important. The quokkas are so cute, I would love to take some pics with those little guys!

This is so cute! And I love that there are Quokkas too!! The beach is beautiful too…I can’t imagine it being a prison…thanks for sharing a bit of the backstory as well! I’ll opt for renting a bike from the boat haha

This looks like a gorgeous destination (those beaches!), and those quokkas are so cute! Gotta plan a western Australia trip as soon as the world reopens! Thanks for the tips about the AM express ferry and no drones allowed!

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oh my goodness!!! I had never heard of quokkas before but they are just the cutest things ever!! I would take the day trip just to see them!

Quokkas are the cutest little fellas in the world aren’t they!? I want to visit just see their little fuzzy faces, but it is good to know there are gorgeous beaches to explore as well!!

I haven’t heard of this island before, but how clear is that water?! I would love to go swimming here.

THE QUOKKAS! Oh my gosh so cute! Western Australia looks like a DREAM and I’d love to spend some considerable time there!

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Rottnest Island day trip – Our complete itinerary & guide

This is the perfect day trip Itinerary to Rottnest Island. We have put together the best route for you to get the most out of Rotto on your day trip to this paradise island. This itinerary is suitable for everyone as it includes cycling, buses, snorkelling, beaches and Quokkas!

*This post might contain our  affiliate links.   This is at no extra cost to you, but you would be doing us a solid if you did use them. It shows us your appreciation after we have written this amazing travel guide for you 😏*

After spending 3 months living on this amazing island we feel that we have a good idea of the best places to visit if you are here for just the day. We have included a map of each stop on our itinerary so you can clearly see your route around Rottnest Island.

🥐Thompson Bay

🏊🏼‍♂️Parker Point

💡Wadjemup Lighthouse

🎣The West End (optional)

☕ Geordie Bay

Pinky Beach

Although we have designed this itinerary more for people visiting for the day, it can easily be extended by spending longer at each location. If you are lucky enough to be spending more than a day on the island, then you are definitely in for a treat.

If you would prefer to take a Full Island Tour , instead of figuring it out for yourself. Then you also have that option.

For Rottnest’s Best Bits, click here!

Where Is Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island is found on the West Coast of Western Australia. Close to the capital of Perth, the distance from Rottnest Island to Perth is 33kms. The island is on 19km2 which is actually the same size as Fremantle .

How To Get To Rottnest Island

For most people, there is only one way of getting to Rotto and that is by taking the  Rottnest Island ferries . Unless you have your own private boat which is the other option, the ferry is going to be the quickest, cheapest, and most efficient way of getting to this magical island. The journey from Perth to Rottnest Island will take 30 minutes each way.

Closer to the winter months the sea can get choppy so if you get travel sick like us we recommend sitting at the rear of the boat and taking your medication beforehand.

We recommend booking your Rottnest Island ferry in advance as it sells out quickly in the summer months. When booking your ferry to Rottnest Island you have the option to add on your bicycle and snorkel hire for the day, this can save you time and money.

Queuing up at the Rottnest bike hire store on the island can take a long time.

⛴️ Fremantle to Rottnest – B Shed  30 Mins to Rotto 

⛴️ Northport Rous Head Harbour, North Fremantle to Rottnest –  30 Mins to Rotto 

⛴️ Barrack Street Jetty Elizabeth Quay, Perth –  90 Mins to Rotto 

⛴️ Hillarys to Rottnest –  40 Mins to Rotto 

A Rottnest Island Map🗺️ 

Quokka’s on Rottnest Island

First things first there are around 10,000 Quokkas on Rottnest Island and with this itinerary, you will see a lot. We request that you refrain from feeding or touching them, especially at the settlement. After you get back on the ferry, it’s the locals that have to deal with the ill animals.

A Quokka is in the same marsupial family as the Kangaroo🦘 Its basically a combination of a kangaroo and a large rat but it got a great smile. It soared to fame with the hashtag #quokkaselfie which saw these cuties become Instagram famous without them even knowing.

They can only be found here in Western Australia, mainly on Rottnest Island. They have no natural predators so they are not scared of humans.

Quokka selfies are actually really hard to get. It involves you laying on the floor, in their poop and hoping it looks up. We’ve found the trick to it is if someone else holds a leaf above the camera, it will look up and you will get that award-winning smile on camera!

THEY SHOULD NOT BE FED HUMAN FOOD! We can not make this more clear! Their little bodies can not handle our food and it makes them sick. Unfortunately, we are witness to the ‘resident crack head quokkas’ around the shops.

These quokkas are addicted to sugar and are much more aggressive than the others on the island. We have even named one Mad Max that lives outside the bakery because he’s got so many battle scars.

What to bring for your Rottnest Island day trip

With some of the most beautiful beaches, clearest water and the best snorkelling we’ve ever seen, Rotto makes for the perfect beach day.

🥽 Snorkel and Flippers

👟 Shoes/clothes to cycle in – Bike shorts are your best friend!

🥾 Wet shoes to explore the rock pools and rough sea bed

🍻 Eske with some beers

🎶 Speaker for music in your room/beach/bike basket

How to get around on your Rottnest Island day trip

↠ The Island express bus 🚌  There are no vehicles on Rottnest Island

You can’t rely on Uber here I’m afraid. The only two ways of getting around are either on the Islands Hop on Hop Off Bus or to cycle. The bus is roughly $20 for the whole day and the best way to explore if the weather is too hot. This bus goes in a clockwise direction and is one way. It takes roughly around an hour to do a full loop on the bus.

↠  Rottnest Island bike hire 🚴

You can rent a bike (Helmets are mandatory) from the ferry companies which are roughly around $30. You can get an e-bike for $60 and $200 deposit. We would suggest bringing your own bike and LOCK, unfortunately, Rottnest is not immune from crime. This way you can save money on bike hire and you know you will have a good bike for the day.

Beware Rottnest is extremely hilly, so a medium level of fitness is recommended for cycling around the whole island. This takes a few hours to complete…not that we have managed to get that far!

TRAVEL TIP ↠ If you want to see lots of places and are only here for the day, we recommend just jumping on the bus and saving your self from exhaustion!

The Settlement

The Settlement is the only area of shops on the island.

• General store (IGA prices)
• Clothes Store👚
• The Lane Cafe ☕
• Frankie’s Italian🍕
• Thompsons and the Hotel.
• There is one more General store and cafe near Geordie Bay but that is it.

If you are headed out all day, please take enough drinking water as most of the drinking taps aren’t always working. As we are writing this blog post we are currently working at the Bakery so we have to include how good the Pies and coffee are!

You can’t come to Rotto without having got your self a morning pie for all the exercise you are about to do 🙂

Rottnest Island Day Trip – Our itinerary

Each stop we have listed is accessible via the Rottnest Island Explorer bus and by bicycle. We highly recommend following this route we have created, because if you aren’t already aware, Western Australia can become very windy in the afternoons.

This means that the south side of the island takes the force of this wind in the afternoon. The sea can become rough and the beaches slightly unpleasant. An example is pictured below, Salmon Bay which is on the Southside in the morning and afternoon.

Thomson Bay Rottnest – Stop 1 🥐

Your ferry will pull into Thompson bay and it is here where you can either hire a bike or purchase a day ticket for the bus. If you plan to cycle we suggest pre-booking your bike hire as you can be waiting for a while in the queue.

If you’re lazy like us, the bus you will need is called the Island explorer Hop on Hop Off ticket. This is $20 for the whole day and you can use it as many times throughout the day as possible. The bus drivers also sell bottles of water!

TRAVEL TIP ↠ Stock up on food and water in the Settlement as there is nothing around the island until you reach Geordie Bay.

Distance between Thomson Bay and Parker Point is 5KM’s

Parkers Point Rottnest  – Stop 2 🏊🏼‍♂️

(1 KM in-between ) 

Your first stop is one of the best places on the island for snorkelling. Parkers Point is a sheltered bay thanks to the limestone reef edge being so far away from the shoreline.

You will find stairs which lead down to a small beach where you can put on your snorkel and head out to explore the magical world under the sea. Parker point has a designated snorkel trail which is clearly marked out in the water with buoys. If you are on the Explorer Bus this is Bus Stop 5

Salmon Bay Rottnest Island- Stop 3

Once finished at Parkers Point head back up to the main road. Take a short walk to Salmon bay along the coastline to relax at our favourite beach. On the way look out for the huge Osprey nest on one of the rocky outcrops.

The water is still, the sand is soft and there is plenty of shade near the rocks. This is also home to some amazing underwater rock formations and holes to swim through! Salmon Bay is stop 6  on the bus route.

Distance between Salmon Bay and Wadjemup Lighthouse 3.3KM’s

Rottnest Island Lighthouse / Wadjemup Lighthouse –  Stop 4 💡

If you are on the bus jump off at Bus Stop 8 and follow the Wadjemup Walking Trail to reach the lighthouse entrance. Alternatively, those who are on bikes following the curving road up the hill to the top.

There are two lighthouses on Rottnest Island and this is the one you can enter and check out the 360-degree view of the island. (Opening times vary and there is a small entrance. Check all the up to date details at the visitors centre.)

TRAVEL TIP ↠ There is also a new Coffee Truck here called Lexi’s on Rotto

Distance between Wadjemup Lighthouse and The West End 6.4KM’s

The West End Rottnest – Stop 5 🎣

If you are on a tight schedule, you might want to give this one a miss. This stop is the furthest point of the island which can be one hell of a cycle. That being said we would highly recommend trying to see this stop if you can.

The landscape is dramatically different and there are some spectacular views. This stop has a boardwalk that looks out over the cliffs and you can look down into Fish Hook Bay.

As you walk back towards the Bus stop don’t forget to take the walking trail out the Cathedral Rocks viewing platform on the left. Here you can see New Zealand fur seals playing around in the water.

Distance between The West End and Geordie Bay 9.3KM’s

Keen to try out a boat trip on Rottnest? Check out our Rottnest Express Adventure Boat review here.

Geordie Bay Rottnest – Stop 6  ☕

You will pass several coves and beaches all of which are unique and have their own features. Once you arrive at Geordie Bay it’s time for a break.

Stop off at the Geordie Bay Cafe for some lunch or a coffee and rest your tired legs. This is Bus Stop 19 the last stop on the circular route.

Distance between Geordie Bay and Thompson Bay 2KM’s

Pink Lake Rottnest – Stop 7

Once you has left Geordie bay you will pass the famous Rottnest Island Pink lake on your right-hand side and Longreach bay on your left. The pink salt lake will only appear pink if there is enough water in it for the chemical reaction to occur.

It can get winding around the lake as the land is flat and exposed. Stick to the track next to Geordie Bay which provides shelter from the Western Australia winds in the afternoon.

The Basin Rottnest Island – Stop 8

The Basin on Rottnest Island is one of the most popular beach. Due to its close location to the settlement where you can find many of the shops and restaurants. The Basin makes for an ideal beach to visit for families with children.

The outer reef provides shelter on the beach and creates huge swimming area, these become extremely impressive at low tide when the water is crystal clear, shallow and warm. The Basin is the perfect place to practise your snorkelling, it doesn’t compare to other parts of the island such as Parkers Point, but its a great place to start.

There is also a toilet block, BBQ’s and picnic benches at the Basin.

Via Long Reach, The Basin, Pinky Beach and Bathurst Lighthouse.

Pinky Beach Rottnest – Stop 9 👙

Pinky beach is at the foot off Rottnest’s new Glamping experience, Discovery Rottnest Island Parks. Here you can relax on the beach or head into Pinkys for a drink and get the best view of sunset over the Bathurst Lighthouse.

You will be extremely sheltered from the wind and the bays themselves are nice and calm.

Day Trip extras on Rottnest Island

Rottnest express adventure boat tour, what to expect on rottnest express adventure tour.

Expect to see lots of wildlife and learn a great deal about the history of the island. This tour is on an extremely safe boat which seats around 25-30 passengers. With 900 Horsepower, this vessel can get around the island in no time at all.

Weather permitted, this tour goes all around the island, focusing on the West End where the New Zealand fur seals have permanent residency. On our tour the swell was very big so we did fly through the air, and I did scream a few times. That being said, we felt very safe the whole time.

If you manage to get Dez the tour guide then you are very lucky. He made our tour hilarious and knows so much about the island as he is also a permanent resident on Rottnest Island.

Between September and November, is the season for Whale Watching on Rottnest Island. Get up close and personal with the planets largest creatures.

How much is the Rottnest Express Adventure Tour?

• $67 Per Person

You can purchase your ferry ticket + this trip for a total of $136.

What do I need to bring on the boat?

When getting on the vessel you are given a long rain poncho to stop you getting wet 🧥. You are likely to get wet on this tour so we advise you not to bring anything expensive which can be damaged.

The tour guide will give you the option to leave any bags in a safe area on the doc while you are on the trip. The boat does travel at high speeds and we got very cold while we were travelling between stops so we recommend a jumper.

If you get seasick then we advise you wear the travel sickness wrist bands or have a supply of ginger biscuits! During our tour we stopped to watch a huge pod of dolphins and the boat did rock enough to make a few people sick.

Things to know before you go

A few key point to check before you head out on the Rottnest Express boat tour. Whilst we do our best to keep times and dates up to date, we recommend checked with the tour operator in case departure times have changed.

• Operates daily departure is at 11.15 am between mid-September and late April, except Christmas Day.
• Departure Location is Berth 0, Main Jetty on Rottnest Island
• Tour duration is for 90 minutes.

Our personal opinion on Rottnest Island Boat Trips

Having lived on the island for a few months, we can safely say we would highly recommend this boat trip on Rottnest Island. It was the perfect balance of adventure, information and encounters with wild animals.

We absolutely loved being so close to the seals and then suddenly being surrounded by a pod of Dolphins. It was an amazing day and a great way to see the island’s coastline.

The guides made us feel safe, even if Milly was terrified during parts. However, they kept us at ease that we were perfectly safe. Dez was hilarious and we highly recommend doing the trip if he is working!

Rottnest Island Accommodation 🏠 

We would highly recommend spending a few days on Rottnest Island purely because there is so much to see here. We warn you, the accommodation is stuck in the past and looks like something from the ’80s but hopefully, you won’t be spending too much time in the room!

To see all the up to date prices for the accommodation on Rottnest Island Click on the accommodations below.

Rottnest Island Samphire Resort

The newest and most luxurious accommodation on the island. This resort is the perfect place to sit back, relax and watch the world go by. The rooms are modern and spacious. You have a choice of locations including poolside and beachfront.

Discovery Rottnest Eco Resort – Pinkys

Fyre festival meets Rottnest Island. Just kidding, its a brand new Eco Glamping experience on the island!

Probably the best place to stay if we are honest! With a bar, pool and multiple accesses to the beach from your doorstep.

Rottnest Karma resort

This was the top place to stay on Rottnest before the Discovery Eco Beach resort was built.

The accommodation is clean and serves its purpose but is dated. Located in the centre of Thompson bay next to the main shopping area it is in the perfect location for a short stay on the island.

Camping on Rottnest Island

Located close to the Main Settlement and just a short stroll from The Basin, one of the Island’s most famous beaches.

The campground offers:

43 non-powered sand-covered sites accommodating up to a maximum of 6 people and 2 tents

Ablution block

Modern communal camp kitchen with cooking facilities including 4 BBQ plates and troughs

Drones on Rottnest Island

Flying a drone without a permit is not permitted on Rottnest. The rangers and Police on the island will give you a fine if you are caught filming without a permit.

The application for the Drone permits can be found here . The application for one day is $50

Our Rottnest Island day trip Itinerary Conclusion

Once back in the main shopping area at Thomson’s Bay, there is still loads to see and do.

↠ Check out our Rottnest Island BEST BITS for all the best places to eat and watch the sunset.

We hope you enjoyed our itinerary for a day trip on Rottnest Island and found it usefully. If you are staying for longer or want to check out Rottnest Islands hidden Gems, then you can find them here .

Pin Our Rottnest Island day trip for Later!

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