Rottnest Island Tours






































































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We curate the best ways to experience
We partner with the best
All the best options, in one place
Book with complete peace of mind

Explore Rottnest Island, a car-free island paradise off the coast of Perth, on a scenic ferry ride or guided day tour. Cruise across the Indian Ocean, explore white-sand beaches and turquoise bays, cycle through coastal trails, and encounter the island’s famous quokkas in their natural habitat.

  • Distance from Perth: 19 km off the coast of Western Australia
  • Distance from Fremantle: 18 km offshore (closest mainland access point)
  • Distance from Hillarys Boat Harbour: 22 km offshore
  • Travel time: 25 minutes from Fremantle, 45–90 minutes from Perth, 45 minutes from Hillarys by high-speed ferry
  • Tour duration: Half-day to full-day experiences (4–8 hours typically on the island)
  • Meeting/drop-off point: Ferry departures from Perth (Barrack Street Jetty), Fremantle (B Shed or Northport), and Hillarys Boat Harbour; tours begin from the Rottnest Island Settlement
  • Key attractions: Quokkas, The Basin, Pinky Beach, Wadjemup Lighthouse, coastal cycling routes, snorkelling bays, and over 60 beaches and coves

What to expect from your Rottnest Island tour

Children crouching near quokkas on Rottnest Island during a guided bus tour.
Cyclists on Rottnest Island with ocean view, accessible via ferry from Perth or Fremantle.
Couple snorkeling in clear turquoise water at Rottnest Island, Australia.
Coastal view of Rottnest Island, Australia, with clear turquoise waters and a wooden staircase leading to the beach.
Rock formations and coastal view at Wadjemup, Rottnest Island.
Walkway leading to lighthouse on Rottnest Island at sunset.
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Scenic ferry rides across the Indian Ocean

Rottnest tours begin with a smooth, high-speed ferry journey from Perth, Fremantle, or Hillarys, offering coastal views and a relaxing start to your island escape.

Flexible ways to explore the island

Choose between cycling at your own pace, joining a guided bus tour, or combining both. Each option lets you experience Rottnest’s beaches, bays, and landmarks differently.

Up-close encounters with quokkas

One of the island’s biggest highlights is spotting quokkas in the wild, especially around the main settlement, where they roam freely and are easy to find.

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Beach-hopping across crystal-clear bays

Expect access to over 60 beaches and secluded coves, including favourites like The Basin and Pinky Beach, known for calm waters and great snorkelling conditions.

Guided insights and local storytelling

On guided tours, learn about Rottnest’s history, Aboriginal heritage, and unique ecosystem through expert commentary as you travel across the island.

Relaxed, car-free island atmosphere

With no private vehicles allowed, the island offers a peaceful, slow-paced environment where cycling, walking, and nature take centre stage, making every visit feel like a true getaway.

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Things to know before booking your Rottnest Island tour

  • Ferry tickets vs. guided tours vs. bundled experiences: All Rottnest Island tours include a round-trip ferry transfer from Perth, Fremantle, or Hillarys, along with island admission. You can choose a standard ferry ticket for self-guided exploration, or opt for tickets that include experiences like bike hire, guided bus tours, or activities as part of the package. Each option is sold as a complete experience, allowing you to pick how you want to explore the island in advance.
  • Bike hire vs. bus tours: Cycling is the most popular way to explore Rottnest, with a 22 km island loop offering access to beaches, bays, and viewpoints. Bike hire includes helmets and locks, and suits those comfortable riding moderate distances. Bus tours are a low-effort alternative, ideal for visitors who prefer a relaxed overview without physical exertion.
  • Tour duration & time commitment: Ferry journeys take 25–90 minutes depending on your departure point. Most visitors spend 4–8 hours on the island, making it a full-day experience. Half-day trips are possible but limit how much you can see, especially if you plan to cycle or visit multiple beaches.
  • Accessibility & physical effort: Ferry transfers and bus tours are low-effort and suitable for most travellers. Cycling requires moderate fitness, especially in windy conditions. Walking is easy around the main settlement, but exploring beyond it typically requires a bike or tour transport.
  • Visitor suitability & age considerations: Ferry transfers and bus tours are family-friendly and suitable for all ages. Bike hire is generally recommended for older children and adults comfortable with cycling. Some adventure activities like snorkelling or Segway tours may have age or safety requirements.
  • Meeting point & transport: Ferries depart from Perth (Barrack Street Jetty), Fremantle (B Shed or Northport), and Hillarys Boat Harbour. Visitors must check in at least 30 minutes before departure. On arrival, bike hire and tours begin near the main settlement. Hotel transfers are typically not included.
  • Weather & seasonal considerations: Rottnest experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Weather can impact sea conditions and cycling comfort, especially due to wind. Clear, calm days are best for snorkelling and beach visits, while summer months (Dec–Feb) are the busiest.

Your Rottnest Island tours explained

Tour typeDurationInclusionsTransfersPrice

Return ferry tickets

25–90 mins each way

Round-trip ferry, Rottnest Island admission fee, free time on the island

Departures from Perth, Fremantle, or Hillarys Boat Harbour

AUD $80–$150

Ferry + bike hire

Full day (4–8 hours on island)

Ferry transfers, bike hire, helmet & lock, island entry

Departures from Perth, Fremantle, or Hillarys Boat Harbour

AUD $110–$180

Ferry + guided bus tour

6–8 hours total (incl. 1.5–2 hr tour)

Ferry transfers, island bus tour, AC coach, live commentary, key landmark stops

Departures from Perth, Fremantle, or Hillarys Boat Harbour

AUD $140–$220

Adventure experiences (skydive, snorkelling, Segway)

2–4 hours (plus ferry time)

Ferry transfers, island entry, chosen activity (tandem skydive / snorkel gear / guided Segway tour), instructor or guide, safety gear

Ferry included; activities begin on the island

AUD $120–$400

Top things to see & do at Rottnest Island

Boats moored at Geordie Bay, Rottnest Island, with sandy beach and clear blue water.

Meet the quokkas

Spot Rottnest’s famous quokkas roaming freely around the main settlement, one of the easiest places in Australia to see wildlife up close.

Wadjemup Lighthouse on Rottnest Island with surrounding landscape and ocean.
People on Segways during a tour on Rottnest Island, passing historic buildings.
Couple with bicycles on Rottnest Island beach, Western Australia.
Seaplane flying over turquoise waters near Rottnest Island, Australia.

What to expect on the day of your Rottnest Island experience

Plan your visit

Tips

  • Start early: The first ferry gives you cooler weather, quieter beaches, and more time to explore
  • Pre-book bikes or tours: Same-day availability is limited, especially in peak season
  • Don’t underestimate distances: Rottnest is bigger than it looks; plan stops in clusters
  • Mix transport modes: Combine cycling with the island shuttle or a short bus tour to cover more ground comfortably
  • Head beyond Thomson Bay: Some of the best beaches are quieter and further out
  • Carry water and sun protection: Shade is limited across most of the island
  • Build in buffer time: Leave enough margin to return bikes and catch your ferry stress-free
  • If short on time: Prioritise a loop covering Pinky Beach, Wadjemup Lighthouse, and a couple of west-end bays for the best variety.

Frequently asked questions about Rottnest Island tours

Most tours include round-trip ferry transfers, island admission, and optional add-ons like bike hire, guided bus tours, or segway experiences.

Which departure point is right for you