Rottnest Island Tours
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Plan your visit to Rottnest Island

Organizing your visit 

Rottnest Island is a full-day escape and an A-class reserve best known for its famously cheerful residents, the quokkas. Located just 30 km off Perth’s coastline in Western Australia, this car-free island is rich in cultural and natural history. The only way to get there is by ferry, and once you arrive, you can spend the entire day exploring its beaches, bays, trails, and wildlife with family or friends. Here’s how to plan the perfect visit to this laid-back island paradise.

Rottnest Express ferry leaving jetty with cars and buildings in Fremantle, Australia.

Pick your ferry terminal

You can reach Rottnest Island from three ferry terminals: Perth, Hillarys, and Fremantle. Departing from Perth gives you a scenic 90-minute Swan River cruise, Fremantle is the fastest at 25–30 minutes, and Hillarys offers a relaxed 45-minute northern departure.

Tourists swimming at a beach on Rottnest Island with a lighthouse in the distance.

Spend a full day on the island

Rottnest is built for slow, easy exploring. Your tour includes island admission, and you can add a bike hire, bus tour, or segway ride to shape your day. Ride between beaches, stop at lookout points, meet quokkas, and take breaks for a swim or a relaxed lunch. With no cars on the island, everything feels calmer, giving you plenty of space to explore at your own pace.

Rottnest Express ferry docked at a pier in clear blue water.

Return trip by evening

After a full day on the island, head back to your chosen jetty for the return ferry. Your ticket will show your departure time, so arrive 15–20 minutes early. Once onboard, settle in and enjoy a smooth ride back to Perth, Fremantle, or Hillarys.

Things to know before you book Rottnest Island tours

  • Decide between a guided experience or DIY: Guided bus and segway tours take you to the island’s main lookouts and beaches with minimal planning, while ferry-only tickets give you full freedom but require you to manage routes, rentals, and timing on your own.
  • Duration of the tour: Most day trips give you around 7 hours on the island, which is enough time to see the two lighthouses, explore several beaches and bays, and enjoy a relaxed loop at your own pace.
  • Meeting the friendly quokkas: A big highlight is spending time around the island’s cheerful residents. Quokkas often wander close, making for great photos, but remember that touching or feeding them is strictly prohibited.
  • Check if bike hire or transport is included: If you prefer not to walk long distances, look for packages that include bike hire, segway tour, or an Island Explorer Bus pass so you can move around easily.
  • Spike your adrenaline: You can also add a skydive to your day. Jumps from around 10,000 ft give sweeping views of Rottnest and Western Australia’s coastline. After landing, you'll get time to explore the island before your evening ferry.
  • Check seasonal schedules: Ferry times and guided tour availability change between summer and winter. Morning departures sell out quickly in peak season and give you the most daylight to explore.

Getting to Rottnest Island

Like we said, the only way to reach Rottnest Island is by ferry from either Perth, Hillarys or Fremantle.

Barrack Street Jetty Terminal with docked tour boats in Perth, Australia.

From Perth

  • Departure point: Ferries leave from the Barrack Street Jetty (also called Elizabeth Quay), located in central Perth's CBD.
  • Ferry operator: The main ferry service on this route is the Rottnest Express.
  • Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (90 minutes).
  • Frequency: There is about 1 daily ferry departure from Perth to Rottnest Island, with up to 12 sailings weekly starting around 8.45am or 9am.
  • Return trips: Around 5pm

​Book Rottnest Island return ferry from Perth

Fremantle Harbour with boats docked and waterfront buildings, Australia.

From Fremantle

  • Departure point: Ferries to Rottnest Island depart from the Fremantle Passenger Terminal located on Victoria Quay in the port city of Fremantle.
  • Ferry operators: Multiple operators run services from Fremantle, including Rottnest Express and SeaLink.
  • Duration: Takes around 25 to 30 minutes, significantly shorter than the Perth route.
  • Frequency: Varies by season but on an average 6 daily sailings generally starting early morning around 7am.
  • Return trips: Late afternoon around 6pm

​Book Rottnest Island return ferry from Fremantle

Aerial view of Hillarys Boat Harbour marina with yachts and waterfront buildings, Australia.

From Hillarys

  • Departure point: Ferries to Rottnest Island depart from Hillarys Boat Harbour, located about 25 kilometers north of Perth's city center.
  • Ferry operators: The primary operator from Hillarys is Rottnest Fast Ferries.
  • Duration: The ferry ride takes approximately 45 to 50 minutes, offering a mid-length journey compared to other routes.
  • Frequency: There are generally 4 to 5 daily sailings, with departures starting around 7:30am and continuing through the early afternoon.
  • Return trips: Return services usually operate until late afternoon, with the last ferry departing around 5:30pm.

​Book Rottnest Island return ferry from Hillarys

Must see on Rottnest Island

Aerial view of Bathurst Lighthouse on Rottnest Island with surrounding greenery and coastline.

The lighthouses

Rottnest’s two historic lighthouses, Wadjemup and Bathurst, give you sweeping views of the island’s coastline. They help you understand the island’s maritime past while offering some of the best lookout points.

Clear waters and rocky shoreline at The Basin, Rottnest Island with a distant lighthouse.
Tourists smiling with a quokka on Rottnest Island, bicycles and beach in background.
Swimmers enjoying clear waters at Little Salmon Bay, Rottnest Island, with rocky cliffs in the background.
Coastal view of Rottnest Island, Australia, with clear turquoise waters and a wooden staircase leading to the beach.

How to get around in Rottnest Island

Woman enjoying ocean view from Rottnest Island lookout.
  • Time: Short strolls near Thomson Bay take 10–20 minutes, while sections of the 45 km Wadjemup Bidi can take 1–4 hours depending on the route.
  • Cost: Free
  • Best for: Walkers who enjoy coastal viewpoints, wildlife encounters, and choosing flexible trail lengths without needing transport.
  • Cons: Some trails are exposed to sun and wind, with long gaps between facilities; the West End has rugged terrain and limited shade.
Tourists walking near a bus on Rottnest Island with coastal scenery in the background.
  • Time: The guided bus tour runs for about 1 hour 45 minutes with an English-speaking guide, taking you past major highlights such as the lighthouses, WWII tunnels, and coastal viewpoints.
  • Cost: AU$140, which includes island admission and a return ferry from Perth, Fremantle, or Hillarys.
  • Best for: Families planning a relaxed picnic day and travelers who want to learn about the island’s history without walking long distances.
  • Cons: Afternoon departures can feel a bit rushed for visitors who need to be back early for their return ferry.

​Book your bus tour now

Tourists on Segways at Rottnest Island beach with ocean view.
  • Time: The tour lasts for one hour starting from the Main Settlement and covering scenic parts of the island.
  • Cost: AU$184 including island admission and return ferry to Perth, Fremantle or Hillarys
  • Best for: Great for visitors who want a fun, eco-friendly way to explore the island without much physical exertion; suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
  • Cons: Requires basic balance and coordination. Not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with certain mobility issues.

​Book your segway tour now

Couple on bikes overlooking the ocean on Rottnest Island, part of the ferry and adventure boat tour.
  • Time: You get full flexibility with bikes. Rent it for as long as you are on the island.
  • Cost: AU$120 including helmet, security lock, island admission and return ferry to Perth, Fremantle or Hillarys.
  • Best for: Ideal for visitors who want to cover extensive parts of the island at their own pace; suitable for all fitness levels especially with electric bikes available.
  • Cons: Requires basic cycling ability. Some hilly or sandy terrains can be challenging. Limited availability during peak season without prior booking.

​Book a Rottnest Island ferry and bike day trip

More things to do on Rottnest Island (if you have the time)

Rottnest Island coastal gun with ocean view in Fremantle, Australia.
Tandem skydive over Rottnest Island, Perth, with aerial view of coastline and landscape below.
Snorkelers exploring clear waters near Rottnest Island's coastline on a sunny day.
Boat in turquoise waters of Fish Hook Bay, Rottnest Island, with rocky coastline.
Lookout view of rocky coastline and ocean at Cape Vlamingh, Rottnest Island.
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Oliver Hill Tunnels and Gun Emplacements

Oliver Hill’s WWII tunnels and gun emplacement take you deep into the island’s military history. You can walk through underground corridors, see the restored 9.2-inch gun, and learn how Rottnest defended Western Australia. Guided tours add context and bring the stories to life.

Tandem skydive

A tandem skydive over Rottnest Island gives you a front-row view of its turquoise bays, white beaches, and reefs from more than 10,000 feet. After the freefall, glide down over the coastline and explore the island at your own pace.

​Book a skydive experience now

Go snorkeling

Go snorkeling in Rottnest’s clear bays and shallow reefs, especially spots like Parker Point and Little Salmon Bay. Calm waters, bright coral, and plenty of marine life make it an easy and rewarding experience for both first-timers and confident swimmers.

Fish Hook Bay Lookout

Fish Hook Bay Lookout gives you one of the island’s most dramatic viewpoints. The bay’s perfect hook shape, turquoise water, and rugged cliffs make it a standout stop for photos, coastal views, and a quiet moment away from the busier beaches.

Vlamingh Lookout

Go here for wide, elevated views across Rottnest’s salt lakes, coastline, and rolling dunes. It’s an easy stop on a bike or walk, giving you a clear sense of the island’s size, landscapes, and early Dutch exploration history.

Where to eat on Rottnest Island?

Homemade rigatoni pasta with tomato sauce and mint garnish, Italian cuisine.

Isola Bar e Cibo

  • Where it is: Corner Bedford Ave &, Colebatch Ave, Rottnest Island WA 6161, Australia [View on map →]
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Rating: 4.6/5
  • Price point: $$
  • Must-try: Prawns in burnt butter sauce, Rigatoni Pasta
Salmon tostada with poached egg and hollandaise sauce on a plate.

Dome Cafe

  • Where it is: Colebatch Ave, Rottnest Island WA 6161, Australia [View on map →]
  • Cuisine: Café, Coffee, Casual Dining
  • Rating: 4.3/5
  • Price point: $
  • Must-try: Freshly brewed coffee, Homemade cakes, Breakfast burrito, Salmon Eggs Florentine
Hands holding fresh oysters on a plate with lemon wedges on a wooden table.

Lontara

  • Where it is: McCallum Ave, Rottnest Island WA 6161, Australia [View on map →]
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Rating: 4.2/5
  • Price point: $$
  • Must-try: Samphire Continental Breakfast, Oysters, Tofu, Fried Prawn Spring Roll
Seafood platter with shrimp and lemon at a beachside table.

Frankie's on Rotto

  • Where it is: 342 Somerville Dr, Rottnest Island WA 6161, Australia [View on map →]
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Rating: 4.4/5
  • Price point: $$
  • Must-try: Hawaiian Pizza, Seafood Platter, Grilled Salmon Salad

Tips from locals

  • Catch the earliest ferry to beat bike-hire queues and get quieter beaches before day-trippers arrive.
  • Refill water at Thomson Bay before heading west; taps get sparse once you move toward Wadjemup or the West End.
  • Grab a sandwich or pastry at the bakery before you set off cycling so you can picnic at a quiet bay without needing to loop back to the settlement.
  • Ride anticlockwise if you're biking; the hills feel gentler and you get better morning light along Parker Point and Salmon Bay.
  • Stop at lookout points and not just beaches. People have loved Jubilee Observation Point and Vlamingh Lookout for the views and breeze.
  • Give quokkas space especially near the settlement at dusk. They’re curious but easily stressed, and fines apply for touching or feeding them.
  • Essential contacts
    • Rottnest Island Visitor Centre: +61 8 9372 9730
    • Emergency: Dial 000
  • What to bring: Mobile ticket, sunscreen, hat, refillable water bottle, swimwear, good walking shoes, and cash/card (most places are card-friendly).

Frequently asked questions about visiting Rottnest Island

What’s the best time of year to visit Rottnest Island?

Spring (Sept–Nov) and autumn (Mar–May) are ideal. Mild weather, fewer crowds, and active wildlife.

Do I need to book my ferry and accommodation in advance?

Yes! Especially during peak seasons. Both tend to sell out quickly.

Is Rottnest Island suitable for kids?

Absolutely. The island has calm beaches, safe bike paths, and wildlife to discover.

Are there ATMs and shops on the island?

Yes, you’ll find general stores, cafes, restaurants, and ATMs at the main settlement.

Can I bring my own bike or snorkel gear?

Yes, you can bring your gear on the ferry (some fees may apply). Rental options are also available on the island.

How early should I arrive for the ferry?

Aim for 25–30 minutes before departure, especially from Perth on busy weekends. Boarding closes earlier than you think and morning ferries fill up first.

What’s the safest way to interact with quokkas?

Stay still, let them approach, and keep food out of sight. You'll be fined for touching or feeding them, and rangers monitor the Settlement closely.

Can I explore the West End without a bike?

Yes, but it’s a long walk. Locals suggest using the hop-on hop-off bus or joining a guided bus tour if you want to reach remote lookouts like Cathedral Rocks or Fish Hook Bay.

What’s the best time to avoid crowds at popular beaches?

Go early in the morning or after 3pm. Locals head to The Basin and Pinky Beach before 10am, then shift to quieter spots like Little Parakeet Bay or Henrietta Rocks as day-trippers peak.