Top Things to Do in Rottnest Island

Make the most of your day on Rottnest Island

Just 19 km off the coast of Perth, Rottnest Island (Wadjemup) is a pristine A-class nature reserve where turquoise bays, quirky wildlife, and rich Noongar heritage meet. With 63 beaches, world-famous quokkas, and car-free roads, this island is a playground for snorkelers, cyclists, and culture lovers. Whether you’re chasing adventure or a sun-soaked escape, Rottnest delivers the ultimate day trip or weekend getaway.

Meet the friendly locals: Quokka encounters

Where to find quokkas

The Settlement: Near Thomson Bay's shops and cafes.
Wadjemup Lighthouse: At the island's highest point.
Vlamingh Lookout: Accessible via walking trails.
Bathurst Lighthouse: A quieter spot for relaxed viewings.

Note: The best viewing times are early morning and late afternoon, though the quokkas are around all day.

Respecting the quokkas

No feeding: Feeding quokkas is illegal and can result in fines up to AU$300.
No touching: Physical contact is prohibited to protect you and the quokkas.
Photography: Take photos from a distance without using flash.

Stay on paths: To preserve their natural habitat.

Local legends

Called Bangup by Noongar people, "smiling rats" by locals.
Shade seekers, they nap under bikes, benches, and even under your hat.
Island legend says they’re clever snack thieves who never miss a free meal.
They don’t smile for photos–they’re sniffing for snacks! – a Rottnest guide.

Swim, snorkel & sunbathe across 63 beaches

With 63 beaches and 20 bays, Rottnest is teeming with coastal gems to explore. Calm coves or reef-filled waters, there’s a spot for every mood. Some of its top beaches are:

The Basin: Calm, shallow waters perfect for families and first-timers.
Pinky Beach: Soft sand and great conditions for Rottnest Island snorkelling.
Little Salmon Bay: Part of a protected marine reserve with vibrant coral.
Parakeet Bay: Clear, quiet, and ideal for laid-back beach time.
Strickland Bay: One of Western Australia’s best surf breaks.

Book the 90-minute Eco Express Boat Tour to see the island's coastline

Best snorkeling & diving spots

Rottnest is part of a protected marine reserve with coral reefs, shipwrecks, and diverse marine life. You can pick your spot to snorkel or dive based on your preference and skill level.

Spot

Skill level

Highlights

The Basin

Beginner

Calm waters teeming with fish.

Parker Point

Beginner

Easy access to coral gardens.

Little Salmon Bay

Intermediate

Diverse coral formations.

Shark Wreck

Advanced

Sunken boat attracting marine life.

Cape Vlamingh

Expert

Strong currents; dramatic drop-offs.

Cycle, walk, or tour | Rottnest Island land activities

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Cycling

Hire a standard or Rottnest Island electric bike to ride the island’s 22km of car-free roads.

Walking trails

Wander the Wadjemup Bidi, five scenic paths covering 45km of coastline and heritage sites.

Segway tours

Go for fun and relaxed guided rides along the coast or through bushland.

Quokka Coaches

Hop on and off these shuttles to major stops across the island.

Guided bus tours

Perfect for those who are short on time but big on sightseeing.

Step into stories: Key cultural sites & tours

Beyond the beaches, the island has a rich and layered history, from Noongar heritage to colonial military stories. Here are some:

Wadjemup Lighthouse: Climb for sweeping 360° views of the island and reef.
Captain Hussey's historical train ride: A vintage rail trip out to Oliver Hill
Bickley Battery Heritage Trail: Take an easy walk past old bunkers and WWII sites.
Wadjemup Museum: Dive into Noongar culture, island settlement, and natural history.
Henrietta Rocks: See the Shark wreck and snorkel around the coral-covered remains.

Book the Rottnest Island Grand Tour to see these sites

Plan smart with tips for visiting

The best time for Rottnest Island snorkelling is late summer, when water visibility is at its peak.
See quokkas in the early morning or around sunset when they're most active.
Avoid the crowds by visiting midweek or during the shoulder months (March–May and September–November).
Book ahead in peak season as ferries, Rottnest Island attractions, and gear rentals often sell out.
Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and swimwear, as you’ll spend most time outdoors.