Your visit to the state’s capital and the largest city will never be complete without dropping by this wonderful island, offering the very best island adventure. Rottnest Island is an A-class reserve located just 30 minutes by boat from Fremantle and is a top destination in Perth because of its teeming marine life, pristine bay, white sand beaches, and absolutely Instagram-worthy sceneries.
So, if you’re looking for an exclusive weekend island getaway in Perth, Rottnest Island is an obligatory location you should definitely go to.
To get you started, below is everything you need to know about the Rotto.
Getting There
Both air and sea are open to reaching this island of wonders. From Fremantle, Rottnest Island is just a ferry ride onboard either of the SeaLink Rottnest Island, Rottnest Fast Ferries, or Rottnest Express. These ferries also offer different tour packages to get you to the island and even help you make the most while you’re at it.
Up in the air, you can also get to Rottnest, riding either the Rottnest Air-Taxi, Kookaburra Air, or the Corsaire Aviation.
Once you’re on the island, you can tour around on bikes or air-conditioned coaches which will bring you to several sightseeing spots around the island. Buses are also available to give you a ride back to the main strip once your day is done.
Rottnest Island Accommodation
Whether you want a premium accommodation overlooking breathtaking views of the ocean or you prefer a reasonably priced-cabin with still the best of the island views, Rottnest Island has every accommodation option that fits your preference and budget.
For a more Premium stay, you can choose from Standard holiday units giving you a direct view of the water, or Premium, which places you near the beach and has more spacious rooms. Other rooms in this accommodation have a verandah facing the ocean, and one located where the colonial settlement in the late 1800s used to be. For couples, the Island Couple’s Retreat is a romantic accommodation perfect for dates and honeymoon.
For Budget Accommodation, you can pick from the cozy, cedar-clad Caroline Thomson Cabins, the charming Governors Circle perfect for schools and group accommodation, the camp destination Kingstown Dormitories, and the original holiday bungalows.
If you’re feeling a little boujee and prefer resort-style accommodation, the island’s newest Samphire Resort should definitely be your choice of stay. In the heart of Thomson Bay, Samphire offers a luxe, relaxed coastal vibe. Hang poolside or set off on an adventure, this resort is a must-visit destination when visiting the island.
For other hotel and resort accommodations, you can browse from Discovery Rottnest Island, Karma Rottnest, and Rottnest Hostel.
Sights and Island Activities
Starting from the sandy ground, deep into the dazzling blue ocean, and everything in between, Rottnest Island is a whole package for everything in a sight-seeing escapade, packed with thrilling activities to keep your senses occupied.
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Skydiving for an unforgettable entrance
To arrive at the island, why not take your ride to the next level – around 10, 000 to 15, 000 ft up in the air perhaps? If you have no heart ailment and up is the way to go, then Skydiving Perth can give you an epic entrance to the equally epic island through skydiving.
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Water Adventure down the Shore
With 63 secluded beaches and 20 bays, you’ll be spoilt for choice on where to perch up for a day in the sun. There are tons of aqua activities if you’re into that – including swimming, diving, fishing, snorkeling, and surfing. If you lean more on just enjoying the views, The Basin, Little Parakeet Bay, Little Salmon Bay, and Geordie Bay offer the best spots.
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Meet and Greet with the Wildlife
Take note, a trip to the island won’t be complete without your selfie with the island’s cutest residents – the Quokka! These wonderful little creatures are natives of the island and will always be ready to take a fab selfie with you.
Apart from the rich Flora and Fauna at West End, Osprey Nests can also be found in the area as osprey’s return to the island to mate and lay eggs every year.
Also at the west end, thousands of Humpback and Southern Right whales linger especially during migrating seasons. The most recommended time for their viewing is in April when they head north for feeding, and when they return from September to December.
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Relax
You may be on the island for a weekend getaway aimed at relaxing and exploring, but your body is sure to get sore from all the island activities you try to make the most of your island visit. Well, there’s no need to worry because right at the Thomson Bay Settlement, you’ll find Karma Rottnest Day Spa, giving you a sumptuous sense of place. Inside the Apothecary Massage Bar, you can relax, de-stress, activate, meditate, and boost your energy, so you can fully enjoy touring the island and diving into more island adventures.
