How do I get to Rottnest Island?

You can take a ferry from Perth, Fremantle or Hillarys. Fremantle is the fastest crossing at around 25–30 minutes, while the journey from Perth can take up to 90 minutes.

How long do I need at Rottnest Island?

A half-day is enough for a quick visit around Thomson Bay and nearby beaches. A full day is better for first-time visitors who want to combine cycling, beaches, wildlife and sightseeing.

Can I visit Rottnest Island without a tour?

Yes. You can book a ferry-only ticket and explore independently by bike, on foot or using island transport.

What is the best way to get around Rottnest Island?

Cycling is the most flexible option for covering more of the island. Guided bus tours are better if you want comfortable sightseeing without the physical effort of cycling.

Where can I see quokkas?

Quokkas are commonly spotted around Thomson Bay and the main settlement, although they roam freely across the island.

Is Rottnest Island suitable for children?

Yes. The island has beaches, wildlife and shorter walking routes suitable for families. Some activities, including Segway tours and skydiving, have specific age or safety requirements.

Do I need to book Rottnest Island tours in advance?

It is recommended, particularly during peak periods. Ferry tickets, bikes and popular tours can have limited same-day availability.

What should I bring to Rottnest Island?

Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, comfortable footwear and swimwear if you plan to visit the beaches. A light jacket is useful because coastal winds can pick up quickly.

Are meals included in Rottnest Island tours?

Meals are not generally included with standard ferry or island tours. Cafés, bakeries and casual dining options are available around Thomson Bay.

Is Rottnest Island wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility is partial. Ferries and some tours have accessible facilities, but parts of the island have uneven terrain and natural paths.

Can I see the major sights in one day?

Yes, with some planning. A bike or guided bus tour makes it easier to cover several beaches, wildlife spots and landmarks within a day.

Are Rottnest Island activities weather-dependent?

Some are. Ferry services generally operate in a range of conditions, but activities such as skydiving can be delayed or cancelled because of weather.

Can I touch or feed the quokkas?

No. You should not touch or feed quokkas. Keep a safe distance and let them move freely.

Do Rottnest Island tours include the ferry?

Many bundled experiences include round-trip ferry transfers and island admission. Ferry-only tickets are also available if you prefer to arrange your activities separately.

Which ferry departure point should I choose?

Choose **Fremantle** for the shortest crossing, **Hillarys** if you're staying north of Perth, or **Perth** if you want the longer journey with a Swan River component.

Top things to do in Perth

Rottnest Island Tours

Discover Rottnest Island’s best with guided tours, scenic bike hires, thrilling skydives, and even luxury seafood cruises. With ferry transfers from Perth, Fremantle, and Hillarys, you can explore the island’s beaches, history, and underwater beauty with ease. Perfect for all types of adventurers, Rottnest Island has something for everyone.

4.7/5

2,224 travellers from around the world love this

Slide 1 of 8, Tourists on a bus tour at Rottnest Island with coastline view, Perth or Fremantle return ferry.

Tourists on a ferry near Rottnest Island with coastline view, part of the guided bus tour.

Tourists smiling with a quokka on Rottnest Island, bicycles and beach in background.

Lighthouse on Pink Beach, Rottnest Island, with clear blue water and sandy shore.

Tourists walking near a bus on Rottnest Island with coastal scenery in the background.

Walkway leading to lighthouse on Rottnest Island at sunset.

Quokka on Rottnest Island with ocean and boats in the background.

Aerial view of Rottnest Island's coastline with clear turquoise waters and rocky shoreline.

From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Guided Bus Tour with Return Ferry

7 hrs 30 mins - 8 hrs

Transfers available

1 more

Travel from Fremantle with round-trip ferry transfers and entry to Rottnest Island, starting your guided bus adventure seamlessly.
Enjoy a 1-hour 45-minute bus tour with live commentary, covering iconic beaches, bays, wildlife, and hidden island gems.
Stop at Thomson Bay or Cape Vlamingh to see friendly quokkas, perfect for selfies and up-close wildlife encounters.
View The Basin’s natural swimming pool and drive along scenic beaches, bays, and cliffs with optional short photo stops.
Upgrade to a guided tour WWII tunnels at Oliver Hill, ride the Captain Hussey Train, and enjoy a light lunch with sandwich, cookie, and water.

More details

Travel from Fremantle with round-trip ferry transfers and entry to Rottnest Island, starting your guided bus adventure seamlessly.
Enjoy a 1-hour 45-minute bus tour with live commentary, covering iconic beaches, bays, wildlife, and hidden island gems.
Stop at Thomson Bay or Cape Vlamingh to see friendly quokkas, perfect for selfies and up-close wildlife encounters.
View The Basin’s natural swimming pool and drive along scenic beaches, bays, and cliffs with optional short photo stops.
Upgrade to a guided tour WWII tunnels at Oliver Hill, ride the Captain Hussey Train, and enjoy a light lunch with sandwich, cookie, and water.

from

AU$128

Slide 1 of 12, Rottnest Express ferry creating a wake, with Rottnest Island and lighthouse visible in the distance.

Two people snorkeling with yellow fins in clear water at Rottnest Island.

Woman and child cycling on a tree-lined path on Rottnest Island, Western Australia.

Ferry boat on Swan River with Perth city skyline in background.

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

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

Couple snorkeling in clear turquoise water at Rottnest Island, Australia.

Couple with bicycles on Rottnest Island beach, Western Australia.

Bus on coastal road with ocean view, Rottnest Island tour, Western Australia.

Group cycling towards Wadjemup Lighthouse on Rottnest Island, Western Australia.

Red and white Rottnest Express ferry cruising through blue ocean waters.

From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Return Ferry with Bike or Bus Tour Options

8 hrs

Transfers available

Explore Rottnest Island with round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle, island entry, and up to 7 hours of self-guided exploration.
Spot friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, then cool off at The Basin’s natural swimming pool, best enjoyed before 11am.
Climb 38 m to Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic views and explore WWII tunnels and historic gun fortifications at Oliver Hill Battery.
Upgrade your self-guided Rottnest experience with bike hire, snorkel hire, or a guided bus tour for a richer island experience.

More details

Explore Rottnest Island with round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle, island entry, and up to 7 hours of self-guided exploration.
Spot friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, then cool off at The Basin’s natural swimming pool, best enjoyed before 11am.
Climb 38 m to Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic views and explore WWII tunnels and historic gun fortifications at Oliver Hill Battery.
Upgrade your self-guided Rottnest experience with bike hire, snorkel hire, or a guided bus tour for a richer island experience.

from

AU$66

Slide 1 of 12, Ferry cruising on clear blue waters during Rottnest Island day trip from Fremantle.

Frankie's on Rotto lunch spread with pizza, pasta, and salads on a wooden table.

Customers selecting pastries at Rottnest Island bakery.

Children crouching near quokkas on Rottnest Island during a guided bus tour.

Bus on Rottnest Island near beach, part of guided tour from Perth or Fremantle.

Ferry traveling across turquoise waters to Rottnest Island from Perth or Fremantle.

Ferry approaching Rottnest Island with ocean view, part of the guided bus tour from Perth or Fremantle.

From Perth: Rottnest Island Guided Bus Tour with Return Ferry

7 hrs 30 mins - 9 hrs 30 mins

Transfers available

1 more

Kick off your Rottnest trip from central Perth with scenic ferry transfers and island entry.
Join a 1-hour 45-minute air-conditioned bus tour with live commentary, exploring beaches, bays, wildlife, and hidden island gems.
Stop at Thomson Bay or Cape Vlamingh to meet friendly quokkas, ideal for selfies and close-up encounters.
See The Basin’s natural swimming pool and take in views along secluded beaches, bays, and cliffs, with optional short stops.
Upgrade to a guided tour of Oliver Hill’s WWII tunnels, ride the Captain Hussey Train, and enjoy a light lunch with a sandwich, cookie, and bottled water.

More details

Kick off your Rottnest trip from central Perth with scenic ferry transfers and island entry.
Join a 1-hour 45-minute air-conditioned bus tour with live commentary, exploring beaches, bays, wildlife, and hidden island gems.
Stop at Thomson Bay or Cape Vlamingh to meet friendly quokkas, ideal for selfies and close-up encounters.
See The Basin’s natural swimming pool and take in views along secluded beaches, bays, and cliffs, with optional short stops.
Upgrade to a guided tour of Oliver Hill’s WWII tunnels, ride the Captain Hussey Train, and enjoy a light lunch with a sandwich, cookie, and bottled water.

from

AU$176

Slide 1 of 8, Snorkeler exploring underwater near Rottnest Island, Australia.

Woman snorkeling in clear waters at Rottnest Island, Australia.

Couple sitting on boat deck preparing for Rottnest Island snorkel cruise.

Fish swimming near coral reef during Rottnest snorkel tour.

Snorkeling woman holding float in clear waters at Rottnest Island.

Snorkeler exploring coral reef at Rottnest Island.

Snorkelers preparing gear on a boat near Rottnest Island's clear waters.

Snorkelers exploring coral reefs in Rottnest Island waters.

Rottnest Island Guided Snorkelling Tour: 9am Departure

3 hrs 30 mins

Explore Rottnest Island on a 3-hour guided snorkelling tour with two 45-minute sessions in calm, sheltered bays.
Swim alongside Rottnest’s underwater wildlife, with more than 400 fish species, 20 coral types, and multiple shipwrecks to discover.
Follow qualified in-water snorkel guides who share insights about Rottnest and provide flotation aids for less confident swimmers.
Enjoy a comfortable ride aboard a custom-built snorkelling vessel as you cruise between Rottnest’s scenic bays and snorkelling sites.
Keep things easy with snorkelling equipment and light refreshments included, with all experience levels welcome.

More details

Explore Rottnest Island on a 3-hour guided snorkelling tour with two 45-minute sessions in calm, sheltered bays.
Swim alongside Rottnest’s underwater wildlife, with more than 400 fish species, 20 coral types, and multiple shipwrecks to discover.
Follow qualified in-water snorkel guides who share insights about Rottnest and provide flotation aids for less confident swimmers.
Enjoy a comfortable ride aboard a custom-built snorkelling vessel as you cruise between Rottnest’s scenic bays and snorkelling sites.
Keep things easy with snorkelling equipment and light refreshments included, with all experience levels welcome.

from

AU$239

Slide 1 of 10, Tourists on a bus tour at Rottnest Island with coastline view, Perth or Fremantle return ferry.

Red bicycle on rocky shore with ocean in the background.

Couple cycling with ocean view on Rottnest Island, Western Australia.

Red bicycles on sandy beach with ocean in background, Rottnest Island, Western Australia.

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

From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Bike & Return Ferry Tour

8 hrs

Transfers available

Explore Rottnest Island with return ferry transfers from Fremantle, island entry, and a full-day bike hire to explore beaches and wildlife at your own pace.
Cycle past Thomson Bay, home to Rottnest’s famous quokkas, and enjoy plenty of chances for close-up encounters and photos.
Pedal to The Basin for a swim in calm turquoise waters, then continue inland to Wadjemup Lighthouse for 360° island views and maritime history.
Cycle to Oliver Hill Battery to explore WWII tunnels and gun emplacements, then follow marked trails linking hidden bays and historic sites at your own pace.

More details

Explore Rottnest Island with return ferry transfers from Fremantle, island entry, and a full-day bike hire to explore beaches and wildlife at your own pace.
Cycle past Thomson Bay, home to Rottnest’s famous quokkas, and enjoy plenty of chances for close-up encounters and photos.
Pedal to The Basin for a swim in calm turquoise waters, then continue inland to Wadjemup Lighthouse for 360° island views and maritime history.
Cycle to Oliver Hill Battery to explore WWII tunnels and gun emplacements, then follow marked trails linking hidden bays and historic sites at your own pace.

from

AU$105

Slide 1 of 10, Small red boat in turquoise water near a lighthouse and island.

Rottnest Express ferry approaching jetty in turquoise waters, Rottnest Island.

Lighthouse on coastal headland at sunset with ocean and pink sky.

Red boat making a 360-degree turn, creating a white wake in turquoise water.

Red tour boat in turquoise water near rocky coastline.

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

From Perth: Rottnest Island Return Ferry with Swan River Commentary

9 hrs 30 mins

Transfers available

Explore Rottnest Island with round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle, island entry, and up to 7 hours of self-guided exploration.
Enjoy up-close quokka encounters at Thomson Bay and cool off in The Basin before crowds arrive.
Take in Rottnest Island from Wadjemup Lighthouse, then learn history at Oliver Hill Battery with its tunnels and fortifications.
Upgrade your experience with bike hire to explore Rottnest at your own pace, or join the guided bus tour for wildlife and history.

More details

Explore Rottnest Island with round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle, island entry, and up to 7 hours of self-guided exploration.
Enjoy up-close quokka encounters at Thomson Bay and cool off in The Basin before crowds arrive.
Take in Rottnest Island from Wadjemup Lighthouse, then learn history at Oliver Hill Battery with its tunnels and fortifications.
Upgrade your experience with bike hire to explore Rottnest at your own pace, or join the guided bus tour for wildlife and history.

from

AU$114

Slide 1 of 12, Ferry departing Rottnest Island towards Perth or Fremantle across the ocean.

Quokka on sandy beach at Rottnest Island with ocean in background.

Ferry to Rottnest Island with tourists on deck, coastline visible in background.

Kingstown Barracks building with red brick and white trim on Rottnest Island, Australia.

From Hillarys: Rottnest Island Return Ferry

Explore at your pace

1 more

Sail from Hillarys and enjoy Rottnest Island with round-trip ferry transfers, entry, and several hours to explore.
Meet friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, then swim or relax at The Basin, best in the morning.
Ascend 38 m Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic vistas, then visit Oliver Hill Battery’s historic gun emplacements.
Choose bike hire or a guided bus tour to make the most of your Hillarys-to-Rottnest adventure.

More details

Sail from Hillarys and enjoy Rottnest Island with round-trip ferry transfers, entry, and several hours to explore.
Meet friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, then swim or relax at The Basin, best in the morning.
Ascend 38 m Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic vistas, then visit Oliver Hill Battery’s historic gun emplacements.
Choose bike hire or a guided bus tour to make the most of your Hillarys-to-Rottnest adventure.

from

AU$95

Slide 1 of 12, Snorkelers in clear waters near rocky shore, Perth/Fremantle tour.

Ferry docked at Fremantle for snorkel tour to Rottnest Island.

Cyclists overlooking ocean view on Rottnest Island, part of Perth snorkel tour.

Couple walking towards Rottnest Island tour bus with snorkel gear.

Snorkeling with a sea lion underwater near Perth, Australia.

Snorkel tour boat near rocky coastline and beach, Perth/Fremantle.

Snorkel tour boat near Rottnest Island lighthouse, turquoise waters, Perth/Fremantle.

Snorkeling boats anchored in a bay near Perth with coastal landscape.

Snorkel tour boats in turquoise waters near rocky coastline, Perth/Fremantle.

Ferry cruising on blue waters near Perth with a sailboat and lighthouse in the background.

Snorkel tour boat cruising in turquoise waters near Perth/Fremantle.

Tourists observing a seal on rocky shore during Perth snorkel tour.

From Perth/ Fremantle: Rottnest Island Snorkel Tour with Return Ferry

Explore at your pace

1 more

Explore Rottnest Island with round-trip ferry transfers, snorkel gear, and optional bike hire for a flexible land-and-sea adventure.
Cruise from Perth or Fremantle, with Perth departures including a scenic Swan River journey and onboard commentary.
Snorkel in Rottnest’s crystal-clear bays, spotting vibrant marine life and coral reefs at spots like The Basin and Parakeet Bay.
Upgrade to include bike hire with helmet and lock, making it easy to explore more of Rottnest Island at your own pace.

More details

Explore Rottnest Island with round-trip ferry transfers, snorkel gear, and optional bike hire for a flexible land-and-sea adventure.
Cruise from Perth or Fremantle, with Perth departures including a scenic Swan River journey and onboard commentary.
Snorkel in Rottnest’s crystal-clear bays, spotting vibrant marine life and coral reefs at spots like The Basin and Parakeet Bay.
Upgrade to include bike hire with helmet and lock, making it easy to explore more of Rottnest Island at your own pace.

from

AU$128

Slide 1 of 9, Segway riders on Rottnest Island near a coastal lighthouse.

Person smiling with a quokka on Rottnest Island during a ferry and adventure boat tour.

Segway tour group exploring Rottnest Island coast with ocean view.

People on Segways during a tour on Rottnest Island, passing historic buildings.

Boats docked at a pier on Rottnest Island, Australia, with sandy beach and clear blue water.

Ferry to Rottnest Island departing from Perth, with passengers on deck.

From Perth/Fremantle: Rottnest Island Segway Tour with Return Ferry

7 hrs 58 mins - 9 hrs 25 mins

1 more

Board your ferry from Perth or Fremantle, enjoy island entry, and kick off a guided Segway adventure.
Glide Rottnest’s coastline on a segway tour, led by an experienced guide with headset commentary.
Spot friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay and glide along Rottnest’s coastline, passing beaches, bays, and scenic viewpoints.
Pick your ferry departure—Perth for a longer scenic ride, or Fremantle for a shorter, quicker crossing.

More details

Board your ferry from Perth or Fremantle, enjoy island entry, and kick off a guided Segway adventure.
Glide Rottnest’s coastline on a segway tour, led by an experienced guide with headset commentary.
Spot friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay and glide along Rottnest’s coastline, passing beaches, bays, and scenic viewpoints.
Pick your ferry departure—Perth for a longer scenic ride, or Fremantle for a shorter, quicker crossing.

from

AU$188

Explore more destinations from Perth

Rottnest Island Tours

Similar things to do in Perth

Visitors exploring a cave with stalactites, part of a holiday favorites tour.

Holiday Favoritesfrom AU$26

Jewel Cave entrance in Margaret River, featuring a cave explorer cutout and surrounding greenery.

Margaret River Cavesfrom AU$18

Margaret River Lighthouse with surrounding greenery and wooden walkway.

Margaret River Lighthouse Toursfrom AU$18

Optus Stadium in Perth at sunset with city skyline in the background.

The Optus Stadium Tourfrom AU$37

Pinnacles Desert limestone formations under clear blue sky in Western Australia.

Pinnacles Desert Toursfrom AU$35

Browse by themes

Zoos in Perth

Landmarks in Perth

View all Perth Attractions

What our guests say

Patricia F

Australia

Group

Jul 2026

The scenery, the landscape, and just the rugged landscape of the island. Anybody who is spending time on the west needs to do this day trip to Rottnest from Perth. Get a bike and do the lap.

From Perth: Rottnest Island Return Ferry with Swan River Commentary

Manuela F

Singapore

Group

Jul 2026

Loved the swan river commentary, allowed us to learn a lot about the swan river. There was sufficient time for us to visit the popular places around Rottnest Island. The bus tour was great too, the guide, Mark, knew a lot about the island and had cute dad jokes.

From Perth: Rottnest Island Return Ferry with Swan River Commentary

Hm N

Australia

Family

Jul 2026

+2 more

It was definitely impressive and the tour guide was well informed and informative while guiding the group. The whole facility, souvenir and coffee shop is very impressive and welcoming.

Combo: Rottnest Island Tour with Ferry from Fremantle & Jewel Cave Guided Tour

Kate L

Australia

Couple

Jul 2026

Aside from seeing the natural beauty of the caves, I enjoyed the tall guides rapport with the Group. I also learning about the history of the cave.

Combo: Rottnest Island Tour with Ferry from Fremantle & Jewel Cave Guided Tour

Hana A

Australia

Solo

Jun 2026

It's very easy to book the tour and the ferry it's self is massive. I would however recommend to hire a electic bike if you are keen to explore the whole island.

From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Return Ferry with Bike or Bus Tour Options

Padric Y

Singapore

Couple

May 2026

i love the sceneries, the quokkas and also the vast wildlife at rottnest! it was really convenient with the hop on & off bus! hope to visit rottnest again, maybe cycle around the island the next time!

From Fremantle: Rottnest Island Return Ferry with Bike or Bus Tour Options

Kirsty S

Australia

Group

May 2026

Beautiful island , will go back.. loved the cycling exceot didn't expect so many hills. Would have liked the option of an e-bike for a fee. Definitely recommend a trip here

Rottnest Island Ferry and Bike Day Trip

Wilhelmina P

Australia

Couple

May 2026

From start to finish the day was great .. the ferry was very well organised and staff were great .. the island was clean and looked beautiful from everywhere we went staff were also helpful.. we had no issues from the ferry to the bike hire to the shops to even finding a good shady spot for lunch .. had a great day

Rottnest Island Ferry and Bike Day Trip

Nearby cities to explore

See all

Things to do in Uluru

Australia

Things to do in Adelaide

Australia

Things to do in Darwin

Australia

Things to do in Melbourne

Australia

Things to do in Hobart

Australia

Things to do in Sydney

Australia

Things to do in Cairns

Australia

Things to do in Whitsundays

Australia

Things to do in Brisbane

Australia

Things to do in Gold Coast

Australia

About Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island, also known as Wadjemup, is a car-free island off the coast of Western Australia, known for its beaches, turquoise bays, quokkas and coastal landscapes. It sits around 30 km from Perth and is accessible by ferry from Perth, Fremantle or Hillarys.

With more than 60 beaches and secluded coves, the island has plenty to see beyond its main settlement. You can cycle along coastal paths, swim and snorkel in sheltered bays, spot quokkas in the wild, visit historic sites and lighthouses, or simply spend the day moving between beaches.

Ferries take around 25–30 minutes from Fremantle, 45 minutes from Hillarys and up to 90 minutes from Perth, depending on the service. Once on the island, you can explore by bike, bus, Segway or on foot.

What to expect at Rottnest Island

A scenic ferry crossing

Begin your trip with a high-speed ferry from Perth, Fremantle or Hillarys. The Perth route can include a scenic journey along the Swan River.

A car-free island

Private cars aren't permitted, so most visitors explore by bike, guided bus, walking trails or Segway.

Quokkas in the wild

Quokkas roam freely, particularly around Thomson Bay and the main settlement, making wildlife spotting one of the island's signature experiences.

Tourists on a boat tour near Rottnest Island with Perth skyline in the distance.

Beaches and bays

Choose from more than 60 beaches and secluded coves, including The Basin, Pinky Beach and Geordie Bay.

Cyclist on a path along the coast of Rottnest Island, Australia.

Cycling and coastal trails

Bike hire gives you the flexibility to travel between beaches, viewpoints and landmarks at your own pace.

Oliver Hill Battery cannon overlooking Rottnest Island, Australia.

Landmarks and heritage

Visit Wadjemup Lighthouse, Bathurst Lighthouse and Oliver Hill Battery, including its historic tunnels.

Different ways to explore

Choose a ferry-only experience for maximum flexibility, add bike hire for independent exploration, or join a guided bus tour for a more relaxed introduction to the island.

Couple snorkeling near Rottnest Island beach with clear water and trees in the background.

Several hours on the island

Most day trips allow around 4–8 hours on Rottnest, while an overnight stay gives you more time for a slower visit.

Pro tips to help you make the most of your trip

Take an early ferry

You'll have cooler conditions, quieter beaches and more time to explore.

Bicycle parked on Rottnest Island beach with turquoise ocean view.

Book ahead

Bikes and popular tours can have limited same-day availability, particularly during peak periods.

Ricey Beach on Rottnest Island with turquoise waters and sandy shoreline.

Plan around clusters

Rottnest is larger than it may appear on a map. Group nearby beaches, viewpoints and attractions together rather than criss-crossing the island.

Don't rely entirely on walking

Walking works well around Thomson Bay, but a bike or tour transport is more practical for seeing the wider island.

Cyclists on Rottnest Island with ocean view, accessible via ferry from Perth or Fremantle.

Mix transport options

If you want to cycle but also cover more ground comfortably, combine bike hire with the island bus or a guided tour.

People enjoying the sun and sea at Pinky Beach, Rottnest Island.

Go beyond Thomson Bay

The main settlement is convenient for facilities and quokka spotting, but quieter beaches and bays are further around the island.

Road beside Thomson Bay with boats docked at Rottnest Island, Australia.

Allow buffer time

Leave enough time to return your bike, reach the ferry terminal and check in before your return departure.

Wadjemup Lighthouse on Rottnest Island with surrounding landscape and ocean.

If you're short on time

Prioritise Thomson Bay, Pinky Beach, Wadjemup Lighthouse and a couple of western or northern bays.

Highlights

Spot Quokkas

See Rottnest’s famous quokkas roaming freely around Thomson Bay and the main settlement. Keep your distance and watch them in their natural habitat.

Snorkelers exploring clear waters near Rottnest Island's coastline on a sunny day.

Swim & Snorkel

Cool off in the clear waters around The Basin and Pinky Beach. These sheltered spots are great for swimming and exploring the island’s marine life.

Cycle the Island

Pedal along coastal trails connecting Rottnest’s beaches, bays and viewpoints. Bike hire gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Wadjemup Lighthouse surrounded by greenery on Rottnest Island, Australia.

Visit Wadjemup Lighthouse

Climb up to Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic views across the island and surrounding ocean. It’s one of Rottnest’s most recognisable landmarks.

Red train on Oliver Hill Railway, Rottnest Island, Australia, with coastal landscape in background.

Explore Oliver Hill

Discover Rottnest’s military history at Oliver Hill Battery. Guided tours take you into the historic underground tunnels and reveal the island’s wartime past.

Bathurst Lighthouse on Rottnest Island with clear blue sky and coastal vegetation.

See Coastal Landmarks

Visit Bathurst Lighthouse and other historic and scenic landmarks dotted around the island. They add a dose of history to a day spent exploring the coast.

Join a guided tour

Explore Rottnest by bus with a local guide and live commentary. It’s a convenient way to see more of the island without cycling or navigating the routes yourself.

Luxury boat with swimmers in turquoise waters near Rottnest Island.

Take a Scenic Ferry

Travel to Rottnest by ferry from Perth, with the longer route taking you along the Swan River before reaching the island. Alternatively, choose a shorter crossing from Fremantle or Hillarys.

Plan your visit

Couple on bikes overlooking the ocean on Rottnest Island, part of the ferry and adventure boat tour.

Bike: The most flexible option for covering beaches, bays and viewpoints.
Bus: A comfortable option if you want guided sightseeing without cycling.
Walking: Best around Thomson Bay and for shorter trails.
Segway: A guided alternative to cycling.

Additional information about Rottnest Island

Boat anchored in turquoise waters of Fish Hook Bay, Rottnest Island, Australia, surrounded by rocky cliffs.

Weather

Rottnest has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Wind can affect cycling comfort and sea conditions. Clear, calm weather is particularly useful for swimming and snorkelling.

Food

Cafés, bakeries and casual dining options are concentrated around Thomson Bay, with additional food options near some popular beaches. Picnic spots are available around the island.

Parking

Paid and public parking options are available near ferry terminals in Perth, Fremantle and Hillarys. During busy periods, arriving early is recommended.

Private vehicles

Rottnest is a car-free island. Visitors generally use bikes, buses, walking trails or guided experiences to get around.

Wildlife etiquette

Quokkas are wild animals and should not be touched or fed. Keeping your distance helps protect both the animals and their natural behaviour.

Skydivers giving thumbs up while freefalling above Rottnest Island, Australia.

Island activities

Depending on your ticket, you can combine your ferry transfer with bike hire, guided bus tours, snorkelling, Segway experiences or skydiving. Adventure activities may have separate age, weight, safety or weather restrictions.

Frequently asked questions about Rottnest Island tours

You can take a ferry from Perth, Fremantle or Hillarys. Fremantle is the fastest crossing at around 25–30 minutes, while the journey from Perth can take up to 90 minutes.

Get the Headout app, save up to 80%

Enjoy exclusive deals, offline access to your tickets & live booking updates.