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Experience the best of Rottnest Island from Perth

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

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

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, Ferry cruising on clear blue waters during Rottnest Island day trip from Fremantle.
Ferry cruising on clear blue waters during Rottnest Island day trip from 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 10, Tourists on a bus tour at Rottnest Island with coastline view, Perth or Fremantle return ferry.
Tourists on a bus tour at Rottnest Island with coastline view, Perth or Fremantle return ferry.

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.
Small red boat in turquoise water near a lighthouse and island.

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 10, Ferry traveling from Hillarys to Rottnest Island across blue ocean waters.
Ferry traveling from Hillarys to Rottnest Island across blue ocean waters.

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

From Perth: Rottnest Island Bike & Guided Return Ferry Tour

9 hrs 30 mins
Transfers available
  • Explore Rottnest Island with round-trip ferry transfers from Perth, island entry, and up to 7 hours of cycling at your own pace.
  • Cycle through Thomson Bay to meet friendly quokkas and stop at The Basin to swim or relax in its calm turquoise waters.
  • Climb Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic island views, then explore Oliver Hill Battery with its WWII tunnels and historic fortifications.
  • Use your bike hire to explore the island at your own pace along scenic trails, hidden coves, and historic sites for a full-day adventure.
More details
  • Explore Rottnest Island with round-trip ferry transfers from Perth, island entry, and up to 7 hours of cycling at your own pace.
  • Cycle through Thomson Bay to meet friendly quokkas and stop at The Basin to swim or relax in its calm turquoise waters.
  • Climb Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic island views, then explore Oliver Hill Battery with its WWII tunnels and historic fortifications.
  • Use your bike hire to explore the island at your own pace along scenic trails, hidden coves, and historic sites for a full-day adventure.
from
AU$171.50
Slide 1 of 12, Snorkelers in clear waters near rocky shore, Perth/Fremantle tour.
Snorkelers in clear waters near rocky shore, Perth/Fremantle 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, Cyclists on a path by the beach on Rottnest Island, with ocean view and boats in the background.
Cyclists on a path by the beach on Rottnest Island, with ocean view and boats in the background.

Rottnest Island Ferry and Bike Day Trip

Explore at your pace
1 more

  • Depart from Perth for a quick ferry ride up the Swan River, or from Hillarys for a 45-minute crossing over the ocean to Rottnest Island. Once there, buckle up for a full-day cycling adventure exploring this scenic gem!

  • Pack a picnic lunch and explore pristine beaches like the Basin and Parakeet Bay, then head towards the West End for stunning coastal views.

  • For a spectacular view over Pinky Beach, the short climb up to the Bathurst Lighthouse is well worth it to see Rottnest’s beaches stretching in every direction.

  • Keep your eyes peeled for turtles, playful pods of dolphins, and, if you're lucky, majestic humpback whales on their annual migration.

  • Fun fact: Snap a selfie with a Quokka, the friendly marsupial indigenous to Rottnest Island, dubbed 'the world's happiest animal'.

More details

  • Depart from Perth for a quick ferry ride up the Swan River, or from Hillarys for a 45-minute crossing over the ocean to Rottnest Island. Once there, buckle up for a full-day cycling adventure exploring this scenic gem!

  • Pack a picnic lunch and explore pristine beaches like the Basin and Parakeet Bay, then head towards the West End for stunning coastal views.

  • For a spectacular view over Pinky Beach, the short climb up to the Bathurst Lighthouse is well worth it to see Rottnest’s beaches stretching in every direction.

  • Keep your eyes peeled for turtles, playful pods of dolphins, and, if you're lucky, majestic humpback whales on their annual migration.

  • Fun fact: Snap a selfie with a Quokka, the friendly marsupial indigenous to Rottnest Island, dubbed 'the world's happiest animal'.

from
AU$124

Explore more destinations from Perth

1

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

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.

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What our guests say

Leanne M

Australia
Group
2 weeks ago
Perfectly timed departure of both the ferry/ boat and the island bus tour with the v knowledgeable and delightful Lisa! Give that lady a payrise immediately! Only helpful suggestion would be to tell people where to park all day at the Freemantle docks, just past Dock E, as we panicked a bit when we arrived and everywhere else was 3 hrs. Plus didn't realise needed a printed ticket if booking through a third party operator and had to run over to the Sealink info booth. Otherwise, brilliant service, amazing day with Quokkas!! 🥰 I didn't touch it!! Was just trying show perspective of how tiny it was. Just a lil bub

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

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

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

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

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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

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

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.

Segway riders on Rottnest Island near a coastal lighthouse.

A car-free island

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

Segway riders on Rottnest Island near a coastal lighthouse.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Seared scallops on shells with greens, served on Rottnest Island Luxe Seafood Cruise.

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.

Blue parking sign with arrow pointing right.

Parking

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

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

Private vehicles

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

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

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.

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