Top Things to Do On Rottnest Island
The island of Rottnest is a well-known vacation spot that can be found in the waters off the coast of Western Australia, not far from Perth. It is located approximately 18 kilometres to the west of Fremantle and the only way to get there is by ferry. The island is well-known for its breathtaking beaches, gin-clear waters, and unique wildlife, such as quokkas, which are a type of marsupial that can only be found on the island.
On the island, guests have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of pursuits, including swimming, snorkelling, cycling, fishing, and hiking. It is a wonderful place to unwind and relax, and it’s an ideal destination for couples, families, and solo travellers who want to experience the natural beauty of Western Australia. Rottnest Island is located in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef.
Here are some top things to visit at Rottnest Island:
Cycle Around the Island
Get a map at the information centre and ride your bike all over the island. Choose from a 4-kilometre, 10-kilometre, or 22-kilometre ride. Cycling around the island should take between three and five hours.
On the island, you can rent bicycles if you don’t want to bring your own. Bike rentals are part of the deal on some ferries. If you want to bring your own bicycle from Perth to this island, you can book a maxi cab that has the facility to carry your bicycle.
Swimming & Snorkelling
On Rottnest Island, there are 63 beaches and secluded coves, which is a lot.
From the equator, Warm tropical water flows down the West Coast of Australia on the Leeuwin Current. A lot of tropical fish, shells, and coral larvae move with this current.
The Rottnest Island Wreck Trail is the first underwater interpretive trail in the southern hemisphere. It was made in collaboration with a Western Australian Museum. Plaques are put next to the wrecks and on land to show where they are. This is called a “museum without walls.”
Parker Point
A snorkel route with underwater interpretive signage on marine life is available at Parker Point. Given the depth of the water (between three and five metres) and the distance from shore, this course is best suited for more advanced snorkelers. Because of the reef’s ability to host a variety of marine species, Parker Point is included in a marine sanctuary.
The Pocillopora damicornis population on the limestone reef is the southernmost of its kind in Australia. The outlook over Porpoise Bay is stunning, and the bus station for visitors to Rottnest Island is conveniently located nearby.
Little Salmon Bay
One of the best places to swim, snorkel, and scuba dive is in Little Salmon Bay. Due to its confines, it tends to become overly packed during peak WA hours. This beach is loved by families since the water is shallow and safe for children to play in.
Our two girls have been snorkelling at this bay on Rottnest Island with their classes several times, and they have always been impressed by the beautiful coral and fish they have seen. At Parker Point, you can take a bus or a long walk to Little Salmon Bay (stop for the photos at Jeannie Lookout).
Little Parakeet Bay
Little Parakeet Bay is a great place to go swimming or snorkelling, and it’s conveniently located close to the town and on the bus route.
Because of the reef’s protective barrier effect, this beach is perfect for families.
The Basin
Because it is protected by an outer reef, The Basin is considered to be the best beach on Rottnest Island for families. It is an easy stroll from the settlement, making it an excellent choice for a picnic location. There is a lot of shade provided by the pine trees, and there are bathroom facilities located here. While we were there in January, surf lifeguards were keeping a watchful eye over The Basin.
Always remember to snorkel in a group and avoid touching any of the aquatic animals you see. You shouldn’t bring any mementoes with you, especially things like shells and rocks.
Surfing
Strickland Bay is home to some of the world’s best surf breaks, which have placed in the top 50. Check the surf report to see what the wind and waves will be like before you head out.
There are a number of additional great places to go surfing on Rottnest Island, including:
• The Rotto Box
• The Basins Ledge
• Riceys Beach
• Chicken Reef — Salmon Bay
• Stark Bay
• The Fruit Bowl
- Transits — Thomson Bay
In case you hire a maxi taxi Perth, you can let them know in advance that you need to carry your surfboard to Rottnest Island.
Fishing
Several people from Western Australia make the trip to Rottnest in order to fish. There are three types of fish that live in this area: those that live in the reefs, those that live in the seagrass, and migratory species. Cobbler, School Whiting, Australian Herring, Tailor, Long-headed Flathead, Sea Garfish, and Skipjack Trevally (also known as “Skippy”)are some of the fish that you might reel in.
Both netting and spearfishing are prohibited, and anglers participating in recreational fishing are required to abide by the norms and rules established by the Washington State Department of Fisheries. If you would want further information, the Rottnest Island Fishing Guide is available for your perusal.
Diving
Rottnest Island is a popular day excursion for scuba divers because it is home to some of the best dive locations in the Perth area. Divers may explore the wrecks and observe the diverse marine life while having a good time.
Western Rock Lobster (crayfish) diving is a favourite activity when the weather is warm (from 15 Nov. until 30 June). The WA Fisheries website is where you should go to learn about licencing and laws.
Best Time to Visit Rottnest Island
Fall and early spring are the seasons that are ideal for a trip to Rottnest Island. It is advisable to go swimming or participate in other water activities during the months of October and November because the weather is pleasant and the waves are quiet enough for these activities.
The winters on Rottnest Island are wet and warm, while the summers are hot and dry. The island has a climate that is reminiscent of the Mediterranean. The temperature on the island is lower than that of the neighbouring city of Perth.
Summer: The months of December to March makeup summer, and temperatures during this time range from an average of 30 degrees Celsius to a maximum of 40 degrees Celsius at their hottest. Summertime Humidity is negligible.
Those who find the heat of the beaches unbearable in the summer months should consider visiting during the autumn months of April and May instead. The month of April ushers in a period of gradually decreasing temperatures, with average highs of 25 degrees Celsius and average lows of 13 degrees Celsius for the duration of the month.
The months of June through August, which are considered to be winter months, are when it rains a lot, and the waves become too choppy for swimming. Typical temperatures range from 19 degree Celsius to 7 degrees Celsius. On the other hand, it is not unheard of for the temperature to fall below 0 degrees Celsius on clear nights.
The spring season features temperatures that range from 20 degrees Celsius to 11 degrees Celsius, with October and November being the months with the most agreeable weather.