Just 20 kilometres off the coast of Perth sits a bona fide slice of Indian Ocean paradise. Lovingly nicknamed Rotto, this wildly beautiful island has been luring holidaymakers for decades. With its turquoise bays, postcard-perfect beaches and unhurried vibe, Rottnest feels a million miles away from, well, anywhere.
So why has Rottnest got us smitten? Well, in addition to harbouring the cutest marsupials on the planet (yes we’re talking about quokkas) here’s a few reasons why we love Rotto:
A nature lover’s dream
As an A-Class Reserve Rottnest is a haven for spectacular flora, abundant marine life and wildlife that’ll make you swoon. Cue quokkas, Rotto’s famously friendly marsupials. You could also spot soaring ospreys, breaching whales and a rowdy colony of New Zealand fur seals.
Windswept rambles
Dotting the island are a series of walking trails known as the Wadjemup Bidi. If you love rugged coastal scenery and windswept walks on the beach you’ll want to explore all 45 kilometres. Alternatively, the Rottnest Voluntary Guides Association offers fantastic free guided walks that’ll give you the scoop on everything from shipwrecks to local wildflowers.
Explore the island on two wheels
Rottnest is car free which gives it a wonderfully relaxed feel. While you can definitely navigate the main settlement on foot you’ll probably want to hire a bike to explore the rest of the island. Not feeling up to a cycle? Not to worry. Rottnest is serviced by the Island Explorer bus service which circumnavigates the island and whisks passengers to some of its prettiest beaches.
Crystal clear snorkelling
If you love the ocean you’ll be in your element. Rottnest is fringed by an endless slew of pristine beaches, and thanks to its small footprint you’ll always be able to find a sheltered bay. Just check which way the wind’s blowing and jump on your bike. Or flag down the Island Explorer.
Soak up Australian history
Australia may be relatively young when it comes to modern history, but there are still plenty of stories to soak up. As a former Aboriginal prison colony and WWII stronghold, Rottnest is brimming with local history. All you have to do is look.
Live the barefoot beach life
One of Rottnest’s greatest joys is simply living the barefoot beach life in your self-contained villa. With spacious living areas and sweeping ocean views, there’s simply no better place to have brunch. Don’t worry, you can pick up everything you need from the quaint little General Store. And yes, they sell wine. Fancy something a little more luxurious? Why not snap up a lakeside suite at Karma Rottnest?
Pampering sessions
From luxe facials to full body massages, the Karma Day Spa has everything you need to leave feeling energised and revitalised.
Snap a quokka selfie
Famously adorable, quokkas have made quite a name for themselves. Also known as the world’s happiest animals, these cute little marsupials are a cross between a kangaroo and a wallaby. Sounds adorable? They are. It’s literally impossible to step foot on Rottnest and not see a quokka, so have your camera at the ready.
Play
Beyond knockout coastal scenery Rottnest is bursting with activities. There’s an impossibly scenic golf course (plus mini put if you’re not country club kind of person), a pint-sized picture hall and even skydiving if you’re craving thrills. Plus joy flights, Segway tours (yes please!) and more marine boat cruises than you can shake a stick at.
Wine and dine
You may be able to cycle around Rottnest in a matter of hours but that doesn’t mean the island scrimps on places to eat, drink and be merry. Start your day with a perfectly crafted coffee at The Dome, complete with breezy views of the jetty. For lunch choose from a quick bite at the iconic Rottnest Bakery, then pencil in a leisurely evening at the sun drenched Hotel Rottnest Bar & Bistro. Fiery sunsets guaranteed.
While Rottnest is one of WA’s most popular day trip destinations, to get a true feel for the island it’s best to pencil in a few days. This gives you a chance to tick off a string of beaches, sign up for a guided walk and share a sunset glass of wine with your newfound neighbours. And most importantly, slip into Rottnest Island time.
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