A Day on Rottnest Island: Sun, Sand, and Quokkas

If you're looking for a slice of paradise just off the coast of Perth, Rottnest Island (or "Rotto" as the locals lovingly call it) is the ultimate destination. With its stunning beaches, laid-back vibe, and those adorable quokkas, this little island offers an unforgettable experience. Here’s how our day on Rottnest unfolded.

Getting There

The journey began with an early morning bus to the city and then the train to Fremantle, where we took a ferry. The crisp sea breeze and views of the coastline made the 30-minute trip fly by. For anyone prone to seasickness, it’s a good idea to sit outside or take precautions—the water can get a little choppy!

As the ferry pulled into Rottnest’s main settlement, turquoise waters greeted us and the buzz of fellow travellers ready to explore.

Exploring the Island

Rottnest is car-free, but there’s no shortage of ways to get around. Instead of renting bikes, we opted for the Island Explorer Bus, a convenient hop-on, hop-off service that stops at all the island’s major attractions. The bus allowed us to cover more ground without breaking a sweat, and the friendly drivers provided great tips along the way.

The first stop of one of our round trips of the island was Parker Point, from where we got a short 'guided' tour to Little Salmon by one of the island's volunteers, a math teacher named Mayo. Although he has never worked in that field, his master's in biology became apparent with his insights into the island's bird life, telling us where to look out for osprey nests.

Meeting the Quokkas

Of course, no trip to Rottnest is complete without meeting its most famous residents: the quokkas! These tiny marsupials are known for their friendly demeanour and camera-ready grins. We found them near the settlement, hopping around without a care in the world.

Remember to respect the wildlife—feeding or touching quokkas is a no-go. Instead, crouch down and let them come to you for that perfect selfie moment. We saw one kid chasing them when we went for a cocktail at the end of the day and he was reprimanded quickly by the staff.

Lunch with a View

For lunch, we grabbed a table at The Dome, a restaurant chain quite prevalent in the Perth area, overlooking the sparkling bay. Fresh seafood, cold drinks, and the sound of waves made for a relaxing midday break.

Tips for Visiting Rottnest Island

• Book Ahead: Ferries and bike rentals can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.

• Pack Essentials: Sunscreen and water are must-haves for a day on the island.

• Go Early: To make the most of your time, catch one of the first ferries.

• Respect Nature: Rottnest is a protected reserve, so leave no trace and follow the rules.

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Rottnest Island is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. Whether you're swimming, biking, or snapping selfies with quokkas, every moment is a reminder of Australia’s natural beauty. If you’re in Western Australia, don’t miss the chance to escape to Rotto—you won’t regret it!