Quick Answers
Can I see quokkas on Rottnest Island?
Yes. Thousands roam freely, especially around the main settlement. Admire them from a distance and never feed them.
How do I get around Rottnest?
By bike. There are no private cars on the island.
Where are the best swimming spots?
The Basin, Pinky Beach and Little Salmon Bay.
An Island of Quokkas and Crystal Bays
Just a short ferry ride from Perth and Fremantle, Rottnest Island — known affectionately as “Rotto” — is Western Australia’s favourite island escape. With no private cars, 63 secluded beaches and 20 bays fringed by coral reef, it is a car-free paradise best explored by bike. Add the world’s happiest-looking little marsupial and you have one of Australia’s most charming day trips or short breaks.
Meet the Quokkas
Rottnest is home to thousands of quokkas — small, cat-sized marsupials with an irresistibly cheerful expression that have made the island world-famous. Curious and gentle, they roam freely, especially around the main settlement. Remember to admire them from a respectful distance and never feed them; it keeps these beloved locals healthy and wild.
Beaches, Bays and Snorkelling
The island’s coastline is a string of postcard-perfect coves. The Basin, Pinky Beach and Little Salmon Bay are favourites for swimming and snorkelling, where clear water and coral reefs teem with fish. Cycle from bay to bay, pausing whenever a stretch of white sand tempts you in for a swim.
Explore by Bike
With no cars allowed, cycling is the way to see Rottnest. A loop of the island takes you past the Wadjemup Lighthouse, historic salt lakes, and lookouts with sweeping ocean views. It is also a place of deep Aboriginal cultural significance to the Whadjuk Noongar people, known as Wadjemup, with a layered and important history to understand and respect.
When to Visit
Rottnest is a year-round destination, but the warmer months from October to April are best for swimming and snorkelling. Summer is busiest — book ferries and accommodation ahead — while spring and autumn offer milder weather and quieter trails. Even in winter, the island has a wild, peaceful beauty all its own.
Getting There
Fast ferries run daily to Rottnest from Fremantle, Perth (Barrack Street Jetty) and Hillarys Boat Harbour, taking from 25 minutes to around 90 minutes depending on the departure point. Many visitors come for the day, but staying overnight lets you enjoy the island’s quiet magic once the day-trippers have gone.
Where To Stay On Rottnest Island — Search & Compare
Browse and compare accommodation on Rottnest Island and nearby Fremantle and Perth on the interactive map below. Move the map, filter by price, and book directly.
A Hot Getaways destination. Where Care is Our Compass.
Travel Kindly
At Hot Getaways, care is our compass — and a little kindness makes every journey better. When you visit Australia, we gently ask you to:
- Care for the land and sea — tread lightly, take your rubbish with you, and help keep Australia’s wild places pristine.
- Respect the wildlife — admire our unique animals from a distance, never feed them, and give them room to be wild.
- Support local — choosing local operators, cafés and guides helps this beautiful place thrive.
- Honour Country — we travel on the traditional lands and sea Country of Australia’s First Peoples, with gratitude and respect to the Traditional Custodians past and present.
- Be kind to each other — a smile, a little patience and a helping hand make the day lovelier for everyone.
Small acts of care add up to something wonderful. Thank you for travelling kindly.
