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From happy customers

Loved by 45 million+
Darren Bradley
NZ

Darren

New Zealand
Oct 2025
5/5
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Our guide leeha was awesome, did everything and so much more great tour guide in every aspect treated everyone as family which was awesome
Harrison Stanford Dicker
AU

Harrison

Australia
Oct 2025
5/5
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This marked the first day of my parents first trip to Western Australia since I moved here late last year. They enjoyed themselves almost as much on the ferry down the Swan River as they did on Rottnest Island. Without this context, it would've been fair to assume that they were on a honeymoon.
Lisa Kustermann
DE

Lisa

Germany
Aug 2025
5/5
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The crew were very helpful. Even without collecting the wristband for the bikes they organised it for us. So we could still discover the beautiful island on bicycles. Of course one of the highlights and reasons coming here are the Quoakkas, and we didn't leave without a selfish. Definitely worth the trip.
James Bennington
AU

James

Australia
Nov 2025
5/5
Every team member we met today was absolutely fantastic, we had an amazing day! The volunteer guide team was great, super knowledgeable and really friendly. Along with the staff who drove the bus and train for the grand island tour! They made the trip fun, and a joy to experience! Rottnest Island is a must see when visiting Perth and it is truly a beautiful place to visit, my wife and I highly recommend the grand island tour.
Dianne T Allen
AU

Dianne

Australia
Sep 2025
5/5
Both the ferry service and the Grand tour were amazing. Island is bigger than I imagined. Saw lots of Quokkas! Both guides were great. Not crowded, easy to get around (with pram). Good facilities. Yummy boxed lunch. I am from Vic, was visiting family in WA. Would go again. Good value. Highly recommended.
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Explore the home of the Quokkas on a Rottnest Island tour

Located just off the coast of Perth, this compact A-Class reserve is made for an easy, carefree day trip. From beach hopping to wildlife spotting, there’s plenty to do here with the real celebrity moment being snapping a selfie with the island’s resident charmers, the quokkas.

Fun fact: when Dutch explorers arrived in the 17th century, they mistook these little cuties for giant rats and named the island “Rat’s Nest.” Thankfully, the name didn’t stick, but the quokkas did and they’re still a major reason people visit Rottnest.

  • Tour duration: Full day about 7-9 hours
  • Best season: Late spring to early autumn (October–April)
  • Meeting/drop-off point: Perth, Fremantle or Hillarys
  • Key attractions: Wadjemup Lighthouse, The Basin, Main Settlement, Parker Point, Little Salmon Bay

Which departure point is right for you

Perth

Distance: ~33 km to Rottnest Island
Travel time: ~90 minutes by ferry (one way)
Why choose it:
The most scenic departure point. The journey starts with a peaceful cruise down the Swan River before entering the Indian Ocean, giving you skyline views, riverfront mansions, and a relaxed lead-in to your day. Ideal for first-timers and anyone who wants the most “experience-rich” route.

Fremantle

Distance: ~19 km to Rottnest Island
Travel time: ~25–30 minutes by ferry (one way)
Why choose it:
The quickest and most convenient option. Fremantle’s heritage port sits closest to Rottnest, making it perfect for travelers who want to maximize island time. Great for those staying in Fremantle or preferring a short crossing with frequent departures.

Hillarys

Distance: ~22 km to Rottnest Island
Travel time: ~45 minutes by ferry (one way)
Why choose it:
A relaxed northern-suburbs alternative. Departing from Hillarys Boat Harbour means easy parking, a family-friendly precinct, and a smooth ride that’s popular with locals. Best for those based in Perth’s northern suburbs or looking to pair the trip with a visit to Hillarys Marina.

What to expect on a Rottnest Island tour?

Boats moored at Geordie Bay, Rottnest Island, with sandy beach and clear blue water.

Morning departure

Board your ferry from Perth, Fremantle, or Hillarys. Expect comfortable seating, smooth boarding, and a well-timed schedule that gets you to the island with plenty of daylight to explore.

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.
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.

Things to know before booking your Rottnest Island tour

  • Choosing your starting point: All tours to Rottnest Island, except lunch cruises, start from Perth, Freemantle and Hillarys. Freemantle is the closest starting point, located 25 minutes away by ferry. Hillarys will take you 45 minutes to reach by ferry. Perth city is the farthest location and will take you 90 minutes via ferry. The good thing is, you get a free pass-by tour of the Swan Lake if you choose to board from Perth!
  • Guided vs self-guided tours: You can choose an air-conditioned guided bus tour that completes a 1 hour 45 minute loop around the island, covering all major attractions and lookouts. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, you can walk between points of interest or book a tour that includes bike hire for more flexibility.
  • For thrill-seekers: If you love adrenaline rushes, tandem skydiving in Rottnest Island is a must-try experience, starting at AU$399. Get stunning sky-high views of the island and the Indian Ocean as you free-fall from as high as 15,000ft! Upgrade to the Rottnest Island skydive and ferry tour starting at AU$581, for ferry returns, and time to explore the island after the skydive.
  • Fun way to explore the island: Consider joining a quick Segway tour of the island. These guided rides take you along scenic coastal paths and quiet trails while a local expert shares stories about the island’s history, wildlife, and hidden gems.

Your Rottnest Island tickets and tours explained

TourBoarding pointDurationInclusionsTransfers includedBest suited forUpgradesPrice
Return ferry from Fremantle

Fremantle

7 hr 30 min – 8 hr

Entry to Rottnest, round-trip ferry, up to 7 hrs on island; optional: bike hire, AC bus tour, Oliver Hill tour, Captain Hussey Train, Wadjemup Lighthouse visit, light lunch

Round-trip ferry

Travelers wanting flexible, self-paced exploration with easy transfers

Bike hire, guided bus tour, Oliver Hill tour, Captain Hussey Train, lighthouse visit, lunch

AU$86.50
Ferry & bike day trip

Perth / Fremantle / Hillarys

Flexible (typically full day)

Entry, round-trip ferry, bike hire with helmet/lock, up to 7 hrs on island

Round-trip ferry

Adventurous travelers wanting to explore by bike at their own pace

—

AU$120
Return ferry from Perth

Perth

8 hr – 9 hr 45 min

Entry, round-trip ferry, up to 7 hrs on island; optional: bike hire, AC guided bus tour

Round-trip ferry

Explorers wanting river views, a relaxing cruise, and flexible touring

Bike hire, guided bus tour, English-speaking guide

AU$127
Guided bus tour + return ferry

Perth / Fremantle / Hillarys

5 hr 45 min – 9 hr 45 min

1 hr 45 min AC guided bus tour, guide, entry, round-trip ferry, free time

Round-trip ferry

Visitors wanting an easy, fully guided experience

—

AU$140
Return ferry from Hillarys

Hillarys Boat Harbour

Flexible (typically full day)

Entry, round-trip ferry, self-guided time; optional: bike hire, AC guided bus tour, live commentary

Round-trip ferry

Travelers wanting shorter ferry, fewer crowds, easy parking

Bike hire, AC bus tour, live commentary

AU$92
Segway tour + teturn ferry

Perth / Fremantle

8 hr – 9 hr 25 min

Entry, Segway tour, guide, ferry transfers, Segway training, radio commentary, helmet

Round-trip ferry

Those wanting effortless sightseeing with expert commentary

—

AU$184
Tandem Skydive

Rottnest Island (make own way)

2 hr

10,000 ft or 15,000 ft skydive, instructor, safety gear

No ferry transfers included

Thrill-seekers wanting pure skydiving without ferry components

Choose 10,000 ft or 15,000 ft jump

AU$439
Skydive + return ferry

Perth / Fremantle / Hillarys

12 hr

Entry, round-trip ferry, 10,000 ft/15,000 ft skydive, instructor, safety gear, accident insurance, time on island

Round-trip ferry

Travelers wanting a full adventure day with ferry + skydiving + beach landing

Choose jump altitude; purchase photos/videos

AU$527

Things to do on your Rottnest Island tour

View of Rottnest Island in Perth
Group of tourists enjoying a sunny day on the Rottnest Island Guided Bus Tour with Return Ferry from Perth or Fremantle, with a view of the island's unique landscape in the background
Group of tourists enjoying a luxurious seafood cruise around Rottnest Island, with clear blue waters and scenic views
Tourists enjoying the Rottnest Island Ferry and Adventure Boat Tour, departing from Perth or Fremantle, with a view of the island's coastline and clear blue waters
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.
Rottnest Express ferry creating a wake, with Rottnest Island and lighthouse visible in the distance.
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Meet the Quokkas

Rottnest’s famous quokkas roam freely around the island, especially near Thomson Bay and Settlement. Spend time observing them in their natural habitat and capture a cute selfie—but remember to keep a respectful distance and never feed them.

Explore by Bike

With car-free roads and scenic coastal trails, biking is one of the best ways to explore Rottnest. Ride to secluded bays, lighthouses, and lookout points at your own pace while enjoying ocean views and refreshing island breezes.

Snorkel at The Basin

The Basin is Rottnest’s most iconic natural swimming pool, known for calm turquoise water and vibrant underwater life. Snorkel among corals and fish in shallow, protected conditions ideal for beginners, families, and anyone seeking a relaxing swim.

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Visit Parker Point

A marine sanctuary with crystal-clear visibility, Parker Point offers excellent snorkeling and peaceful beach lounging. Follow the underwater snorkel trail to spot corals, reef fish, and occasional rays while enjoying one of the island’s most beautiful white-sand stretches.

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Walk the Wadjemup Bidi Trails

The Wadjemup Bidi is a network of walking trails covering forests, wetlands, beaches, and heritage sites. Choose from shorter loops or full-day sections to experience Rottnest’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, and hidden viewpoints away from the main settlement.

Climb Wadjemup Lighthouse

Located at the island’s highest point, Wadjemup Lighthouse offers panoramic 360-degree views of bays, salt lakes, and rugged coastline. A short climb rewards you with sweeping island vistas and a deeper understanding of its maritime history and navigation heritage.

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Discover the West End

The island’s westernmost point features dramatic cliffs, blowholes, and prime wildlife viewing. Stop at Cathedral Rocks to spot fur seals, enjoy sweeping ocean panoramas, and explore rugged coastal landscapes shaped by powerful Indian Ocean swells.

Map of Rottnest Island

Plan your Rottnest Island tour

People relaxing on Pinky Beach, Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island is open all day, all through the year. Guided tours and skydives start at a fixed time, here's everything you need to know:

  • Ferry: 9am & 9:30am from Fremantle; 8:30am & 8:45am from Perth
  • Guided bus tours: 9am from Fremantle; 8:30am, 11:30am & 1:30pm from Perth; 10am from Hillarys
  • Guided Segway tours: 8:30am from Perth
  • Tandem skydives: 7:50am, 8:20am, 8:50am, 9:30am, 10:10am, 10:50am & 11:30am from Rottnest
Group of tourists enjoying the Rottnest Island Guided Bus Tour with a return ferry from Perth or Fremantle, with a scenic view of the island's coastline in the background
  • Summer months, between November and January, are the busiest time on the island, with the weather being bright and warm. This is the best time to visit the island if you want to enjoy surfing, snorkeling, and other beach activities.
  • Winter months, between June and August, are the low season, and are a great time to visit the island. The island is much less crowded due to the cooler weather, and you get to explore the island's beaches and hike without struggling for a good view. Pro-tip: bonfires by the beach are a great way to warm up if you feel chilly.
  • Shoulder seasons, between September to November and March to May, are another good time to visit the island, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. Spot baby quokkas scurrying about the island towards the end of August and September. You'll also spot whales in the ocean as they migrate during the shoulder season.

Rottnest Island is located just off the coast of Perth, surrounded by the Indian Ocean. You can get here via ferry, boat or plane. The island does not have any roads leading to it from the mainland, so getting here by car is not possible.

Address: 1 Henderson Ave, Rottnest Island WA 6161, Australia | Find on maps

  • Closest ferry stop: Thomson Bay; the Fremantle jetty is closest to the island.
  • Closest airport: Rottnest Island Airport; Rottnest Air-Taxi, Corsaire Aviation and others operate daily helicopters and planes from Perth, Hillarys and Fremantle.
Rottnest island tours - Ferry transfers

The best part about booking a Rottnest Island tour is the ease of return transfers offered. All tour types, except the lunch cruise will include ferry pick-up and drop-off to Perth, Hillarys or Fremantle depending on your selection.

  • Fremantle: This is the closest town to the island, located just 19km away on the ferry. It will take you around 25 minutes one-way.
  • Hillarys: The second closest town on the mainland, located 22km away via ferry. You should reach the island in around 45 minutes.
  • Perth: The city center is the farthest from the island, located 33km away via ferry. Thankfully, the chances of running into water traffic is quite less, so you should reach the island in 90 minutes.
Group of tourists enjoying the Rottnest Island Guided Bus Tour with a return ferry from Perth or Fremantle, with a scenic view of the island's coastline in the background

Since Rottnest Island is car-free, visitors rely on other modes of transport like bikes to make their way around the island. You can book the Rottnest Island ferry and bike day trip which includes bike rentals that can be used during your time on the island.

Alternatively, you also have the following transport options on the island.

  • Quokka coaches: These hop-on and hop-off buses stop at 19 points on the island. You can get tickets at the Main Bus Stop between 8:30am and 3pm, and visit landmarks including Henrietta Rocks, the Lighthouse, and Cape Vlamingh. 
  • Quokka hopper: For private transfers, you can hire electric carts that drive through Thomson Bay, Kingstown and Geordie Bay. They operate between 8am and 10pm daily. Make a booking in advance to avoid delays.
Rottnest Island - Facilities
  • Restrooms (WC friendly)
  • Showers
  • Changing rooms
  • Water refill stations
  • Baby changing rooms
  • Barbecue pits
  • Ferries (WC friendly) 
  • Beaches (WC friendly)
Rottnest Island - Rules
  • Alcohol consumption: Street drinking is not permitted on the island. 
  • Camping: Camping and barbecues are only allowed in designated spots. 
  • Pets: Pets are not allowed on the island. If you have a service dog, please call and inform the island rangers prior to your visit.
  • Wildlife interactions: Feeding the local wildlife and swimming with long-nosed fur seals is not permitted and will get you a hefty fine.
Rottnest Island - Food & drinks

​Dome Cafe: This cute cafe by Thomson Bay serves up soups, sandwiches, all-day breakfasts and desserts along with chilled beer and wine.

​Lontara: Fine dining eatery near The Settlement, serving South East Asian cuisine and signature cocktails. Their bottomless Sunday brunches are a crowd favorite.

​Isola Bar e Cibo: Traditional Italian dishes made from fresh local ingredients, this seaside resto-bar is best known for its jumbo prawns, succulent lamb and fresh pasta.

​Geordie’s Cafe and Art Gallery: Visit this laidback cafe located near the bustling Geordie Bay. They've got outdoor seating, and serve up hefty burgers, fresh salads, and loaded milkshakes.

stay near rottnest island

​Samphire Rottnest: Check into luxurious ocean facing rooms, with free WiFi, beach and pool access, spa, and room service.

​Discovery Resorts: Enjoy a “glamping” experience at this hotel, with easy access to the beach, an outdoor pool, and an in-house restaurant.

​Stay Rottnest: Choose between a campsite, independent bungalows, or hostels for a comfy stay that caters to all budgets.

Visitor tips to make the most of your Rottnest Island tour

  • Stunning cliff views: The West End is the western-most point of the island, which we recommend visiting for stunning views of the blue waves crashing against rocky coves that line the shore. 
  • Quokka bandits: The island’s cutest inhabitants have a habit of grabbing things that are within their reach, so make sure you keep food and other valuables stowed away when you're nearby. 
  • Day at the museum: The Wadjemup Museum pays tribute to the island’s history tracing the lives of the Aboriginals who were imprisoned and buried on Rottnest, featuring military tunnels and a WWII gun battery. It's a must visit for history buffs! 
  • Whale watching: If you’re visiting the Island between August and December, head to the Cathedral Rocks or Cape Vlamingh. If you're lucky, you'll be able to see whales on their migratory journey!
  • Save your lighthouse stop for mid-day: Most tours hit Wadjemup Lighthouse early, making the viewing platform busy. Go around midday instead because the tour buses have moved on, the breezes are stronger, and you’ll get clearer ocean views over the salt lakes.
  • Ride straight to Little Salmon Bay before the tour groups arrive: If your tour includes free time or a bike hire, pedal directly to Little Salmon Bay. It’s the first beach to fill up, and early visitors get the calmest water, best snorkeling visibility, and empty shoreline vibes.

Frequently asked questions about Rottnest Island tours

What are the different types of Rottnest Island tours available?

There are several ways to explore Rottnest Island. Choose between ferry tours, bike tours, guided tours, and lunch cruises, depending on your budget and travel preferences. You also have the option to choose between three starting points: Perth, Freemantle and Hillarys.

How much does a Rottnest Island tour cost?

Our curated tours are suited to all budgets. Ferry tours are the overall budget-friendly option, with prices starting at AU$84. Guided bus tours are the most affordable option if you prefer a comprehensive tour of the island, with prices starting at AU$134. These tours also give you spare time to explore the island on your own. If you do not have any budget restrictions, the luxury seafood cruise starting at AU$379, will give you a tour on the coasts of Rottnest Island and a seven-course lunch & drinks onboard.

What does a Rottnest Island tour include?

Most Rottnest Island tours will include a ferry pick-up and drop-off to the mainland. Other inclusions will depend on the type of tour you choose. They can include bike rentals, guided tours, skydives, and lunch cruises. Please note: the lunch cruise starts from Rottnest Island and does not include return transfers to the mainland.

Are there guided tours for Rottnest Island?

Yes, there are! There are various types of guided tours including bus tours, Segway tours, and Grand tours. Bus tours are a good pocket-friendly option for families visiting the island, with prices starting at AU$134. These tours go up to 2 hours long, and give you extra time to explore the island on your own. Segway tours are more expensive, but are great for younger folks who want a 1.5-hour guided tour of the island; these tours start at AU$253. A good mid-budget option is the Grand tour which starts at AU$180, and includes a detailed 4-hour tour of the island.

Can I cancel my Rottnest Island tour?

Certain tours like the lunch cruise, grand cruise, and skydives can be canceled up to 24 hours before the experience. Please recheck the cancelation policy before you book your tour to avoid last minute surprises.

How do I get to Rottnest Island?

Rottnest Island is easily accessible by ferries from Perth, Fremantle, and Hillarys. This is the most convenient and budget-friendly way to reach the island. Alternatively, you can also book a private boat or a scenic flight to the island. There is no way to drive down to the island.

Is it worth visiting Rottnest Island?

Absolutely! Perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Rottnest Island is a small but picturesque island, just off Perth. Visitors get to dive into clear blue waters, explore underwater caves and shipwrecks, discover unique wildlife and chill out on sandy beaches.

What is the best time to go on a Rottnest Island tour?

Rottnest Island is open all year long, and the best time to visit will depend on your priorities. If you want the best weather for water sports, Summer is the best (and busiest) time to visit. If you want to explore the island without the crowds and don't mind the cooler temperatures, Winter months are the best option. If you want to spot baby quokkas and whales, Spring and Autumn are the best seasons to visit Rottnest Island.