Located just off the coast of Perth, Rottnest Island is an A-Class nature reserve and home to the cuddly Quokka. The most convenient way to discover this island is by going on a day trip from the mainland. Explore the sandy beaches, viewpoints, centuries old wetlands, and historical sites spread across the isle.
Read on to know more, explore the fun experiences we've curated for you, and plan a fun Rotto day trip!
There are two types of day trips that you can choose from: guided and self-guided day trips. Let's take a look at their prices, inclusions, and other differences.
Tips for choosing your starting point
There are 60+ beaches on Rottnest where you can tan, swim, surf, or spot marine life. Surfers will love Strickland Bay and its waves. If you just want a quiet cove to relax in, head to Ricey Beach. Geordie Bay, The Basin, and Thomson Bay are crowd favorites among families, that are worth visiting.
The island has a some fascinating landmarks that include military bunkers, shipwrecks, museums and lighthouses. The Wadjemup Museum, Oliver Hills, and Wadjemup Lighthouse are must visit spots for all history buffs.
When you're surrounded by beautiful coral reefs in the Idian Ocean, it is only natural to indulge in some snorkeling. Henrietta Rocks, The Basin and Parakeet Bay are all popular spots among the visitors. Fun fact: Little Salmon Bay and Parker Point have informational plaques at the sea bed, where you can learn as you swim!
The animal ambassadors of Rottnest are easy to spot, especially in the trails leading to The Basin, Wadjemup Lighthouse, and Garden Lake. Note: you are not allowed to touch or feed them, however, posing for a selfie at a respectable distance is perfectly fine.
Apart from water activities like surfing and snorkeling, Rottnest Island is also known for its eco-boat tours. Head out for a 90-minute express boat adventure where you can spot long nose fur seals and enjoy an off-shore tour of the island.
You can choose between guided and self-guided day trips of Rottnest Island. Guided day trips have benefits like certified tour guides, bus and Segway commutes, and free time to explore the island, making it a great choice for families. Self-guided day trips give you more flexibility on what you want to do on the island. It includes bike hires, snorkeling gear rentals, and return transfers to the mainland. These tours are great for solo travellers or friend groups visiting Rottnest Island.
The most affordable day trip option are ferry tours that start at AU$84. If you prefer a guided day trip experience, guided bus tours are the most affordable option with prices starting at AU$134. These tours also give you spare time to explore the island on your own.
Most day trips include ferry pick-up and drop-off to Perth, Freemantle or Hillarys. Other inclusions will depend on the type of tour you choose, and can include bike rentals, guided tours with island transfers.
Yes, there are three guided day trips to choose from including bus tours, Segway tours, and boat tours. Bus tours start at AU$134 and are a budget-friendly option for families visiting the island. The guided tour will last around 2 hours, after which you can explore the island at your own pace. Segway tours are great for younger guests who want a bit more physical activity in their trip; these tours start at AU$253 and includes a 1.5-hour guided tour of the island.
Certain day trips like the grand cruise and bike and snorkel tour can be canceled up to 24 hours prior to the start of the experience.
Day trips from Perth are the most popular option among guests, which gives you a complimentary tour of the Swan River. You can also start your day trip from Freemantle or Hillarys, depending on whichever location is closest to you.
Yes, your day trip from Perth will include a return ferry that will take you back to the jetty in the city.
Yes, self-guided day trips like bike tours lets you hire bikes on Rottnest Island and start at AU$114.
Rottnest Island day trips from Perth usually start at 8:30am from the city. The timings may change depending on the type of day trip you choose.
Day trips from Freemantle typically start at 9am. The start time may change depending on the day trip you choose.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
