A Rottnest Island day trip is a must for any backpacker or visitor to Perth! Found 19 km off the coast of Fremantle, which is also a must-see location in Perth, Rottnest is a beautiful island with a long history. Rottnest is known for being the home of the quokka, a native mammal only found on the island. Visitors will find a relaxed experience on their Rottnest Island day trip and will be eager to visit again! The best time to visit Rottnest is between October and May, you’ll enjoy beautiful weather. There are not many better places to relax on a hot day! I have personally had friends travel from Sydney to Perth just so they could visit Rottnest, they loved it. This article will give a better idea of how I’d recommend structuring your day trip!
Travelling to Rottnest
Start your day nice and early, there is no better way than getting an early ferry. The majority of people who visit Rottnest take the ferry from Fremantle, Hillarys Boat Harbour, or Elizabeth Quay. With tickets from Fremantle to Rottnest available for $58, you’ll enjoy a speedy 30-minute trip. With beautiful views on the way, it’s a great way to start the day. If you are based in the city, you can get a ferry from Elizabeth Quay, which will save you travelling to Fremantle! Tickets are available from $99, this is slightly more expensive because the journey is longer at about 90 minutes. There are discounts for children, seniors, and students, and all prices can be found here. There is also a $20 admission fee per person which is included when you book your tickets, but I promise the beauty of the island makes it worth it! It is worth booking tickets in advance because they can sell out and be unavailable on your day of travel. It is important to check the times of your return ferry so you are not stranded on the island. Ferries in summer run until approximately 6:30 but it’s important to check the timetable here.
What to do when you arrive on your Rottnest Island day trip
When you arrive in Rottnest after your ferry trip, there is so much to do. Arriving early is recommended to make the most of the day. There is so much to do for everyone! You’ll make your way from the ferry to one of the local bays or towards the general store in the Settlement where you’ll find restaurants, the bakery and everything you’ll need. A great way to see the island is to hire bikes. These are available from $30 for 24 hours or $16 after 1 pm.
Are You More Of A Thrill Seeker?
If you looking for a thrill, why not undertake a skydive to get the blood flowing? From $339 it’s a great way to start the day. If you have hired bikes you can cycle to the airport from the jetty in 5 minutes or walk in 15 minutes if you are coming straight from arrival. I have skydived in Rottnest. and it was one of the best experiences of my life! You can see the full island in all its beauty from the sky and enjoy something different! It can also be a great way to get a break from the summer heat! If skydiving is not for you, why not go scuba diving? If already qualified there are many beautiful locations to dive. You can hire scuba dive tanks from $21 for 24 hours or $10 after 1 pm. You can get refills for $10.
Are You Looking To Explore And Relax?
If you are looking for a more relaxed Rottnest island day trip, you can hire bikes and take a trip around the island, stopping at one of the many bays. Visit Salmon Bay and snorkel the shipwreck. You can hire snorkels for $21 and paddleboards for $75. This is a great way to see the beauty of the island and the wildlife of the ocean. You can cycle around the island in a couple of hours visiting as many bays as you wish. Experience the wildlife native to Rottnest, thousands of people visit Rottnest every year to see the famous Quokkas. Found only in Rottnest, these tiny mammals are found all over the island, but most commonly in the settlement. It is important not to touch or feed the animals as it is bad for the environment and causes them to become dependent on food that is not healthy for them. If you are more interested in history, why not take a visit to the island museum. A source of great information, you will learn about the history of the island and what it means to Aboriginal people.
Are You Looking For Somewhere To Eat Or Have A Drink?
A Rottnest island day trip would not be complete without a trip to Pinky’s! A great bar overlooking the beach, Pinky’s is a great place to relax with a drink after a day of exploring and swimming. With a variety of Asian-infused starters and Italian-influenced mains a meal here is not to be missed. If your looking for more of a pub lunch and pub feel, a trip to Hotel Rottnest is for you. A large Australian pub located near the settlement, you’ll find a bustling pub with a great atmosphere. If you are looking to assure yourself a table, you can pre-book! For me, although I enjoy a trip to Pinky’s, I have to say my preference for an afternoon drink and food would be Hotel Rottnest where I have spent many afternoons with my partner.
What To Make Of Your Rottnest Island Day Trip
Your Rottnest Island day trip is one to embrace. It’s not every day you can visit a beautiful island so close to Perth. With stunning sites and numerous activities, there is something for everyone to do. If you are looking for a chilled day or something exciting Rottnest has it all. One thing you will be sure not to miss is the quokkas who will make themselves known to you.