Are you dreaming of an island getaway? Instead of heading overseas, head out west to WA to discover some truly special gems just off the coastline: gems like Wadjemup/Rottnest Island.
Rotto, as it’s known by locals, is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and unique wildlife (especially the selfie-loving quokkas). Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Rottnest offers something for everyone.
Here’s our guide to the ultimate weekend getaway to Wadjemup/Rottnest Island…
How to get to Wadjemup/Rottnest Island?
Ferry is the easiest and most common way to get to Wadjemup/Rottnest Island. You can catch a ferry from North Fremantle, Perth, or Hillarys Boat Harbour in Perth’s north. Three operators manage the route and the journeys can take anywhere from 25–90 minutes depending on which wharf you choose. Book your spot early as they are snapped up fast.
You can also hire or sail your own private boat. Or take to the skies and charter a seaplane or helicopter ride from Perth and enjoy the aerial views of the Perth coastline and the island.
Note that to disembark on the island, you need to pay entrance fees. These fees go towards maintaining facilities and services on the island. If you are arriving by private boat, you must pay this in advance. However, if you are using public services, it can be included in the price of your fare. Be sure to check before you get to the wharf.
When’s the best time to visit Wadjemup/Rottnest Island?
Rottnest Island is a year-round destination. It enjoys a kind of Mediterranean climate with warm to hot summers and fairly mild winters. That being said, the ideal time to visit is during spring and autumn as you will experience fewer crowds, calmer waters and not-too-hot temperatures.
According to Tourism WA more and more Australians are adding WA locations to their bucket list destinations. If you are planning interstate, keep an eye on the Tourism WA website — currently, they are offering a ‘dream sale’ for interstate travellers and a competition to win back money spent on offers.
How to get around Wadjemup/Rottnest Island?
The island measures only about 19 kilometres in circumference. You could walk it in a day if you were truly committed. A popular way to travel around Rottnest is by cycling. You can rent a regular or an electric bike when you arrive on the island — or bring one with you. Walking is a great way to travel around the island. There are several walking tracks with stunning views. Plus, all the island’s key spots are within walking distance of one another.
There aren’t too many cars on the island and plenty of cycle paths for easy and scenic riding. If you aren’t keen on cycling or walking, you can catch the Island Explorer Bus. It loops around the island and stops at major points of interest. There’s also a daily shuttle bus that travels between Thomson Bay, Geordie Bay, and Kingston. You can also take the Rottnest Bus Tour with Rottnest Express. This 90-minute bus tour of the island is complete with commentary on the island’s history and native fauna.
Where to stay on Wadjemup/Rottnest Island?
Although it’s a small island there are plenty of accommodation options on Wadjemup/Rottnest Island.
If you want modern luxury with a relaxed coastal vibe, book your stay at Samphire Rottnest. Located in the heart of Thomson Bay, each of the nature-inspired rooms has its own balcony or verandah. A perfect setting from which you can marvel at the stunning island surroundings. There’s also a pool if you tire of swimming in the ocean — plus, it’s heated so you can enjoy a pleasant swim no matter the time of the year.
If you want something a touch more rugged, you can opt for Discover Resorts – Rottnest Island. This eco-friendly resort offers luxe glamping behind the dunes of Pinky Beach. Wake up in your luxury tent and walk out to your private deck to see unparalleled ocean views.
If you’re planning on a budget and self-sufficient holiday on the island, there are several campgrounds and hostels dotted throughout the island. Plus, plenty of beachfront units, heritage cottages and cabins which you can book from Stay Rottnest Self-Contained.
What to do on Wadjemup/Rottnest Island?
Wadjemup/Rottnest Island is graced with stunning beaches, many of which are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and lounging. The island’s waters are nurtured by the warm Leeuwin Current that attracts tropical fish and stingrays – sometimes even sea lions and dolphins will stop by. Mettam’s Pool and Fish Hook Bay are both excellent for snorkelling.
Rottnest Island has a rich history. The Noongar people occupied the island tens of thousands of years ago. Its Indigenous name, Wadjemup, refers to it being a place across the river where the spirits go. The name is particularly poignant as the island later became a prison for Aboriginal men and boys. The original prison buildings still stand on the island, one of which is now home to the Wadjemup Museum, an essential stop when you visit.
Although surrounded by ocean water, if you venture inland you’ll discover twelve lakes that are saltier than the seas. Many of the lakes are permanent fixtures but others dry out over the summer and leave behind large swathes of white and pink salt pans. The area is stunningly beautiful with unique ecosystems and gorgeous backdrops for walking.
Where to eat on Wadjemup/Rottnest Island?
The island may be small, but its dining options are anything but. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants available to suit any craving.
Experience fine dining with a view over the water and meals prepared with fresh local produce at Isola, a fresh take on Italian-inspired fare. Or enjoy a relaxed vibe and handmade sourdough pizza at Frankies at Thomson Bay. Or if you’re after something quick on the move, stop in at its sister spot dotted throughout the island: there’s Lexi’s on Rotto, a lovingly restored 70s caravan on the island’s West End and Kalli’s next to the Wadjemup Lighthouse.
For pastries and coffee, there’s a popular bakery conveniently located in the main shopping hub that serves up a myriad of savoury and sweet baked goods plus ice cream and coffee. Take your treats to the outdoor picnic tables or beaches — mind that you don’t feed the quokkas, they will come begging!
Are there really quokkas everywhere on Wadjemup/Rottnest Island?
Yes, these adorable selfie-loving marsupials are found all over the island. Wadjemup/Rottnest Island boasts the largest population of quokkas in the world. The best time to spot them is early morning or late afternoon. But remember, while quokkas are friendly and used to people, they are wild animals, so it’s best to avoid feeding them. You can learn more about them on the free guided tours.
For the December 2024 issue of The Australian Women’s Weekly, our Style Director Mattie Cronan travelled to Rottnest Island not only for the photoshoot but also as a guest for the very special launch Linney Jewellery’s Argyle Pink Quokka which combines two WA icons: the quokka and Argyle Pink™ Diamonds from the Argyle Diamond Mine. The Linney family have created three limited edition golden quokka statues with the adorable Rotto native holding a removable Argyle Pink™ Diamonds leaf pendant that can also adorn the neck- a true collector’s item.
The Weekly team also drew local inspiration for the fashion shoot from the coral tones of the Rottnest sunset to the pure white sand and turquoise waters, the fashion in the pages of the December 2024 issue are filled with festive fashion from some of West Australians’ most favourite brands. Pick up your copy of the magazine in newsagents now or subscribe.
Photography: Steff King, Samphire Rottnest. Styling: Mattie Cronan
