Rottnest Island In Perth

Rottnest Island Perth : 7 Things You Need To Know

Thinking of visiting Rottnest Island? We wanted to answer all the important questions you might have about Rottnest Island before you plan your trip out from Perth.

While the city itself has brilliant food, things to do and is seriously pretty, no trip to Perth would be complete without venturing out to Rottnest. Here’s absolutely everything you’ll need to know…

1. What’s so special about Rottnest Island?

The island was separated from the mainland 7,000 years ago and is home to gorgeous white sandy beaches, coral reefs and salt lakes. Rottnest is also home to the quokka and is a protected wildlife area.

There’s no cars allowed on Rottnest island, so bikes are the main way of getting around, along with a small bus network.

It’s an excellent spot for a whole host of adventure activities including diving, fishing, surfing and skydiving. Basically, it’s an exceptionally fun day out.

Rottnest Island

2. How do I get there?

There’s three ways to get to the island…

  • Ferry is the cheapest. $67.50 for adults, $42 for children (over 4), $5 for infants.
  • Fly from Perth to Rottnest Island return, from around $130 per person
  • Helicopter rides are $299 one way or $549 return per person

Helicopter rides in Rottnest Island

3. How much does it cost?

The following fees are valid up to 2019… Every fee goes back into the conservation work on the island.

Adult/Concession/Student Day Visitor $18.50
Child (4-12 years) Day Visitor $7.00
Family Group (2 adults, 2 children) Day Visitor $44.50
Adult/Concession/Student Extended Stay (Over Night) $24.50
Child (4-12 years) Extended Stay (Over Night) $8.50
Family Group (2 adults, 2 children) Extended Stay (Over Night) $55.00

4. How long will it take?

If you’re arriving by ferry the journey times are as follows (if weather is fine)…

  • 25 minutes from Fremantle,
  • 45 minutes from Hillarys Boat Harbour,
  • 90 minutes from Perth’s Barrack Street Jetty.

Plane and helicopter flights are only around 10 minutes in-the-air time! You should probably spend at least one night here as there’s so much to do.

5. When is the best time to go?

You can head for a single day and pack everything in. The first ferry arrives at 8am and the last ferry will leave for the mainland at 6.30pm, giving you a full 10 hours to explore.

Many people choose to stay for at least one night and you can choose from camping, hostel, hotels and other premium options. This allows for more time to explore at their leisure.

6. Where I will I get the best photos?

The three best spots are…

  • Parker point: The best place for snaps of white sandy beaches
  • Pink lake: An incredible sight and a photo that will impress your friends
  • Quakkas: These cute animals are all over the island and well worth getting a photo with “the happiest animal on the planet”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Rottnest Island (@rottnestislandwa) on

7. Any insider tips?

  • You’re not allowed to bring your pet dog or cats to Rottnest Island
  • You can bring your own bike to Rottnest, but it will cost you $15 on the ferry
  • The island can sell out during peak season so book well in advance
  • The island explorer bus is a good option for kids who get tired from cycling
  • Pack plenty of water. The shops are spread out and it’s thirsty work exploring

Rottnest Island

Big 7 Travel Team