Top 12 Bucket List Things to do on Rottnest Island

Continue reading for our curated Bucket List of the top bucket list things to see and do when travelling to Rottnest Island, located off the coast of Perth in Western Australia.

For further information including directions to each of these locations and attractions, click through to the listing on our Aussie Bucket List website or app, and scroll down to the bottom to see their locations pinned on Google maps. You can then easily get directions from your current location to each of the Rottnest Island attractions listed below.

Image credit: Tourism Australia

About Destination

Location

Rottnest Island, a small but beautiful island located off the coast of Western Australia, is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich history. Just 18 kilometers (11 miles) from Perth, Rottnest Island is easily accessible by ferry, private boat, or even plane, making it a convenient getaway for both locals and international visitors. Covering an area of around 19 square kilometers (7.3 square miles), Rottnest Island is renowned for its serene environment, crystal-clear waters, and sandy beaches, along with its status as a nature reserve and important historical site.

Image credit: Tourism Australia

Historical Background

The history of Rottnest Island is deeply entwined with both Indigenous Australian and European exploration. Before European settlement, the island was known as Wadjemup, a name still used by the Noongar people, the traditional custodians of the land. The island has significant cultural importance to the Noongar people, who used it as a seasonal hunting and fishing ground. Evidence of their presence on the island can be found in various archaeological sites, including stone tools and shell middens.

The first European to record Rottnest Island was Willem de Vlamingh, a Dutch sea captain, who arrived in 1696. Upon seeing the island's quokkas, a small marsupial, he mistakenly believed they were giant rats and named the island "Rattennest," which means "Rat’s Nest" in Dutch. Over time, the name was anglicized to Rottnest.

The island's modern history began in the early 19th century when it was used by the British as a place of detention for Indigenous people and as a prison for convicts. In 1838, the British established a settlement on the island, and it later became a place for the forced relocation of Aboriginal prisoners from the mainland. The use of Rottnest as a prison continued throughout the 19th century, and its darker history as a site of exploitation and hardship for the Indigenous population is still remembered today.

Natural Beauty and Biodiversity

Rottnest Island is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a range of stunning landscapes and a diverse array of wildlife. The island features rugged limestone ridges, salt lakes, sandy beaches, and picturesque bays. Its relatively small size and isolation from the mainland have contributed to its unique ecological profile.

One of the most famous residents of Rottnest Island is the quokka, a small, herbivorous marsupial that has become the symbol of the island. Quokkas are friendly and curious animals, often approaching humans without fear, which has led to their reputation as one of the happiest animals on the planet. The population of quokkas on Rottnest is substantial, and the island is the only place in the world where they are found in such large numbers.

In addition to quokkas, Rottnest is home to a variety of other wildlife, including numerous seabirds, migratory shorebirds, and marine life such as dolphins, seals, and a range of fish species. The island's surrounding waters are also renowned for their crystal-clear conditions, making it a great location for snorkeling and diving. The coral reefs, rocky outcrops, and shipwrecks in the area contribute to its reputation as an excellent underwater destination.

Rottnest’s diverse ecosystems include coastal heathlands, woodlands, wetlands, and saltmarshes. The island is also home to several species of plants that are endemic to the region, including a variety of wildflowers that bloom in spring and summer. The island’s natural beauty and ecological significance have made it a protected area, and the government has implemented strict conservation measures to preserve its environment.

Image credit: Tourism Western Australia

Tourism and Attractions

Today, Rottnest Island is one of Western Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors from around the world for its natural beauty, recreational activities, and historical sites. The island's charm lies in its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and diverse range of things to see and do.

A key feature of the island is its extensive network of beaches, many of which are considered among the best in Australia. Some of the most famous beaches include Pinky Beach, Longreach Bay, and The Basin, all known for their clear, turquoise waters and white sandy shores. These beaches are perfect for swimming, picnicking, or simply relaxing by the water.

For those interested in outdoor activities, Rottnest offers numerous options. Cycling is one of the most popular ways to explore the island, with over 50 kilometers of bike paths to enjoy. Visitors can rent bikes, including tandem bikes or electric bikes, to navigate the island's stunning scenery at a leisurely pace. The island is largely car-free, which contributes to its relaxed and tranquil atmosphere.

Snorkeling, diving, and swimming are also popular pastimes on Rottnest Island, with a number of marine ecosystems and underwater sites to explore. The waters surrounding the island are home to colorful coral reefs, fish, and other marine creatures. Many tours are available to explore the island's beaches and waters, including guided snorkeling trips, wildlife tours, and boat tours.

In addition to its natural attractions, Rottnest Island offers a number of historical sites. One of the most notable is the Rottnest Island Wadjemup Lighthouse, which has been guiding ships through the area since 1900. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history, as well as enjoy panoramic views of the island and surrounding ocean. Other historical landmarks include the remnants of the old prison and a variety of World War II sites, such as coastal defense bunkers and gun emplacements.

Conservation Efforts

Due to its ecological importance, Rottnest Island is subject to ongoing conservation efforts. The island is a protected reserve, and authorities are dedicated to preserving its unique biodiversity and historical landmarks. The island's wildlife, particularly the quokkas, is closely monitored, and several programs have been implemented to manage invasive species and protect native habitats.

Rottnest Island is a unique and beloved destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and recreational opportunities. Whether visitors are seeking outdoor adventure, relaxation on pristine beaches, or an exploration of the island’s fascinating past, Rottnest Island provides a memorable experience. As a place of cultural significance, ecological importance, and natural splendor, it continues to attract travelers from all over the world who seek to connect with its tranquil and stunning environment.

TOP Bucket List Experiences and Attractions on Rottnest Island

1 - Rottnest Island Tandem Sky Diving 

Image credit: Skydive Geronimo

LAND RIGHT ON THE BEACH FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE!

A Tandem Skydive on Rottnest Island is an absolute must-do Aussie Bucket List experience when visiting Perth, Western Australia. Skydive Geronimo offers ‘Australia's best beach skydives' in Perth's favourite holiday island - Rottnest Island, in Western Australia. Their team of dedicated and experienced staff provide outstanding tandem skydive experiences where first timers and dare devils alike, have the opportunity to skydive in two of Australia’s most picturesque drop zones. 

The view is spectacular from 10,000 to 14,000ft as you free fall with your Tandem Skydive Instructor at up to 200kms per hour. The world then slows down as you glide over Rottnest under your parachute, landing on the beach with friends and family waiting. 

Add Skydiving Rottnest Island to your Aussie Bucket List HERE.

2 - Salmon Bay

Image credit: Rottnest Island Authority

Salmon Bay is a beautiful and tranquil beach located on the northern coastline of Rottnest Island, Western Australia. Known for its clear, shallow waters and soft white sand, the bay offers an ideal environment for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the water. The calm, protected waters make it especially popular with families and those seeking a peaceful escape. It is also a great spot for snorkelers to explore the vibrant marine life, including colorful fish and coral reefs that lie just beneath the surface.

Accessible by bike or foot, Salmon Bay is easily reached from other parts of Rottnest Island, with several cycling paths leading to the beach. The surrounding natural scenery, including rugged limestone formations and coastal vegetation, enhances the bay’s serene atmosphere, making it a picturesque destination. The bay is also home to a variety of wildlife, with occasional sightings of seals and dolphins in the area.

Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely swim, a snorkeling adventure, or simply relaxing on the sand, Salmon Bay offers a peaceful retreat and is considered one of the most beautiful and idyllic beaches on Rottnest Island. It’s a must-visit location for those seeking a quiet, scenic spot to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

Add Salmon Bay to your Aussie Bucket List HERE.

3 - Little Salmon Bay

Image credit: Tourism WA

Little Salmon Bay is a small, serene beach located on the southern coast of Rottnest Island, Western Australia. Known for its crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and tranquil atmosphere, Little Salmon Bay offers a peaceful escape for visitors seeking a quiet beach experience. The bay is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with rugged limestone formations and coastal vegetation adding to the area’s charm.

The calm, shallow waters of Little Salmon Bay make it an ideal location for swimming and snorkelling. The bay is part of the island’s marine reserve, and its protected waters are home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, coral reefs, and occasional sightings of seals and dolphins. Snorkelers can enjoy clear underwater visibility, making it a favorite spot for those wishing to explore the island’s vibrant marine ecosystem.

As with Salmon Bay, Little Salmon Bay is accessible by bike or foot, with well-maintained cycling paths and walking trails connecting it to other parts of Rottnest Island. It’s a relatively quiet and secluded area, making it perfect for those looking to relax, sunbathe, or enjoy a peaceful day by the water. The bay’s natural beauty and calm environment make it one of Rottnest Island’s hidden gems, ideal for a leisurely day in nature.

Add Little Salmon Bay to your Aussie Bucket List HERE.

4 - Parker Point

Image credit: Tourism WA

Parker Point is a stunning coastal area located on the southern side of Rottnest Island, Western Australia. Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, Parker Point is a popular destination for snorkelers and divers. The area is part of a marine reserve, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its diverse underwater ecosystems, including colorful coral reefs, fish, and other marine species. The waters here are calm and shallow, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and swimming.

Accessible by bike or foot, Parker Point is a relatively peaceful and secluded area, offering a serene escape from the more tourist-heavy parts of the island. The surrounding landscape features rugged limestone formations and coastal vegetation, adding to the natural beauty of the location.

In addition to water activities, Parker Point is a great place for picnicking or simply relaxing on the beach while enjoying the breathtaking views. Its pristine environment and tranquil atmosphere make it another one of Rottnest Island’s hidden gems, offering a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and relaxation for those looking to experience the island’s coastal beauty. 

Add Parker Point to your Aussie Bucket List HERE.

5 - The Basin

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The Basin is easily accessible from Thomson Bay and is located near popular walking and cycling paths on the island. The beach is surrounded by natural beauty, with limestone cliffs and coastal vegetation providing a scenic backdrop. Visitors can enjoy the area’s peaceful vibe, as it is often quieter than some of the larger beaches on the island.

With its inviting waters, stunning surroundings, and relaxing atmosphere, The Basin is one of Rottnest Island’s most beloved spots. Whether you're swimming, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the natural beauty, The Basin offers an idyllic escape on this beautiful island.

Add The Basin to your Aussie Bucket List HERE.

6 - Strickland Bay

Image credit: Rottnest Island Authority

Strickland Bay is a beautiful and scenic beach located on the southern coast of Rottnest Island, Western Australia. Known for its rugged beauty, crystal-clear waters, and excellent surf conditions, Strickland Bay is a favorite among experienced surfers. The bay’s strong, consistent waves make it a prime spot for those looking to enjoy water sports, particularly surfing, in a more secluded setting compared to other beaches on the island.

Surrounded by rocky outcrops and coastal vegetation, Strickland Bay offers a peaceful and picturesque environment, perfect for a day of relaxation or exploration. While the beach is primarily popular for surfing, its calm waters also provide an opportunity for swimming and snorkeling, particularly around the bay’s protected areas.

Strickland Bay is accessible via walking or cycling paths from other parts of the island, offering a more tranquil and remote feel. The bay’s natural beauty, combined with its surf-friendly conditions, makes it a hidden gem for visitors to Rottnest Island seeking both adventure and relaxation in a stunning coastal setting.

Add Strickland Bay to your Aussie Bucket List HERE.

7 - Geordie Bay

Image credit: Rottnest Island Authority

Geordie Bay is a picturesque and peaceful beach also located on the southern coast of Rottnest Island, Western Australia. Known for its calm, turquoise waters and soft white sand, it’s a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking. The bay’s sheltered location offers a tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for families and visitors looking to enjoy a relaxing day by the water.

The clear waters of Geordie Bay are home to a variety of marine life, including fish and occasionally seals, making it a great spot for snorkeling. The surrounding natural beauty, with rugged limestone cliffs and coastal vegetation, adds to the charm of the area. Geordie Bay is also a popular location for boating, with a small jetty and boat moorings available for those wishing to explore the surrounding waters.

Accessible by bike or foot, Geordie Bay provides a quieter alternative to some of the more crowded beaches on Rottnest Island. Its peaceful vibe, clear waters, and scenic surroundings make it a perfect spot for visitors seeking a relaxed and scenic retreat on the island.

Add Geordie Bay to your Aussie Bucket List HERE.

8 - Parakeet Bay

Image credit: Rottnest Island Authority

Parakeet Bay is another stunning and tranquil beach located on the southern coast of Rottnest Island, Western Australia. Parakeet Bay is also known for its abundant marine life, including colorful fish and occasional sightings of seals. Its sheltered location makes it a safe and inviting spot for families and those looking to unwind by the water.

Accessible by bike or foot, Parakeet Bay is a quieter alternative to other busier beaches on Rottnest Island. With its serene atmosphere, beautiful waters, and picturesque surroundings, Parakeet Bay is a hidden gem, offering a perfect retreat for those looking to experience the island’s natural beauty in a peaceful setting.

Add Parakeet Bay to your Aussie Bucket List HERE.

9 - Cape Vlamingh

Image credit: xxx

Cape Vlamingh is a rugged and dramatic point located on the western tip of Rottnest Island, Western Australia. Named after Dutch explorer Willem de Vlamingh, who first mapped the island in 1696, Cape Vlamingh offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and the surrounding coastline. The area is known for its breathtaking cliffs, rocky outcrops, and wild, natural beauty. It is a prime location for visitors seeking panoramic vistas of the island and the ocean, especially at sunset. A popular feature of the cape is the Cape Vlamingh Lookout, which provides an excellent vantage point for taking in the stunning views and capturing the rugged landscape.

In addition to its scenic beauty, Cape Vlamingh is rich in wildlife and offers a peaceful, remote experience. The area is home to various seabirds, including migratory species, and offers an opportunity for visitors to observe the island's diverse natural environment. Though the area is not ideal for swimming due to strong currents and rough waters, it remains a must-visit spot for those looking to appreciate Rottnest Island’s dramatic coastal landscapes and unspoiled wilderness.

Add Cape Vlamingh to your Aussie Bucket List HERE.

10 - West End

Image credit: Rottnest Island Authority

West End is also located on the western tip of Rottnest Island, Western Australia. The area is characterized by its rugged terrain, including limestone formations, wildflowers, and diverse marine life. The Cape Vlamingh Lookout, located in this region, provides spectacular panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and surrounding coastline, making it a popular spot for visitors to take in breathtaking vistas, especially at sunset. See you if you can spot sea lions basking on the rocks out beyond the point.

West End is a haven for wildlife, with numerous seabird species nesting along the cliffs and the waters nearby offering opportunities to spot dolphins and other marine life. Due to the remote and untouched nature of this area, it is less crowded than other parts of the island. While swimming and water activities are not recommended here due to strong currents, West End remains a must-visit for nature lovers and those wanting to experience the unspoiled beauty of Rottnest Island.

Add West End to your Aussie Bucket List HERE.

11 - Bathurst Lighthouse

Image credit: Rottnest Island Authority

Bathurst Lighthouse is a historic landmark located on Rottnest Island, Western Australia, offering panoramic views of the island and surrounding ocean. Built in 1900, the lighthouse stands 20 meters tall and has been a vital navigation aid for ships navigating the island's coastline. It is one of the most iconic structures on Rottnest, with its striking white tower and red lantern room.

The lighthouse is situated on the northern tip of the island, near the rugged coastline, making it a popular spot for visitors. A visit to Bathurst Lighthouse offers not only an opportunity to learn about its maritime history but also to enjoy breathtaking views of the island's beaches, salt lakes, and the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean. The area surrounding the lighthouse is rich in natural beauty, with wildflowers and coastal vegetation adding to its charm.

Though the lighthouse itself is not open for interior tours, the surrounding area is accessible to the public, and the nearby lookouts provide excellent photo opportunities. Bathurst Lighthouse is a must-visit for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking stunning vistas on Rottnest Island. We highly recommend visiting Bathurst Lighthouse at sunset for incredible views across the ocean, and if you are lucky, you may witness large sting rays coming to shore at the little cove beach at the bottom of the lighthouse steps.

Add Bathurst Lighthouse to your Aussie Bucket List HERE.

12 - Get a Selfie with a Quokka

Image credit: Chris Hemsworth (Instagram) via Discovery Parks WA

A trip to Rottnest Island would not be complete without a selfie with a Quokka! This should probably be at the top of your Rottnest Island Bucket List, you will be surprised at the sheer cuteness of these adorable little creatures! And no, you cannot pack one in your bag to take home with you (as tempting as this may be)!

Climate

Rottnest Island experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Due to its location off the coast of Western Australia, the island enjoys a relatively mild climate compared to the mainland, making it a popular year-round destination.

Summer (December to February)

During the summer months, temperatures on Rottnest Island typically range from 17°C (63°F) in the early mornings and evenings to around 30°C (86°F) during the day. The island's summer weather is often sunny and dry, with low humidity levels, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like swimming, cycling, and snorkeling. However, occasional heatwaves can push temperatures higher, particularly in January and February.

Autumn (March to May)

Autumn brings cooler, more comfortable temperatures. Average daytime temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) to 25°C (77°F). The weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it a great time to visit, as the island is less crowded than in summer. Rainfall is still relatively low during this period, although occasional showers may occur as the island transitions into winter.

Winter (June to August)

Winter temperatures on Rottnest Island are mild, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 19°C (66°F). The island experiences its highest rainfall during these months, with June being the wettest. While it can be cooler and occasionally windy, the winter months are still relatively mild compared to other parts of Australia. Winter also sees fewer tourists, which can be a draw for those looking for a quieter experience.

Spring (September to November)

Spring on Rottnest Island is marked by gradually rising temperatures and the blooming of wildflowers. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), with mild, pleasant weather that is ideal for outdoor exploration. Rainfall decreases compared to winter, and the island begins to experience more sunny days.

Winds and Sea Breezes

Rottnest Island is also known for its consistent sea breezes, which help moderate temperatures and provide relief during the hotter months. Winds are generally stronger in the summer and early autumn, especially on the western side of the island, where they can create ideal conditions for water sports such as windsurfing.

Overall, Rottnest Island enjoys a temperate climate that makes it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers year-round, though the best times to visit are typically during the milder autumn and spring months.

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Article by Samantha Porter - Aussie Bucket List Founder & Travel Writer

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