Cycling Rottnest Island:
One cheeky day in paradise

Just 18 kilometres off the coast of Perth lies a sun-drenched speck of land that Western Australians hold close to their hearts – Rottnest Island. Or “Rotto,” as any local with a stubby in hand will proudly call it.

It’s a car-free paradise boasting 63 pristine beaches, 20 crystal-clear bays, world-class snorkelling, and a population of grinning quokkas that have become unwitting Instagram stars. Whether you’re chasing a salty escape, a historic wander, or just want to tell the folks back home that a quokka smiled at you, a Rottnest day trip delivers the goods.

Practical Information

  • Getting there: Ferries depart daily from Fremantle, Hillarys, and Perth CBD. Book ahead in peak season.
  • Ferry prices: Around $70–$100 return per adult depending on departure point and operator.
  • Rottnest bike hire: $30–$40/day; available at the ferry terminal or pre-book online.
  • Best time to visit: September to April for swimming and wildflowers; avoid winter storms.
  • Dress code: Casual beachwear; bring hat, sunscreen, and swimmers.
  • Safety: Keep hydrated, follow signage on bike tracks, don’t feed the wildlife.

More information

  • Rottnest Island Authority: Official island info including maps and accommodation
  • SeaLink Rottnest Island: Ferry bookings and bike hire combo deals
  • Pinky’s Beach Club: Dining with a view near the lighthouse

The Verdict: Worth the leg workout and the ferry fare

Rottnest Island might be close to Perth, but it feels a world away. It’s a throwback to simple, salty summers — where the beaches are crowd-free, the wildlife is adorable, and the pace is whatever you choose to make it. Hiring a bike adds the right amount of effort to make your reward feel earned. And if you’re after a mix of exercise, nature, history, and quokka-induced giggles, a Rottnest day trip is hard to beat.

Getting to Rotto: Ferry, flight or flash yacht

The classic way to start a Rottnest adventure is by ferry. Three operators will get you across the water: from Fremantle (25–30 minutes), Hillarys Boat Harbour (40–45 minutes), or the more leisurely one-hour journey from Barrack Street Jetty in downtown Perth. Each option offers scenic views and the occasional salty spray — part of the charm unless you’re wearing suede.

Those feeling a bit more cashed-up can skip the ferry queues entirely. There’s the seaplane from the Swan River, a helicopter from the city, or even a chartered yacht for those with more swagger than sense. Whatever your choice, you’ll end up in Thomson Bay – Rottnest’s main settlement and the jumping-off point for most island antics.

Wheels and wandering: Rottnest bike hire and car-free bliss

Rottnest Island is blissfully car-free. No utes, no traffic lights, no revheads doing burnouts — just the sweet sound of bicycle tyres crunching gravel and the occasional bell ding from a wayward toddler on training wheels. The island runs a hop-on hop-off bus, but cycling remains the best way to explore.

Visitors can bring their own bike on the ferry, but most opt for easy Rottnest bike hire. The rental centre at the ferry terminal will kit you out with everything you need – bikes, helmets, and maps – though you’ll still need legs sturdy enough to tackle the occasional hill. Don’t worry, there are beaches waiting to reward you after each incline.

From salt lakes to secret beaches: Cycling highlights

One of the real joys of Rotto is how compact it is. In a single day, you can ride across to the island’s west end, stop for a swim in half a dozen secluded bays, and still make it back in time for a cold drink before your ferry departs.

Head inland past the salty shimmer of Pink Lake and Lake Baghdad – yes, they really do glow in the right light – and up toward Oliver Hill. The gun emplacements and tunnels are a solid detour, especially for history buffs keen to see where Australia once prepared for a Japanese invasion. From here, the views over the island’s central spine are unforgettable.

Then cruise downhill to the coast. Little Salmon Bay is a must for snorkellers, with coral bommies just metres from shore. The Basin is a crowd-pleaser with natural rock pools and a picture-perfect curve of white sand. Pinky Beach delivers soft sand and views of Bathurst Lighthouse, while Little Parakeet Bay is often blissfully empty if you arrive early.

Things to do on Rottnest: History, quokkas and hidden coves

Besides the beaches, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. Visit the Rottnest Island Museum for insight into the island’s darker past, including its time as an Aboriginal prison and military outpost. Walk the Wadjemup Bidi trail system for a closer look at the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

But let’s be honest – the star attraction here is the quokka. These photogenic marsupials are everywhere, particularly around the settlement, and they’re not shy. You’ll likely be greeted by one on your way to grab lunch. Just don’t touch or feed them — not that they’ll listen when they try to climb into your bag.

Lunch with a view: Eating and relaxing in Thomson Bay

After a morning of riding and snorkelling, there’s no shame in finding a shady spot for lunch. Thomson Bay offers plenty of choices, from simple takeaway fish and chips to waterfront cafes with local seafood and WA wines. Frankie’s on Rotto is a solid bet for pizza and a cold pint. The Hotel Rottnest bar serves up frosty views of the mainland skyline — an excellent reminder of how far you’ve come in just 18 kilometres.

And if you’re the type to have a glass of rosé in one hand and a selfie stick in the other, Pinky’s Beach Club combines both.

Quokka selfies, wildflowers and cheeky seabirds

No Rottnest day trip is complete without the iconic “quokka selfie.” These little legends have mastered the art of photobombing and somehow always manage to look like they’re in on the joke. Just crouch down, hold your phone steady, and let the magic happen. The trick is patience and not smelling like hot chips.

Beyond the marsupials, the island bursts into bloom between September and March. Blue Rottnest daisies, coastal pigface, and a riot of yellow acacias colour the dunes and trails. Birdlife also thrives here — you’ll see ospreys soaring above the cliffs and cheeky silver gulls that’ll swoop your chips if you’re not quick.

Wrapping up your Rottnest day trip

With the afternoon sun starting to mellow and your legs starting to complain, it’s time to make your way back to Thomson Bay. Grab a final drink, return the bike, and check the ferry times — because missing the last boat means spending a night without your toothbrush.

Watching the sun set behind the limestone cliffs as the ferry motors back to Perth, there’s a simple pleasure in knowing you’ve seen one of WA’s most beloved spots the right way: on two wheels, with a bit of sweat and a lot of laughter.