Rottnest Island

You’ll find powder-soft sandy spots dotted all over Rottnest Island. So, if you want to spend a few hours sunbathing or swimming in the bright, glassy water, you won’t have to travel far. There’s also plenty of places for bodyboarders and surfers to have their fun. Catch some waves at the Rotto Box or Riceys Beach, or dive into a world of watersports at North Thomson Beach.

Looking to relax? Then, the secluded shores of Little Salmon Bay are well worth a visit. The calm, gentle waters are ideal for a leisurely swim, especially with little ones, and the nearby coral reef makes it the perfect snorkelling spot. Alternatively, you can head further out into the ocean on a scuba-diving adventure, for the chance to see even more incredible marine life.

There are lots of fun ways for you to explore Rottnest Island. From hiking and kayaking tours, to exciting bike adventures, half of the fun is getting from point to point. Explore famous beaches and bays, and plenty of other cultural attractions, before grabbing a bite from one of the local cafes or eateries. Another great option is to hire a bike and make your way around the island in your own time, stopping to snap a quokka selfie every now and then!

Beach activities and watersports are the top thing to do here. But, if your ever fancy a challenge, Skydive Geronimo’s got you covered. In addition to breath-taking views from 15,000 feet, you’ll get a boost of serotonin that will last your whole holiday.

Australia is often hailed for its diverse and exciting wildlife, and Rottnest Island is no exception. The star attraction are the cheeky quokkas - brown, furry marsupials known for their curious and sociable nature. With over 10,000 living on the island, they’re frequently seen snoozing in the shade, or hopping around on a hunt for food.

The surrounding waters around Rottnest are an A-class reserve. And, if you embark on a boat tour between August and November, there’s a good chance you’ll catch a glimpse of a humpback whale pod, as they migrate along the coast. Alternatively, you can make tracks for Cathedral Rocks, to see fur seals basking in the sun and splashing around in the water.

If you want your time on Rottnest Island to be all about sunbathing on the beach, constantly dipping in and out of the bath-warm ocean, November to April is the best time to go. At this time of year, the temperatures are hottest, with average highs of 28°C across December, January and February. Although, the sea is particularly calm in October and November, so if you’re travelling with younger children these two months might appeal. On the other hand, surfers may want to visit in June, when swells are the biggest.

If you’re wanting to do some whale-watching, August to November is ideal, but humpback tours from Perth’s mainland run from September until December. So, with both weather and wildlife-watching considered, the best time to visit Rottnest Island is either November or December.