Rottnest Island is a remarkable destination. Being only two hours from Perth by ferry, it makes the perfect day trip. Let’s learn more about Western Australia’s better kept secret.
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About Rottnest
What most visitors don’t know about Rottnest is it’s a stunningly beautiful place. Crystal clear turquoise, blue water surrounds Rottnest Island and its rocky reefs. This piece of paradise is a protected national park with over 63 beaches. The island is 11 kilometres long and 4.5 kilometres wide with limestone foundations.
Dutch explorers named the island “Rottnest” after seeing the quokkas who they thought were enormous rats the size of cats!
What to see
Undoubtably, the quokkas are the major draw card for those visiting Rottnest. These adorable small animals cast a spell on everyone they interact with. You’ll become a child again and fall in love with these cuddly creatures.
There are over 10,000 quokkas roaming the island and these curious, friendly animals like to approach visitors. That’s if they aren’t sleeping or eating. It’s such a hard life being a quokka!
What’s a quokka?
A quokka is a small nocturnal marsupial about the size of a cat. The quokka is related to the kangaroo and hops around like them too.
A thing to remember about the quokkas is that you should not touch them for your safety and that of the animal. Humans can also easily pass on viruses, which can be deadly for the quokka.
Besides not touching them, you must not feed them human food and it’s illegal to do so. Quokkas eat plants and if they eat our food, it can make them sick. Let them find their own food. You’ll be playing your part in protecting them.
What to do
There are many activities you can do on Rottnest Island. The popular ones include surfing, snorkelling, fishing, swimming, whale watching, bike riding and more.
How to get around
One of the best ways to explore the island and see the sights is by bike. Hire a bike and see the island at your own pace.
If you want to go on a guided tour of the island, take the 90 minute “Discover Rottnest” bus tour. If you are feeling energetic, you can walk some trails around the island too.
How to get there
The best way to get to Rottnest Island is by ferry. Regular ferries depart Perth and Fremantle daily.
Perth ferries depart from the Barrack Street Jetty. Fremantle ferries depart from Peter Hughes Drive. There are many ferry operators that will take you to Rottnest. I went with Rottnest Express.
Have you visited or plan to visit Rottnest Island? Comment below.
Linda is an Amazon author, writer and travel blogger. Her website The Smart Travelista offers travel resources and tips via her blog, books, videos and more.
