Explore Rottnest Island – Home to the happiest animal on earth

By Evory Chong

Rottnest Island (Wadjemup), home to quokkas, the happiest animals on the planet, is a vacation destination in Perth with pristine beaches, turquoise bays, bike paths, and nature walks. With their breathtakingly white sand, crystal-clear water that reaches your toes, and magnificent coves created by naturally carved rocks, Rottnest’s beaches are like a little piece of paradise. In just 5 hours flight, you may also view seals floating or dolphins bobbing from specific spots, as well as humpback whales breaching (they migrate from September to November). Of course, the quokka, a friendly mammal with an angelic smile, is the main attraction. The Western Australian icon is not only the focus of innumerable celebrity selfies, but she also gave the island its name when Dutch sailors confused the quokkas as large rats in the 17^th century.

How to get there?

The most common method of transportation to Rottnest Island is by ferry, which departs from Hillarys Boat Harbour, Fremantle Port, and Perth’s city centre. From Hillarys, it’s a 45-minute ferry ride and a 30-minute journey from Fremantle. The journey from Perth city to the island takes around 90-minutes, during which time passengers navigate the gorgeous Derbal Yerrigan / Swan River’s bends before reaching the ocean.

1. Parker Point Marine Snorkel Trail

Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Parker Point, in Rottnest Island’s southeast corner, is where you’ll embark on one of the most thrilling underwater expeditions on the island. The Parker Point Snorkel Trail offers an educational experience for snorkelers and divers, enabling them to explore and understand the surrounding marine environment better. With 12 informative plaques strategically placed on the seabed, the trail offers insights into the diverse flora and fascinating marine creatures encountered along the way. The large coral reef and a wide variety of marine plants will lead the way as you get an unforgettable glimpse at the life beneath the waves in generally calm and clear conditions. The trail spans about 800 meters in length, so it’s advisable to allocate approximately one hour to finish the trail.

Bicycles and buses can both reach this trail; stopping at Parker Point, Bus Stop 5.

2. Experience Wadjemup on two wheels

Image Credit: Rottnest Island

Feel the breeze against your cheeks, bask in the warmth of the sun on your shoulders, and uncover countless corners of the island that would take more than a day to explore on foot alone. Riding a bicycle is one of the best ways to get about Wadjemup / Rottnest Island because it’s quick, enjoyable, and ecologically friendly. Furthermore, Wadjemup is a biker’s paradise because it has minimal vehicle traffic. You get the freedom to pedal along the network of roads and hills undisturbed, relishing the rare chance to immerse yourself in boundless space and absorb the picturesque scenery as you riding from beach to bay.

3. Skydive Geronimo

Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Skydive Geronimo is a skydiving centre that provides a tandem skydiving adventure like no other, commencing with a thrilling 20-minute flight over the stunning landscape of Rottnest Island. In the air you’ll be able to see stunning views of the rocky coastline, clear bays, and turquoise oceans below. When it’s time to jump from your chosen height, you and your tandem skydiving instructor will freefall at close to 200 km per hour. At 5,000 feet, your instructor will initiate the deployment of the main parachute, granting you precious moments to savor the unparalleled sensation of gliding above the island. Followed by a serene 5-minute descent, you’ll touch down safely on the sands of either Salmon Bay, Thomson Bay, or Bickley Bay.

Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia

4. Meet the Quokkas

Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia

After indulging in a plethora of adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities, it’s time to unwind with a leisurely stroll and meet the most adorable creatures inhabiting Rottnest Island.

The quokka belongs to the family Macropodidae, which includes kangaroos and wallabies. These endearing marsupials are characterized by their round ears and approximately the size of small cats, boasting a fuzzy appearance. On mainland Australia, quokkas face threats from foxes; however, their primary habitat on Rottnest Island offers them a degree of protection from these predators. Consequently, quokkas on the island are often spotted freely roaming around. Especially after 3pm, you can spot the quokkas coming out because they spend the day sleeping.

Quokkas on Rottnest Island are exceptionally tame, allowing visitors to take selfies with them from a respectful distance. However, it’s important to note that touching and feeding them is prohibited on the island.

5. Wadjemup Museum

Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Discover the rich history of Rottnest Island by visiting the Wadjemup Museum. Explore the recently refurbished museum and immerse yourself in a diverse array of exhibits, featuring ancient artifacts dating back 40,000 years, vintage postcards, contemporary artworks, and awe-inspiring outdoor sculptures. With over 17 captivating displays to explore, visitors can also enjoy a theatrette, audio experiences, and an interactive touchscreen for children.

6. Pinky Beach and Bathurst Lighthouse

Image Credit: Rottnest Island

To conclude your day trip to Rottnest Island, don’t miss the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunset at Pinky Beach.

Pinky Beach, which holds the title of being one of the island’s longest and widest beaches, is well-known for its excellent swimming conditions.

With the historic Bathurst Lighthouse as a picturesque backdrop, Pinky Beach offers the perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon. However, it’s the vibrant sunsets that truly draw the crowds. Renowned as the premier spot on the island to witness the sun descending gently over the ocean, Pinky Beach invites visitors to come for the day and linger for the sunsets.

Image Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Previously known as Pinky’s Beach Club, Pinky’s Rottnest Island is a place for relaxation with excellent food and beverages, located just up the stairs and over the dunes. It’s also an ideal spot to view the sunset while sipping cocktail and eating descent dishes.

More info at https://cit.travel/australia/western-australia/

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