If you’re thinking about visiting Rottnest Island but can’t quite tell if a trip there will be worth it, this post will help you decide if you should go. Booking a boat, getting to the harbour and then renting bikes or getting bus tickets on the island can be a lot of work and involve quite some money.
Whether you’re short on time during your trip to Perth, or aren’t sure if you should be spending the extra money on a trip to Rottnest Island, these reasons to visit and travel tips for Rottnest Island will help you decide if it’s worth visiting for you.
Not all travellers are the same, and while one person might really enjoy Rottnest Island, it may not be worth it for another. We’ll help you decide and share all you need to know before you plan your trip.
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Why you can trust this article about Rottnest Island
Hi, my name is Victoria and I’m your new go-to source for travel tips about Australia. I’ve lived in this beautiful country for several years and Perth is very special to me since I went to university here.
Rottnest Island was one of my favourite places to go on weekends, and I’ve visited the island with family, friends, as a backpacker and a solo traveller.
Having been here multiple times during different seasons and both overnight and on a day trip, I can tell you all about this beautiful island and if it’s worth visiting.
I’m already planning my next trip to Western Australia, and I’ll tell you all about my past experiences in this post.
Is Rottnest Island worth visiting?
Let’s cut to the chase and give you an answer to the question if Rottnest Island is worth visiting right away. In short: yes, we think that a trip to Rottnest is worth it for the majority of visitors.
Yes, you’ll be spending a bit of extra cash, but so would you if you’re just exploring Perth. Plus, Rottnest isn’t actually that expensive, and you can easily see the island on a reasonable budget with the help of our Rottnest backpacker guide. It might be cheaper than you think.
But what if you only have a few days to see Perth; is a trip to Rottnest Island still worth it? We definitely think so! Perth doesn’t actually have that many things to do and see, and Rottnest is a true highlight, even if you’re short on time.
I’ve been to the island several times with friends and family members who were visiting me in Perth, and Rottnest was always their favourite out of all the places we saw.
It’s very rare that someone comes back disappointed from the island.
If you’re still not quite convinced, have a look at these top reasons to visit Rottnest Island:
10 reasons to visit Rottnest Island
Here are our favourite reasons to visit Rottnest Island in Western Australia.
1. To get away from the traffic
There are very few cars on Rottnest Island, and the majority of people get around by bicycle here. This makes the island wonderfully quiet and peaceful, and you can take your time to explore.
Nature feels far more untouched here, and the roads aren’t crowded. If you’ve been wanting to get away from the traffic, you’ll love Rottnest Island.
2. To see some of the best beaches in the area
It’s no secret that Rottnest Island has some of the best beaches in Western Australia, and many of them aren’t very crowded even during the high season.
If you’ve been craving white sand and crystal-clear blue waters, you absolutely need to visit Rottnest Island.
3. To meet cute quokkas
Quokkas are little marsupials that are native to Rottnest. They look like a cross between a rat, and beaver and a kangaroo and they’re extremely friendly towards humans.
You’ll find them all across the island and you’ll be able to take your very own quokka selfie that makes Rottnest Island so famous.
If you love animals and want to meet them in an ethical way outside of a zoo, this is the perfect choice.
4. For a camping adventure
Most tourists don’t know that Rottnest Island is a fantastic place to go camping, since the majority don’t stay overnight. If you have your own equipment you can stay at Rottnest Island’s campsite on a budget, and get to spend more time on the island.
If you’ve been camping in Australia, you need to try it on Rottnest Island.
5. To explore by bike
Bicycles are the most common transportation mode on Rottnest and it’s so fun to explore this beautiful island on two wheels. There are very few places around the world where you can enjoy biking around without traffic and enjoy nature in peace.
If you’re a bit sick of Ubers, buses and trains, why not try a bike on Rottnest?
6. To swim, snorkel or dive
Rottnest is surrounded by beautiful crystal-clear waters and incredible coral reefs. Dive into the deep blue and go for a swim, snorkel or even a scuba dive if you’re certified.
While snorkelling and diving aren’t ideal at many of Perth’s popular beaches, Rottnest is the perfect place to try it.
7. To learn about Australian history and culture
Rottnest Island has a very unique history and you can learn all about it at the Wadjempu Museum on the island. The local Aboriginal is especially fascinating and significant for all visitors, so make sure to educate yourself about what Rottnest has signified over the years.
Australia’s history is complicated, and paying respects to the Aboriginal peoples when you visit should always be a priority.
8. To relax and feel like you’re truly on holiday
Perth is a busy city, and even in the areas by the beach, you might feel unable to relax and escape the hustle and bustle. If you want to feel like you’re on holiday, you should definitely add a trip to Rottnest Island to your Perth itinerary.
Unwind as you enjoy the fresh sea breeze, have a picnic on the beach or enjoy drinks at a local restaurant. If you’ve been looking for a weekend away, Rottnest Island is a great choice.
9. To enjoy nature
Rottnest Island is known for its unique ecosystem and beautiful, untouched nature. From rolling hills to white-sand beaches and salt lakes, this island has a lot to offer. Enjoy the beauty of Western Australia’s most famous island and fall in love with the peaceful nature that makes it such an incredible place to visit.
10. To golf in an unusual place
If you’re looking for a more unusual activity on Rottnest, why not spend the day on the island’s very own golf course? Whether you’re a seasoned golf pro or a beginner, this is a great way to spend an afternoon outside with friends.
Enjoy the nine-hole course complete with a putting green and practice your swings on one of the most unique courses in the world.
Is Rottnest Island worth visiting on a day trip?
If you’re short on time, you might be wondering if Rottnest Island is worth visiting on a day trip. Our answer is yes, it’s very much worth it, even if you can’t stay overnight.
In fact, most visitors only come for one day, so you can be sure that it’s the right decision. While you might not have time to see the furthest corners of the island, you’ll have plenty of hours to bike around and see the main attractions.
Just make sure you go early in the morning to make the most of your trip.
Is Rottnest Island worth visiting in winter?
You might think of an island known for its beaches as a summer destination, but you might be surprised how many people choose to still visit Rottnest Island in winter. While you won’t be able to enjoy swimming as much during the colder season, the island is actually far less crowded during this time.
As long as you go on a sunny day, you can still enjoy the natural beauty of the island and do pretty much the same things you would do in summer. Cycle around, get lunch in a local restaurant, visit the island’s lighthouses and take quokka selfies. In fact, you’ll generally be able to see more quokkas during the winter than in summer, as there will be fewer tourists around.
Accommodation prices are also usually more affordable during this time, so it’s a great choice if you’re visiting Rottnest on a budget.
Is Rottnest Island worth visiting when it’s raining?
Most of the things to do and see in Rottnest are outdoors, so coming to the island on a rainy day is not ideal. If the weather report is predicting heavy rains all day, we don’t think a trip to Rottnest would be worth it, so maybe consider rescheduling if possible.
Unless you don’t mind biking around in the rain, the experience won’t be as nice as it could be, and you’re probably better off visiting some museums around Perth and Fremantle instead.
If yu do arrive in Rottnest and it’s raining, it’s recommended to take the bus around the island instead of renting a bike, which will at least allow you to see the main sights without getting wet.
Note that during heavy storms, boats to the island may be cancelled, so double-check before you go.
Who would enjoy a trip to Rottnest Island?
We think that almost every type of traveller will enjoy a trip to Rottnest Island, including backpackers, couples, families and seniors. You can adjust your trip depending on personal preferences and mobility and choose to take the bus or bicycles around the island.
Backpackers should consider camping or coming on a day trip and possibly bringing a picnic to save money. Families might enjoy staying overnight at a local hotel to have more time to enjoy the beaches and explore.
Seniors or those with limited ability to ride a bicycle should definitely take the bus around. Note that the local buses are wheelchair accessible, but you need to call ahead and let them know in advance.
Reasons NOT to visit Rottnest Island
There are plenty of reasons to visit Rottnest, but also some why you shouldn’t. Definitely don’t visit Rottnest Island if you’re looking for nightlife or parties. The island is extremely quiet and peaceful and everything shuts early. The campsite has strict rules about noise, so don’t come here for a wild night out.
As mentioned, coming to Rottnest Island during heavy rains is also not recommended.
Most things to do on the island are nature-based, and if you’re not someone who enjoys being outside, Rottnest might not be for you.
Also, don’t expect too much luxury on the island. Most accommodations are basic with only a few more upscale options and facilities on the island are not those of a luxury holiday. You’ll find a much better selection of high-end hotels and fancy restaurants on the mainland.
Is Rottnest Island worth visiting FAQ
Rottnest Island is definitely worth visiting for its beautiful beaches, cute quokkas and stunning nature.
Backpackers should visit Rottnest and camp on the island if they’re on a budget.
Rottnest Island can be beautiful in winter as long as it’s a sunny day.
Before you go…
You’re ready to visit Rottnest Island and hopefully we’ve helped you figure out if coming here is worth it.
Before you go, make sure to check out our other Perth and Western Australia posts, such as our Perth transport guide, our Fremantle prison tour review, and our guide to the best campsites in Bremer Bay and Coral Bay.
You might also enjoy this road trip from Perth to Albany or Perth to Kalbarri.
Did we miss anything?
If you have any questions or feel like something is missing from this post please leave a comment below or contact us.
