Beaches and Bays
Come and see for yourself why Rottnest Island beaches were awarded top Australian beaches by Australia’s prestigious travel guide ‘Explore Australia 2007’, and voted the ‘Top Destination to Experience in Australia 2014’ in the Experience Oz poll.
Home to some of the finest beaches and bays in the world, visiting Rottnest Island will be an unforgettable holiday experience. With a choice of over 63 secluded beaches and 20 bays, you will be spoilt for choice. With so many unique bays and beaches, Rottnest Island is a perfect destination for any water sports from swimming to diving, fishing and surfing. Or if you prefer to just relax, there are plenty of amazing spots to just sit and enjoy your surroundings. Some of our most famous beaches include The Basin, Little Parakeet Bay, Little Salmon Bay and Geordie Bay.
The Basin, with its shallow clear waters, is only 10 minutes from the main settlement and an underwater snorkelling playground. But if you are in a hurry to get straight into the water after your ferry, head to the sheltered waters of Thomson Bay. Based in the main settlement, it is very popular with families and has a roped off area for swimming.
If you venture out into the reserve you can spend entire days exploring the endless unique bays and all that they have to offer. Whether you cycle around or just hop on the Island Explorer bus, you are bound to find your ideal beach on the Island.
Quokka Walks – free guided walks!
Rottnest Island’s famous marsupial, the Quokka, can be seen around the Island particularly in the mid to late afternoon. However, for a informative walking tour with an educational focus, this walk leads participants to the quokkas natural habitats and imparts some interesting facts about this iconic animal
Surfing at Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island has some of the best surfing conditions and most consistent breaks in Western Australia. Strickland Bay, Salmon Bay and Stark Bay are particularly popular breaks for surfers, bodyboarders and stand-up paddle boarders. In fact, Strickland Bay has been ranked in the top 50 breaks in the world. Rottnest also has various reef breaks on both sides of the Island including Radar Reef, Cathedral Rocks and Chicken Reef. Waves off Rottnest can often be two to three feet larger than those at Perth beaches.
