Australia is fortunate, for breathtaking coastlines surrounding it, so it has the most beautiful beaches in the whole world, and Rottnest Island is one of them. If you want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city of Perth, this magnificent island is perfect for you. Its accessibility and peaceful environment from the city are suitable for refreshing walks and nature-based activities. So, what makes Rottnest Island so unique?
Rottnest is a tranquil island that has unspoilt white sand beaches, and turquoise blue waters that will impress, and quench your thirst for adventures. It has scenic views and various attractions for everyone. They also have several island activities that will bring out the best of your mental and physical ability, and accommodations that will make you relaxed.
Here is an overview of the beach campgrounds in Rottnest Island:
- Main Camps
- Pinky’s Beach
- Ricey Beach
- The Basin
- Little Salmon Bay
Do you want to go on a trip to Rottnest Island? Read the entire article and find out more!
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How Do I Get To Rottnest Island?
Rottnest Island is around 24 kilometres away from the port of Fremantle. Usually, it takes 25 minutes of travel, 45 minutes from Hillary Boat Harbour, or 90 minutes from Perth’s Barrack Street Jetty all are accessible via ferries.
- In many ways of travel you prefer, you will have to book your ticket first before getting in. Prices and additional fees vary, and you cannot take your vehicle along with you.
- If you want to go on a tour around the island, there are buses that tour around the island or you can bring your bike with you.
- Another alternative is taking a helicopter or plane to Rottnest Island. It may be much more expensive than a boat, but if you want a more exclusive and intimate trip, this is the best choice for you.
What Should I Know About Rottnest Island?
Rottnest Island is situated offshore from the city of Perth and has one of the wealthiest islands in Australia. This historical island is moulded by its vibrant culture and nurtured by generations. The island was believed to be home of mythological creatures and features in Noongar Aboriginal mythology as “Wadjemup”, which means ”a place across the water where the spirits are found”.
In the 1600s, Rottnest Island became a temporary centre for European exploration and settlement. In 1696, a Dutch captain named Willem de Vlamingh called the island “t Eylandt Rottenest” (“Rats’ Nest Island”) after exploring the entire island for six days and mistakenly thought that the island had giant rats. But later on, he described the island as “a paradise on earth”.
As to how the Dutch captain described the island, it is a paradise on earth today. It is among the most visited islands in Australia due to its beautiful turquoise blue waterline white sands, and diverse wild and marine life. It’s a genuinely abundant ecosystem that makes the island unique.
How Are The Campgrounds At Rottnest Island?
The velvety fine sands are the perfect venue for beach camping, so you can unwind and enjoy your moment at the beach. Here are the best places in Rottnest Island that is perfect for beach camping:
Main Camps
There are primary sites that are located near Port of Rottnest Island and have various dormitory type of camps that can accommodate up to large groups. It is the perfect place to stay as soon as you arrive and plan your itinerary. There are Kingstown Barracks, Kingstown RAA and RAE Buildings, and Governor Circle that is well equipped for beach camping.
Pinky’s Beach
This camp offers a luxurious beach camping experience with a spectacular sea view from your eco-sustainable cabin and serves good quality food. If you love nature and peaceful scenery, there are more than 80 cabins that you can choose according to your preference. Their luxury eco-friendly tents will give you a good time sleeping under the stars that are perfect for an Australian holiday.
Ricey Beach
If you want a beach on Rottnest Island, that’s a perfect spot for swimming, and far from crowds, this beach is the ideal place for you. Also, the long stretch of beach is perfect for activities that your kids and even adults will love. The abundant marine life is evident in the area, and the calm sea will take your heart away! This area is perfect for pitching your small tent near the beach and have an extraordinary background of the ocean.
The Basin
This place is famous for tourists because the beach is suitable for surfers and anyone who loves water-related activities and beach camping. They protect the delicate vegetation in the dunes, and it is surrounded by the best surfing spots that mostly hold international surfing competitions. The Basin is a well-protected area, so littering is strictly prohibited.
Little Salmon Bay
It is one of the famous beaches in Rottnest Island and situated on the south side of Rottnest Island that is pretty accessible through the bike. If you want to be more adventurous, this is an excellent place for you because you can easily set up your tents, try the hiking trails, and go snorkelling. Also, the best thing about this beach is the excellent scenic view which peaks during spring and autumn.
If you want to know more about the campgrounds in the area, you can visit their website.
Where Can I Take A Bushwalk In Rottnest Island?
Rottnest Island is not just about the best beaches or luxurious campsites, but it also has trails that will challenge your stamina while getting the best views of the island. Here is the list of best trails that you can try:
Moderate Hikes:
- Ngank Wen Bidi is a 7.6-kilometre loop trail that approximately 3-4 hours of hike in the West End that is a centre of marine life in the island. The impressive cathedral rocks are visible while taking the trail in the island and a great spot to watch dolphins and humpback whales.
- Karlinyah Bidi is a 5.9-kilometre one-way track that takes 2-3 hours to complete, and you can experience the Northern Beaches. Along the wide stretched beach and the calm sea, making your morning walk will be exhilarating while watching its splendid view.
- Wardan Nara Bidi is a 10-kilometre one way that takes 3-4 hours to finish and relax on Salmon Bay right after. The trail is historical, and The Second World War guns and tunnels are visible here.
- Gabbi Karniny Bidi is a 9.7-kilometre loop that takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete. Discover the Salt Lakes while exploring this moderate track that provides a beautiful view for calm waters.
- Ngank Yira Bidi is a 9.4-kilometre one-way track that is approximately 3-4 hours to complete. Uncover Bickley Battery and other remnants of The Second World War.
What Are The Other Things That I Can Do At Rottnest Island?
If you’re exploring Rottnest Island, you should:
- Beach Camping
- Snorkelling
- Surfing
- Visit historical sites
- Visit marine protected areas
What Is The Best Time To Visit Rottnest Island?
Autumn or spring (October and November) is the best time to visit Rottnest Island, where the beach is calm, and the weather is ideal for water-related activities.
What Do Other Tourists Say About Rottnest Island?
Very Caring! On arrival on Rottnest Island, the first place we called at was the Visitor Centre, ideally situated at the end of the pier. The staff were accommodating, which made our stay very pleasant. Also, they can make bookings for most of the attractions, and the bus tickets. Our priority was a map of the island. There were some beautiful souvenirs on sale, and brochures were available. Call in when you go to Rottnest – it is worth it for the recommendations of the best places to swim and explore. –Jean D. (TripAdvisor)
Related Questions?
How Much Does It Cost To Go To Rottnest Island?
Prices for ferries vary differently. For adults, the fare is usually$67.50. For children, $42 (any child aged four or over) and $5 for infants. There are also landing fees which are $16.50 for adults and $6 for children. If you’re bringing your bike, there will be additional fees.
Is Rottnest Island Worth Visiting?
If you’re up for an adventure, a visit to Rottnest Island is a must. There are over 60 different beaches around the island, so you can find something that suits you. Its historical sites are visible to show the remnants of The Second World War and most especially, its abundant marine protected areas are lovely.
Can You Stay On Rottnest Island?
There are over 600 camps that range from the cheapest to the most luxurious one that have magnificent scenery of the ocean and beautiful dunes where you can stay. Typically, local fresh food is served in your accommodations, and there are also several activities and attractions on the island. To explore the entire island, you need to have a three or five-day tour to get it done.
Can You Walk Around Rottnest Island?
Yes. Rottnest Island has trails that will test your endurance and stamina. There are also moderate hikes with spectacular views around. If you don’t like walking, you can get bike rentals or take a bus that roams around the island and visit the tourist spots, fragments of World War II or walk around the protected areas.
