Rottnest Island is a popular holiday destination as an escape for the city dwellers of Perth, and also a great day trip to see the sights. It can be accessed by boat from Fremantle and Perth and by flight from Perth. There is a Visitor Centre in Thompson Bay where you can get information on the five Heritage Trails. These walks will show you the historic buildings, shipwrecks, the cemetery and native animals and birds. You can learn more about the history of the island at Rottnest Island Museum. There is also a tour bus around the island and an underwater boat cruise. Vlamingh Lookout gives great views over the island.
A unique attraction is the presence of quokkas, small friendly wallabies, which inhabit the island in large numbers. You can picnic at the Salt Lakes and enjoy the company of the many quokkas. Snorkelling and diving are popular activities as there are coral reefs and shipwrecks to explore. Fishing is also popular and boats are available for hire. Cycling is a great way to get around the island and see all the sights. Thompson Bay is the island's harbour and is the main place for accommodation. You can stay in a caravan park, YHA lodge, hotel or resort.
Locations Rottnest Island is located 19 km off the coast from Perth.
Activities Rottnest Island is great for swimming, surfing, fishing, diving, snorkelling, boating, cycling, historic buildings, coral viewing and the quokkas.
