ATTRACTIONS ROTTNEST ISLAND WA

Famous for its laid back atmosphere and beautiful beaches, Rottnest Island lies just 18 kilometres offshore from Perth surrounded by the sparkling Indian Ocean. This is where the locals go to swim, surf, snorkel, fish and relax. Surrounded by coral reefs and shipwrecks, the diving and snorkelling is out-of-this-world. Rotto is a car-free zone and hiring a bicycle is the best way to get around. There's also the local Bayseeker bus that regularly runs around the island and can drop you at some of the more secluded beaches and surf breaks. There are 63 bays to choose from, meaning you can often find a stretch of sand all to yourself. The island's fascinating history is brought to life in guided tours that detail its past as a former Aboriginal prison and also its role in Australia's World War II military defence system. Underground tunnels, the lighthouse and colonial buildings are worth exploring. Watch out for the quokkas, the cute marsupials which were the inspiration for the island's name. Accommodation-wise there is something to suit everyone's budget, from beachfront villas to tent sites. Get to Rottnest Island on a 30-40 minute boat ride from Fremantle, Perth or Hillarys Boat Harbour.

Located on the northern part of Rottnest Island, Little Armstrong Bay is a popular area for recreational activities, such as swimming, snorkelling and diving. Little Armstrong Bay is a must for snorkelers, as the area is unusual in that it contains habitats that are not replicated on the mainland. A quiet spot, Little Armstrong Bay exhibits soft sandy shores and crystal clear turquoise waters.

Little Salmon Bay is one of the most popular bays on Rottnest Island. It is a favourite spot for families as it is sheltered and calm and is also a great spot for snorkelling. Snorkelers can follow a snorkel trail to learn more about the different types of fish on Rottnest Island. Little Salmon Bay is easy to get to as it is a designated stop on the Rottnest Island bus route. If you prefer to cycle, it's only a few kilometres from the Thomson Bay Settlement. Simply relax and enjoy the pristine sandy white shores and crystal clear water that is on offer at Little Salmon Bay.

Wadjemup Lighthouse, in the centre of the island, was constructed in 1896. Standing at approximately 38 metres, it is the fourth tallest lighthouse in Australia and replaced the original 20 metre structure built in 1849 by Aboriginal prisoners. Three other buildings in the Wadjemup precinct, including the Signal Station, the Battery Observation Post and the Women's Royal Australian Navy Service, are intact and linked by self-guided interpretive signage. Wadjemup Lighthouse was constructed to assist vessels to navigate the channel between Fremantle and the island. Visitors will be able to get a glimpse of Perth City from the location of the lighthouse, as it was built on the highest point on the Island.

Fish Hook Bay, located on the western part of Rottnest Island, is known for its distinct shape, a fish hook. The waters of the bay comprise of an array of blues and the shores are soft, sandy and white. Fish Hook Bay is a sheltered area and is perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving, due to the abundance of fish life in the area.

Geordie Bay located on the northern side of Rottnest Island has one of the largest and most popular sandy beaches on the island. The perfect place to reside while on the island, Geordie Bay is home to several modern holiday units that overlook the stunning open ocean. While at Geordie Bay you can also enjoy a mouth watering meal at the Geordie Bay Café, or if you prefer to make your own, you can purchase all your groceries from the Geordie Bay General Store, conveniently located close to the holidays units. Geordie Bay is also prime quokka territory.

The Oliver Hill Battery is a significant heritage site and an icon of the home defence of Australia during World War II. It was one of seven similar gun emplacements built between 1937 and 1945 to defend major Australian ports from bombardment by warships. The main feature at each of these batteries was a pair of 9.2 inch guns, which could fire an armour piercing shell to a distance of 28 kilometres. By 1960, all of the batteries had become obsolete and were closed down. Oliver Hill is the only intact emplacement of its type left in Australia. Whilst the others were stripped of their guns, the then Rottnest Island Board was able to arrange with the Department of the Army to have the guns at Oliver Hill left in situ as historic site for island visitors. Apart from the gun emplacements, Oliver Hill houses underground tunnels, railway lines and paths and remnant coastal defence system structures. It is a 36 hectare site situated three and a half kilometres from the Settlement, in the centre of Rottnest Island. Guided tours are available and there is also a self-guided walk trail.

Vlamingh Lookout, named after the Dutch navigator Williem de Vlamingh, who landed in Rottnest Island in 1696, is located on the eastern part of Rottnest Island. Vlamingh Lookout is a great spot for visitors to come and admire the fabulous views of the Island. From this vantage point, visitors can observe the salt lakes and the natural beauty that the Island has on offer.

Cape Vlamingh is the western most point and most exposed area of Rottnest Island. There is no solid landmass between this point and Madagascar, 6,436 kilometres away. The Cape Vlamingh Heritage Trail at West End is a leisurely walk of about one kilometre which can be completed in about 30 minutes. Along the trail you can see the burrows of Wedge-Tailed Shearwaters, Quokkas, and Fairy Terns. Bottle-nosed dolphins are often seen surfing in the breakers. The plant life at the west end is very different to that found on the eastern end. Plants here include the Ice Plant, coastal Pigface, coastal Groundsel, Bower Spinach (a prostrate herb with berry-like fruit), the coastal Daisy, Sea Berry, Salt bush, common sea Heath and Wild Grape (mitre bush).

Relax and enjoy the latest cinematic releases at the Rottnest Island Picture Hall. Open all year round the movies are a great way to escape from the winter chill or relax after a day at the beach. Drop past the visitor centre and ask one of the friendly staff for the latest attractions and screening times. A range of snacks can be purchased from the candy bar.

Ricey Beach boasts a lovely stretch of coastline, comprising of white sandy shores and crystal clear water. As you walk to the shore on the silky soft sand, you are greeted by the calm waters and tranquil sound of the ocean. It will take your breath away! Ricey Beach is a place where you get to relax and enjoy watching your children play in the safe calm waters.

Parakeet Bay, a secluded cove, located on the northern side of Rottnest Island, is the big sister of Little Parakeet Bay. Ideal for swimming, the bay is known as a good, safe place for swimmers as its waters are shallow and well protected. Tranquil and peaceful, this enchanting bay exhibits pristine sandy white shores and crystal clear aqua blue water.

West End is located on the western most Point of Rottnest Island. It is a rugged piece of coastline, which unlike the rest of the island is not so calm and peaceful. Here you can gaze across the Indian Ocean and view the magnificent waves forming, a paradise for surfers. West End is renowned for scuba diving and for some shore fishing, but is not for the faint hearted, as this area has no protection from the elements of the ocean. Visitors can also view sea creatures in their natural habitat if they are lucky enough. Dolphins, whales and New Zealand fur seals are known to frequent the area and may come out to say hello, so make sure you have your camera ready. West End is a long way from the main settlement area, so if you are not up for a lengthy bike ride, the Rottnest Island Discover Tour stops at this secluded location.

Located on the northern side of Rottnest Island, Little Parakeet Bay is about three kilometres from Thomson Bay. Ideal for swimming, the bay is known as a good, safe place for swimmers as its waters are shallow and well protected. The majority of the bay is hidden behind the rocky outcrop, beyond which there is a larger sandy beach with crystal clear still waters. The bay is littered with jagged rock formations which make a dramatic backdrop.

Some of the best surfing conditions in Western Australia are found around Rottnest Island. Stark Bay in particular, is a popular spot with surfers and body boarders, looking for a thrill. Simply relax and enjoy the pristine sandy white shores and crystal clear water that's on offer at Stark Bay. Wave conditions vary considerably depending on wind and swell. Be sure to check the latest weather forecast before heading over to the Island, if surfing is on your agenda.

Located on the southern part of the island, Salmon Bay boasts a lovely stretch of coastline, comprising white sandy shores and crystal clear water, sure to take anyone's breath away. Suitable for swimmers of all ages, the average temperature of the water is between 18 to 23 degrees. Salmon Bay is the perfect spot to take a dip after a long hard day of trekking through the island.

The first Europeans took up residence on Rottnest Island shortly after the first settlement of the Swan River Colony was established, in 1829. Rottnest Island was considered to be of interest, as a place with potential for salt harvesting, farming and fishing. The European Cemetery, located next to the Rottnest Island Lodge, was used as a burial ground for the early Europeans who inhabited the Island. Today, visitors can visit the European Cemetery to gain a historical perspective of days long past, where the gravestones tell an interesting story.

Parker Point Marine Snorkel Trail is located on the southern side of Rottnest Island, a popular holiday destination 20 kilometres off the coast of Perth. The easy Top Trail features a number of plaques on the sea bed which allow you to read about the abundant flora and fish life in the area. The plaques are identified with buoys making them easy to find and are equipped with two handles to hang onto. As the water is a bit deeper and the swim area larger, the more experienced snorkeler would enjoy this trail, whilst less confident swimmers may prefer the trail at Little Salmon Bay. The water conditions on the trail are generally calm, clear and spectacular, allowing superb viewing of the vast array of marine life. Access to Parker Point is by Rottnest Bus or by bicycle. Rottnest Island is well known for its lack of vehicular traffic, just some service vehicles and the round the island bus. Therefore the main form of transport is bicycle. It's possible to ride around the island (26 kilometres) in half a day, but to enjoy the cycle stop off at some of the many pristine beaches along the way, including Parker Point.

Built by Aboriginal prisoners in 1857, the Rottnest Museum building was originally a hayshed and granary. Today the museum displays provide a comprehensive coverage of the main features of the Island, including natural history, marine wrecks, European settlement, Aboriginal prisoners, communications and recreation. The pilot boathouse on Thomson Bay complements the museum displays. The Rottnest Island Museum also houses a wealth of historical photographs for you to view. The museum is located behind the Thomson Bay Settlement Shopping Mall.

Located on the western part of the island, Strickland Bay has been ranked in the top 50 breaks in the world and is a popular spot for surfing and boogie-boarding for both tourists and locals. Each year, surfers flock to this spot to take advantage of the perfect water conditions, to help them perfect their skill. Wave conditions vary considerably depending on wind and swell. Be sure to check the latest weather forecast before heading to Strickland Bay for surf.

This unique swimming spot is a favourite with holidaymakers and each year friendships are made and renewed on the white, sandy beach at The Basin. Just follow the signposts out of the settlement past the tennis courts to this aptly named pool. It seems to have been scooped out of the reef, its clear turquoise water reflecting the white, sandy bottom. Surely one of life's true delights is to lie on the soft sand at The Basin, under a cloudless blue sky, watching the carefree swimmers in the foreground and just beyond in the Indian Ocean, a procession of pleasure-seeking yachts and launches.

Parker Point, located on the south-east end of Rottnest Island, is sure to take your breath away. Reaching the stunning shoreline, you are presented with an array of blues. Parker Point is the ideal location for recreational activities such as swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving. There is a snorkelling trail that will lead you to the plaques on the sea bed which will allow you to read about the flora and fish life in the area. The crystal clear waters around Rottnest Island make it a scuba and snorkelling paradise. Parker Point is a must see attraction whilst visiting Rottnest Island.

Bathurst Lighthouse, on the northern edge of Rottnest Island, was built in 1900 to support Wadjemup Lighthouse following the City of York shipping disaster in 1899, where 11 lives were lost. It is 20 metres high and in conjunction with Wadjemup and the Fremantle Lighthouse, creates a navigational triangle to guide skippers. The reef structure surrounding Rottnest Island meant that the construction of two lighthouses was essential to assist vessels to navigate the channel between Fremantle and the Island. Located at one of the highest points on the island, visitors can see the lighthouse and the breathtaking views on offer.

Experience the best of Rottnest Island on a half-day sightseeing tour by bus and historical train. Visit Kingstown Barracks, Oliver Hill Battery, and Henrietta Rocks shipwreck location, and keep an eye out for quokkas and other wildlife. You can snap photos of the turquoise bays and white-sand beaches that ring the traffic-free island, and learn about the history of the Aboriginal Noongar people.

• Half-day sightseeing bus tour of Rottnest Island
• Take in Oliver Hill Battery, Henrietta Rocks shipwreck location, and Kingstown Barracks
• Look for quokkas and other Australian native wildlife
• Includes live commentary from the guide, a light box lunch, and transportation

Enjoy a hassle-free arrival in Perth, Western Australia, with this private transfer service. Meet your driver at Perth Airport, and relax on the journey to your hotel in the city’s central business district. These private vehicles can accommodate up to three passengers.

• Private arrival transfer from Perth Airport to your Perth CBD hotel
• Enjoy private pickup by luxury car and receive assistance with your luggage
• Avoid the stress and confusion of taxi lines and public transportation
• Service operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week for all flights departing from Perth international and domestic terminals
• A convenient, efficient way to start your stay in Perth!

Pump up your Rottnest Island experience with a tandem skydiving adventure. You'll have up to 66 seconds of freefall time before parachuting for five minutes, enjoying views of the island and Indian Ocean. Then land on the beach, and toast your bravery with a provided drink at Thomsons next to the beach. A hop-on hop-off tour pass is also included so you can explore the rest of the island.

• Jump out of the plane with a tandem skydiving guide for a thrilling minute of freefall
• Enjoy views of Perth, Rottnest Island, and the Indian Ocean on the flight up
• See the sights of Rottnest Island at your own pace on a hop-on hop-off tour
• One drink included

Explore the protected nature reserve on an E-bike and pedal with ease along white sand beaches and coves. Look out for quokka, a small marsupial animal native to the island, and stop for a swim in the clear, shallow water at the Basin. Fuel up with a complimentary lunch partway through the tour.

• Cycle around Rottnest Island with ease on a guided E-bike tour
• See the white sand beaches and take a swim
• Complimentary picnic lunch and bottled water
• Learn the island's history and look for native wildlife

Rottnest Island is renowned for its beautiful beaches, military history, and dramatic coastal scenery. On this tour, zip along the coast and venture off-road on a fun Segway excursion. Visit key WWII sites such as the Kingstown Barracks and Bickley Battery gun emplacements, take in the views from the Jubilee Hill Observation Post, and stop at Paterson Beach, Henrietta Rocks, and Thompsons Bay.

• Stunning views of Rottnest Island from a Segway
• Choice of morning or afternoon tour departure
• No experience necessary: full instruction provided
• Small-group tour with a maximum of 10 people

The ‘Pink Lake’ of Hutt Lagoon is one of Western Australia’s most unique natural wonders and it’s even more spectacular from above. On this 70-minute flight from Geraldton, enjoy a dramatic aerial view, learn how the lake got its distinctive color, and fly over the historic fishing town of Port Gregory.

• 70-minute Pink Lake and Port Gregory scenic flight from Geraldton
• Fly over the startling pink-colored lake of Hutt Lagoon and learn about its beta carotene production
• Soar along the coast and over the fishing village of Port Gregory
• Choose from several departure times throughout the day

Explore the stunning beauty of Rottnest Island in air-conditioned comfort on this 1 hour and 45 minute bus tour with live commentary.

Take in the amazing flora and fauna of the island, whilst learning about the colonial and maritime history of this magnificent island.

A bit of a hidden gem just outside of Perth, the Bickley Valley has a world of offerings for wine seekers: there’s the Bickley Valley wine trail, boutique wineries, cider mills, distilleries, and rolling hills covered in orchards. It can be a challenge to see all in one day, but this trip manages to do just that, giving a comprehensive overview of the valley’s food and drink scene.

• Save time by seeing a lot of the Bickley Valley in one day
• Get extensive wine, whiskey, and cider tastings at boutique stops
• Don’t stress about organizing a meal, as your tour includes lunch
• Pickup and drop-off from hotels in Central Perth, Northbridge, and Crown Perth

Explore the Margaret River region’s gourmet food and wine purveyors on a full-day tour with a knowledgeable guide. Learn about the history of the region as your guide takes you to several different locations including wineries, chocolate and cheese shops, and a craft brewery. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a winery estate along with food samples and beverage tastings throughout the day. While on the road, relax in a climate-controlled minivan with round-trip transport included from hotels in Margaret River, Busselton, and Dunsborough.

• Learn how fine wines and beer are produced at top Margaret River establishments
• Visit different wine, beer, and food producers around Margaret River
• Savor lunch at a winery with the option to try Australian wild foods
• Sample cheeses, chocolates, and other treats