So Perth Day Trips

Rottnest Island Day Trip: Linger A Little Longer

Rottnest Island is a day tripper’s dream, known for its stunning beaches and the iconic quokka. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-fueled adventure, gourmet dining, or a relaxing escape, a day trip to WA’s favourite island is a must for any bucket list.

From sunrise to sunset, linger a little longer at Wadjemup / Rottnest Island this spring and summer season. Take advantage of the late-night ferry service that invites you to extend your day trip so you can experience everything Rottnest Island has to offer.

Pair sun-soaked days spent sinking into the waters of secluded bays with relaxing twilight adventures filled with radiant sunsets, stargazing, and conversations over irresistible meals. Whether you’re reconnecting with loved ones or simply seeking a splash of adventure, every moment is a celebration.

Rottnest Island Day Trip Itinerary

This day trip itinerary connects you with the best things to do on Rottnest Island during the spring and summer months. Located 19 kilometres off the Perth coast, you’ll explore the island destination flanked by shipwrecks, coral reefs, and idyllic sheltered coves.

8:30 am: All aboard

Rottnest Island day trip
Credit: Rottnest Island Authority

The early bird gets the worm, so with only a day to explore, set your alarm and hop on the first ferry you can. Choose between the three operators that run ferries to and from the island — Rottnest Express, Rottnest Fast Ferries, and SeaLink Rottnest. Then pick the time and departure point that best suits you — Hillarys Boat Harbour, Perth City, or Fremantle. Depending on where you’re departing from, the ferry travel times are between 30 and 90 minutes, with Fremantle being the shortest option. There’s also plenty of convenient all-day parking available near the ferry terminals.

Alternatively, take to the skies and travel to Rottnest Island the scenic way by plane or helicopter with Rottnest Air Taxi, Major Blue Air, or Corsaire Aviation. You might even spot a whale or two during the migration season.

9:30 am: Cycle your way around the island

Riding around Rottnest Island
Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Once you arrive on the island, make your way from the jetty to Pedal & Flipper Hire to get your hands on some wheels. From coastal landscapes and pink-stained salt lakes to iconic lookouts, cycling is by far the best way to explore everything the island has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a standard pedal bike or e-bike, you’ll find something perfect for you.

If you’re looking for convenience and want to save time waiting in line, you can use the online booking system to view the bikes and book at least one night in advance for pick up the next day. 

1:30 pm: Visit the Wadjemup Museum

Visit the Wadjemup Museum on your Rottnest Island day trip
Credit: @creativespacesperth

Take some time to visit the Wadjemup Museum — a place for visitors to gather and learn about the rich, complex history of Wadjemup. From the Lighthouse Keeper’s jacket and Zephyr Scroll to The Memorial Stone, there are plenty of interesting, must-see exhibits to discover. Plus, with a new exhibition every six months, there’s always something different to explore.

3:00 pm: Time for a quokka selfie

Quokka selfie on Rottnest Island
Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Don’t forget to make a stop for a quokka selfie. During the season of Kambarang, you can see quokkas out and about around the island, and often with joeys at this time of year. Just make sure you respect the fauna by refraining from touching or feeding, and simply observe them in their natural habitat.

4:00 pm: Sunset drinks at Pinky’s Rottnest Island

Sunset drink at Pinky's Rottnest Island
Credit: Pinky’s Rottnest Island

It doesn’t get much better than a sun-soaked day on Rottnest Island. But for something extra special, you need to hang around until the sun goes down. Reflect on a day of discovery with one of the most spectacular natural attractions on the island — a golden sunset over the Indian Ocean. One of the best places to take in a sunset is the beautiful Pinky’s Rottnest Island, where you can even order a cocktail inspired by the dusty pink sky. 

6:00 pm: Rottnest Island Twilight Sail aboard Charter 1

Luxury catamaran tour aboard Charter 1
Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Activities on the island don’t get much better than Sunset Sailing aboard Rottnest’s famous yellow catamaran. After a busy day on the island, what better way to relax than a luxury catamaran tour aboard Charter 1. With Bathurst Lighthouse and the magnificent Indian Ocean as your backdrop, watch the sky come alive with a kaleidoscope of colours as the day turns into night. From the sound of the breeze in the sails to the complimentary bubbles and antipasto, it is a blissful golden hour experience to add to your Rottnest Island itinerary. 

Just note that this experience runs on Wednesdays at 6:00 pm as of November 6th.

7:30 pm: Lontara’s Signature Feast Dinner

Dinner at Contra
Credit: Rottnest Island Authority

Indulge a little longer thanks to Lontara’s Signature Feast Dinner, designed to highlight fresh and bold flavours. This culinary experience invites you to unwind as the sun sets over the serene waters of Thomson Bay. From just $85.00 per person, you can indulge in this multi-course feast, paired with your choice of a complimentary glass of house wine, beer, or sparkling. 

9:00 pm: Take the ferry back

Rottnest Express ferry
Credit: Rottnest Island Authority

All good things have to come to an end, so it’s time to ferry back if you’re not staying overnight. Jump on the 9:00 pm Rottnest Express ferry to B Shed in Fremantle to maximise your time on the island.

As of Thursday, November 14th, visitors to Rottnest Island will be able to enjoy the famed holiday destination for longer with a late-night ferry service. The service will see the last ferry departing the island at 9:00 pm from Thursday to Sunday until January, and then Friday to Sunday between February and April. It means day trippers will be able to experience the island after dark and enjoy golden-hour sunset views from some of Western Australia’s most iconic beaches and restaurants.

Stay the night

Stay the night at Rottnest Island
Credit: Rottnest Island Authority

​​​​If you want to turn your Rottnest Island day trip into an overnighter, the island is home to a wide range of accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re a keen camper, eco-tent glamper, or looking for cosy self-contained units or boutique beachfront offerings, there really is something for everyone.

This article was created in partnership with Rottnest Island Authority.
Featured image credit: Tourism Western Australia
So Perth Day Digital Trip Magazine
WA’s #1 Magazine to Day Trips Around Perth

Discover So Perth Day Trips Magazine, the ultimate free guide to Perth’s best day trips. Perfectly curated itineraries to explore hidden gems, top wineries, stunning hikes, and must-visit spots around Perth – all at your own pace.

Latest Day Trips