Why you should try a Rottnest Island winter visit this year.
Striking coastal views through all the seasons, adorable quokkas bouncing around, and a few degrees warmer than Perth during winter.
If you think Rottnest is just a summer destination, think again, because it comes alive through the chillier months too- alongside some impressive discounts throughout May for guests travelling to the island until September.
Here are ten reasons why a Rottnest Island winter visit might have to be on the cards so you can See The Other Side.
A nature-filled hike
Perth-based tour company The Hike Collective knows a thing or two about scouting out the best hiking trails around Western Australia, and their offered bespoke tours give you the chance to choose your own route.
Winter is the time when nature comes alive on the island, so a hike to get the blood pumping on one of the island’s five unique Wadjemup Bidi trails is the perfect excuse to see it all.
Whale watching
August marks the beginning of whale watching season where you can catch Humpback and southern right whales migrate past the island, with guided Eco Express tours kicking off in September.
The dedicated tours get you up close and personal with the gentle giants of the sea, and run for 90 minutes with a high-speed boat ride giving you a little bit of a thrill on the way.
Find out more HERE
Baby quokkas
Say Awww.
The world’s happiest animal, and one of Rottnest’s biggest drawcards, there’s no better time to catch adorable quokkas bouncing about in their natural habitat than through the months of May to September.
But August is when you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for little joeys as they poke their heads out of pouches before taking their first hops in the world through September.
Big savings
During its off-season, Rottnest Island offers some pretty enticing discounts on accommodation, tours, and ferry rides over, with savings of up to 30% through to September.
It’s the perfect time to get the family together for a little mid-year break if you’re on a budget and enjoy the other side of Rotto.
You can explore all the season offers HERE
Take a Go Cultural Tour
As with any place you visit, it’s important to recognise and respect the history and culture of the land.
The Go Cultural Tour allows you to re-discover the island from the perspective of its traditional owners, the Whadjuk Noongar people, with a Welcome to Country, Aboriginal sand/water ceremony, and a journey through Noongar language, song, and storytelling.
Find out more HERE
Catch some fish
A stay or visit to the island during winter is all about the quiet little moments, where you don’t have a care in the world and can experience the peace and serenity of a crisp morning or rugged-up evening.
An early morning fishing expedition offers some of these moments, and there are countless beaches and headlands to dip into. Take your pick!
A Capture The Light Photography Tour
Budding photographer? Or simply wanting to up your skills?
Considering you’re at one of the most photogenic spots in all of WA, you’ll be able to grab some stunning snaps of the winter landscape. With the awe-inspiring landscapes, truly unique wildlife, and historic sites, Wadjemup truly is an inspiring place to acquire new skills and camera knowledge.
Find out more HERE
Hit a hole in one
Winter can be a perfect time to enjoy a scenic day on the green and get warmed up with a few swings.
Tucked away behind the settlement on your way to The Basin you’ll find the Rottnest Island Golf Course. It’s a combination of a nine-hole golf course, putting green, bowling green and casual licensed Clubhouse and venue with a pool table, upstairs function space, and indoor and outdoor seating.
Whole new views
See the island from a whole new perspective on board a scenic flight or put on a brave face and sky-dive from 14,000 ft to take it all in.
The Island Bus and Segway tours also run throughout the cooler months, so there are plenty of ways to get around and see it all as the wildlife and bushland come alive.
Catch a film
Layer up, grab some blankets, and head to the Rottnest Island Movies for a cozy night watching one of the latest releases.
At just $15 for adults or $40 for the whole family, it’s a great evening filler if you’re staying at the island over the cooler months.
Feature Image: @the_wa_wanderer
Find more things to do in Perth this winter at SoPerth.com.au