Cycling Trail Adventure: Beaches, a Lighthouse and Lakes

Embark on this scenic cycle loop and encounter picturesque beaches, a historic lighthouse, and shimmering salt lakes with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore.

5 minutes

Cycling around Rottnest Island isn't just a mode of transport, it's an immersive journey that promises uninterrupted moments of awe and wonder.

With a network of roads weaving across the island, all you need to do is ready your wheels, pack up some sustenance and pick a direction for a guaranteed day of scenic bliss by bike. While the island offers up plenty of opportunity for free-style adventuring at your own pace, this 10 km loop trail is the perfect tried-and-tested itinerary to guide your immersion in the island’s natural beauty for the day.

The beaches, lighthouse and lakes cycle trail

Distance: 10 km
Time: 1.5 - 3 hours

Embark on the Beaches, Lighthouses, and Lakes cycle trail for a deeper look into the unique terrain of Rottnest Island. Spanning a comfortable 10 km loop, this route offers a leisurely biking experience that allows you to soak in the island’s spectacular natural sights. Depending on your pace and itch for exploration, expect to spend anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours pedalling along the coast and inland, with ample opportunities to pause and soak in the island’s offerings.

Be safe and have fun

Take care when cycling on Wadjemup. Even though there aren’t many vehicles, the hills can get steep and the roads are winding. Make sure to always wear a helmet when riding a bike—it’s mandatory as part of Western Australian law.

Main settlement to Bickley Battery

Kick off your pedalling adventure from the main settlement, ensuring you’ve stocked up on snacks from The General Store or Rottnest Bakery for a well-deserved picnic on your travels. From there, cycle south and make a pit stop at Kingstown Barracks and Bickley Battery, where you can delve into the island's military history, exploring the area on foot before jumping back on your bike.

Bickley Battery to Jeannie's Lookout

As you continue southward, the trail unfolds to reveal some of Rottnest Island’s most picturesque beaches, each beckoning with its own unique charm. Henrietta Rocks and Parker Point stand out among the highlights, particularly for avid snorkellers eager to stop and explore the wonders beneath the waves. At Henrietta Rocks, an intriguing shipwreck awaits just 50 metres offshore, nestled in the lush seagrass teeming with diverse marine life. Meanwhile, Parker Point boasts an informative snorkel trail with interpretive plaques embedded in the sea floor. Follow the signs underwater to gather insight into the curious creatures that inhabit the surrounded waters. Keep an eye out for striking pink coral and brightly coloured nudibranchs.

If a snorkelling session isn’t on your wish list for today, simply pause for a moment to admire the coastal views. Then, when you’re ready– because this is your time to slow down – continue your journey towards the island’s southern-most tip. Along the way, make a stop at Jeannie’s Lookout. This serene vantage point overlooks Jeannie’s Pool, tucked within the rocky shores below. This tranquil cove boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters that reveal an intricate reef system, inviting contemplation and appreciation of nature’s wonders.

Cycling along the southern side

Bickley Battery from above

Henrietta Rocks from above

Stop at Jeannie's Lookout

Snorkel at Parker Point

Jeannie's Lookout to Wadjemup Lighthouse

Continuing along the coast, you’ll soon reach the iconic Salmon Bay. Here you can see your next destination in the distance, Wadjemup Lighthouse. As the lighthouse beckons, your ride veers inland towards Wadjemup Hill – the island’s highest point. Keep an eye out for the quokkas in the cluster of trees, their presence adding a touch of charm to the landscape. The pedal up Wadjemup Hill is a steady one, but once you’ve conquered it, the summit offers a perfect spot to catch your breath and take in the panoramic views.

Wadjemup Lighthouse stands as an integral part of the island’s maritime history, its construction dating back to 1896. Take this opportunity to join a tour inside the lighthouse, where a Rottnest Voluntary Guide will lead you up the 155 spiralling stairs, offering insight into the workings of the lighthouse that still functions today. At the top, be rewarded with 360-degree views that span the island’s rugged coastline and the winding cycle paths you pedalled to get here.

After descending the stairs of Wadjemup Lighthouse, treat yourself to a well-deserved break at Kalli’s on Rotto, conveniently located opposite the lighthouse. Here, you can indulge in a refreshing drink and bite to eat as you relax in one of the deckchairs while enjoying the panoramic views of the island. It’s a welcome moment to recharge before hopping back on your bike.

Wadjemup Lighthouse in the distance

Salmon Bay

View from Wadjemup Lighthouse

View from the top of Wadjemup Lighthouse

Wadjemup Lighthouse precinct

Kalli's on Rotto

Wadjemup Lighthouse to the Main Settlement

It’s time to hop back on your bike and resume your adventure back to the settlement. As you pedal away from the lighthouse, follow Digby Drive all the way back to the main settlement where you’ll weave through the island’s network of mirrored lakes and wetlands, a tranquil oasis nestled amidst the island’s rugged terrain.

Embrace the serenity as you glide past the waters of the lakes, their surfaces reflecting the surrounding landscape like glass. For an even closer encounter with nature’s peacefulness, we recommend pausing here to wander along the boardwalks that meander through the wetlands. With each step, you’ll feel as though you’re walking on water.

These wetlands serve as a sanctuary for a diverse array of birdlife. Keep your eyes peeled for banded stilts, Australian shelducks, and crested terns, among other winged residents that call this habitat home.

As you pedal onwards towards the settlement, let the beauty of the wetlands linger in your memory. Whether you’re drawn to the island’s rich history, pristine beaches, or inland lake systems, this cycle trail promises a memorable journey filled with discovery and wonder at every turn. So, hop on your bike, soak in the island breeze, and let the journey unfold.

Salt lakes

Salt lakes and sand dunes

View to Wadjemup Lighthouse over the lakes

A habitat for birds

Aerial view of boardwalk

Stick to the island paths

The roads and cycle paths are designed to give you a full experience of the island with minimal impact on the native environment. You can help by staying on the roads and watching wildlife go about their natural movements.

Hire everything you need

Whether you prefer to bring your own bike aboard the ferry, opt for rentals from your ferry operator, or secure your gear in advance from Pedal & Flipper Hire, planning ahead ensures a seamless start to your cycling adventure on Rottnest Island. Conveniently situated on the island itself, Pedal & Flipper Hire offers a comprehensive selection of bicycles to suit every rider’s needs.