Spring Into a School Holiday Adventure
Days arrive soft and sunlit during this season of new life, setting the perfect scene for a spring school holiday getaway.
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Family cycles
As the days brighten up, a visit to Wadjemup / Rottnest Island is a welcome way to spend the spring school holidays. Opportunities for adventure beckon at every bay and with each blooming wildflower.
Spring on Rottnest Island
Spring arrives in September, as the second month of Noongar season, Djilba, brings pleasant temperatures and longer days. After recent rains, the land wakes with vibrant wildflowers and peaceful birdsong. Trails wind and beaches glimmer with the promise of a quiet getaway without summer’s crowds. This special time of year also sees the sweet sight of joeys peeking out of their mother’s pouch; new life is all around.
Spring school holiday getaway
Western Australia’s spring school holidays run from late September to early October. During this time, daytime temperatures are slightly cooler than the mainland of Perth, hovering around 18-23°C. Warming sun rays make waters dazzle and invite refreshing dips – particularly after active hours spent enjoying the island’s natural beauty.
SPRING FAMILY ACTIVITIES ON ROTTNEST ISLAND
Go on a wildflower walk
At this time of year, salty air mingles with the fresh scent of spring flowers. Clusters of colour are bound to catch your eye, like the purple-blue of the island’s iconic Wadjemup Daisy. Head to Henrietta Rocks and Parker Point where the first petals may be starting to peek through the dunes.
Vibrant pops of orange, red, pink and sunshine yellow can also be found over the island, you just need to know where to look. Hike the trails of the Wadjemup Bidi and see how many different species you can spot along the way.
Spot quokka joeys
Delight in one of the island’s most memorable sights: kwoka (quokka) joeys! As the mothers hop about, look from a careful distance for curious, tiny faces that peek out of pouches. This once-a-year event is a special treat for families discovering the island together during spring.
Quokka Safety
To help keep the unique wildlife safe and healthy, please do not touch, feed or give water to the quokkas and always observe from a respectful distance.
Whale watching
Beneath spring skies, the sea offers a show-stopping sight. Let excitement grow as you gather around the island’s edges to spot migrating maamoong (whales). The WA spring school holidays align perfectly with the movements of these mighty creatures as they migrate between seasons. Cycle or take the bus over to West End, which features two viewing platforms at Cape Vlamingh and Cathedral Rocks, both equipped with binoculars for the best views for all ages.
Take a boat tour
Sprinkle some sea spray in your hair on board the Eco Express. Ideal for adventurous families, your tour takes you around the island under the warm spring sunshine. Let laughter ring through the air as the tour travels around Wadjemup’s natural wonders. Along the way, spot wildlife like the iconic yoondoordoo (osprey) and manyil (long-nosed fur seals).
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Lawn bowls and games
Spring sunshine calls for some family competition on the green. Make your way to R.I.G.C Clubhouse for barefoot bowls and free lawn games surrounded by softly swaying trees. When all the fun sparks a ferocious appetite, Chippies is serving up crunchy fish and chips fit for champions.
Pop into the Pilot Boathouse
Travel back in time to discover the island’s maritime history. Constructed in 1859, the still-standing Pilot Boathouse houses a replica pilot boat and historical photos, inviting visitors of all ages to come and look. Little ones can also learn how to tie boating knots here.
Head to Oliver Hill by train
The Captain Hussey train departs daily on the journey to Oliver Hill. Climb aboard and gaze out the open windows as the rhythm of the rails transports you all to this historic island site. It’s an adventure filled with fresh air, fascinating sights and imagination-sparking moments.
Grab a bite
In between all the exploration, there are plenty of places to stop for a bite. Grab some flaky pastries from Rottnest Bakery or fresh sandwiches from The Lane Cafe and park up at a picnic bench to enjoy your goodies. For a sit-down meal, Frankie’s on Rotto serves up crowd-pleasing sourdough pizza and pasta. To top it all off, Pelican is the perfect pitstop for creamy soft serve ice cream. Looking for more family-friendly eats? See all dining options on the island.
FREE FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
Rottnest Voluntary Guides spring school holiday program
The Rottnest Voluntary Guides Association (RVGA) run a program of free activities and tours for kids of all ages to learn more about the island during the spring school holidays.
Stay tuned for updates on the program and subscribe to be kept updated about new experiences, events, and specials offers.
Free Walking Tours
The guides also offer free daily walking tours year-round. Environmental awareness and historical education are a primary focus during tours, which can include wildlife sightings, stories of shipwrecks, sailors and past settlement workers, plus information detailing the agriculture, industry, geology, and marine reserves of the island.
Activities with the Rottnest Voluntary Guides
Tips for a time well spent
Make your visit even more meaningful with helpful advice from those in the know.
