The perfect family escape on Rottnest Island

Just a short ferry journey away, relax and reconnect with your family on Wadjemup / Rottnest Island.

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Whether you’re travelling with young children or teens, Wadjemup / Rottnest Island is the perfect place to relax and reconnect with your family. Here are our top tips for making treasured memories on a perfect family holiday on Wadjemup.

Ferry to the island

There are three operators running ferries to and from the island – Rottnest Express, Rottnest Fast Ferries and SeaLink – so find the departure point and timetable that suits you best. The ferry companies also offer free travel for children, so you can visit the island for less (conditions apply - check with your preferred ferry operator for details).

Where to stay

There are so many places to stay on the island, from budget-friendly cabins to self-catered holiday homes. Or enjoy an elegant stay at Samphire Rottnest and glamping at Discovery Resorts - Rottnest Island eco-tents on the doorstep of Pinky Beach.

Stay Rottnest Self-Contained Accommodation

Cycling

Cycling is the best way to explore the island at your own pace. Cruise through open spaces, surrounded by vibrant green bush and panoramic coastal views, with birdlife soaring overhead.

Every corner reveals a new, sparkling blue ocean vista – guaranteed to put a smile on every family member’s face. You can bring your own bikes or hire them from Pedal & Flipper Hire on the island. You’ll also find bike trailers, e-bikes, mobility assistance options, infant bike seats and children’s bikes, so the whole family can head off on adventures together.

Island Explorer bus

If you don’t fancy cycling, have a pram, or older family members travelling with you, take the Quokka Coaches Island Explorer. This bus service circumnavigates the whole island, allowing you to hop off whenever you see something that takes your fancy and discover the further reaches of the island. Kids will love the journey, marvelling at the amazing scenery along the way.

Snorkelling and swimming

Rottnest Island has an impressive 63 beaches and 20 bays with sparkling blue water, surrounded by protected coral reefs. The Basin, Little Salmon Bay, Parakeet Bay, Longreach Bay and Pinky Beach are perfect for children, with calm shallow water to play, swim or snorkel in. It’s also a good idea to chat with the team at the Rottnest Volunteer Guides Information Booth and the Visitor Centre to get advice on the best options for the day’s weather conditions.

Bike riding and quokkas at Rottnest Island

Cycle around the island

Explore by bus

Snorkel at sheltered bays

Playgrounds

Let the little ones roam free at one of the playgrounds while you enjoy a coffee. There are playgrounds on the waterfront of Thomson Bay, in South Thomson Bay behind Samphire Rottnest and at the Geordie Bay Café. Alternatively, visit the Rottnest Movies & Mini Golf where the kids (and adults) can enjoy a round of putt putt or play some classic arcade games.

Rottnest Movies

In the evenings, head to the heritage Picture Hall to watch the latest family blockbuster. Relax in retro deck chairs and visit the candy bar for fresh popcorn and homemade choc bombs.

Quokkas

No visit to Rottnest Island is complete without watching the resident quokkas as they roam in the wild. You'll spot them across the island, and can find our suggested locations here.

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.

Mini Golf

Movies at the Picture Hall

Observe curious quokkas

School holidays

The island offers a range of activities and tours that get kids out exploring and learning about Wadjemup’s natural environment and important history. The Rottnest Volunteer Guides holiday activity programs are published online before the start of a new school break, so check out what’s on before planning your trip or sign up to our newsletter below to stay up to date.