Skip to main content

Little Armstrong Bay, Rottnest Island

Little Armstrong Bay

A gentle cove to relax and reflect

Little Armstrong Bay is one of Wadjemup / Rottnest Island’s quieter bays. Rocky outcrops on both sides of the bay embrace a short stretch of beach, making it feel all the more secluded. These serve to protect the shallow waters from the southerly and easterly winds, making it a calm, relaxing spot for families with young children.

But while the perfect place to relax and unwind, there’s still plenty of adventure to be had. Excellent snorkelling conditions can be found further out into the bay, and the Karlinyah Bidi makes its northwestern pass right by the bay, providing the ideal place to take a break from hiking and enjoy the cooling turquoise water.

Look around and you’ll find

Rocky outcrops surrounding the beach

Snorkel the surrounding coral reefs

Uncover a rainbow of sea life

A key stop on the Karlinyah Bidi

Where to find Little Armstrong Bay

On the northern coast of Wadjemup / Rottnest Island, you can get to Little Armstrong Bay by jumping on the Quokka Coaches Island Explorer and getting off at Stop 17. Alternatively, hop on a bike and take the 12-minute ride — perfect for drying off after a swim.

Little Armstrong Bay, Rottnest Island

Snorkelling & Diving

Family-friendly snorkelling

You’ll find Little Armstrong Bay in one of Wadjemup’s five marine sanctuary zones, making it a safe haven for marine life.

With shallower waters, it’s ideal for beginners, with deeper waters further out in the bay welcoming more experienced divers. Diving under the water and swimming out through a maze of seagrass, the natural reef creates a home for an amazing array of colourful and curious fish. And thanks to its protection, you may even come face-to-face with some species of sea life that aren’t found anywhere else along the island’s coastline.

Learn more about Snorkelling & Diving

Little Armstrong Bay, Rottnest Island

Little Armstrong Bay

Frequently asked questions

Due to its secluded nature, Little Armstrong Bay doesn’t feature any facilities. The closest toilets and showers can be found at Geordie Bay, just a seven-minute bike ride away (or a 30-minute walk if you’re not in a hurry).

Little Armstrong Bay is just a quick 12-minute bike ride from the main settlement past Geordie Bay, or Stop 17 on the Quokka Coaches Island Explorer bus route.

Little Armstrong Bay is part of the Armstrong Bay Marine Sanctuary Zone, which helps to preserve the exquisite sea life population for generations to come. Shore based fishing is permitted by means of a rod and line or line held in the hand in certain areas which are sign posted. Taking of any marine flora and fauna by all other means here isn’t allowed.

On Tour: Guided Land Activities for All

Golf Course, Rottnest Island

A guide to golfing on Rottnest Island

Samphire Rottnest island

The perfect romantic escape on Rottnest Island

Cathedral Rocks lookout

The top five lookouts on Wadjemup / Rottnest Island

Stay a Little Longer: How to make the most of your day trip

Fall in love with the beaches of Rottnest Island

Little Parakeet Bay

Discover the Perfect Gift for the Island Lover in Your Life

Segways WA

Six Rottnest Island experiences for you wish list

Cycling near Little Salmon Bay

Cycle your way around the island

Embrace the Unexpected with an Ocean Adventure this Winter

Winter wonders along the Wadjemup Bidi

Uniquely Winter Wildlife Experiences on Wadjemup

Fishing at Rottnest Island

Your guide to the best fishing spots on Rottnest Island

Parker Point

A perfect three-day escape to Rottnest Island

Mary Cove

The perfect one day adventure on Rottnest Island

Boating

Set Sail with Rottnest Island’s Ultimate Water Adventures

Lakes

Winter School Holiday Fun for Young Explorers

Rottnest Island summer bucket list: 50 things to do

Eco Express Adventure Boat, Rottnest Island

Seven thrilling experiences on Wadjemup / Rottnest Island

Quokkas

Wildlife encounters at Wadjemup

40 Ways to Spend Winter on Wadjemup

What's open: what you can do this festive season

Cycling Trail Adventure: Beaches, a Lighthouse and Lakes

Surfing at Rottnest Island

Your guide to surfing Rottnest Island’s surf breaks

Wind turbine

Running an island, sustainably

The best sunset locations on Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island Bike Riding

Activities the kids will love these school holidays

Pink lakes

Seven things you never knew about Rottnest Island

Your guide to Geordie Bay

Henrietta Rocks

Where to snorkel at Rottnest Island: Six of the best spots

A guide to walkable delights near the main settlement

A Djeran Day at Rottnest Island

An unforgettable group getaway to Rottnest Island

Winter island nights: where to go and what to do

The Basin

Value-packed Rottnest Island Adventures guaranteed to become priceless memories

9 ways to experience the cooler side of Wadjemup

Your guide to hiking the Wadjemup Bidi

The island ride: cycle the entire island

The Rotto Mini Loop: 4 km of easy, scenic cycling

Wrap Yourself in Wonder this winter

Cycling, Wadjemup / Rottnest Island

One day itinerary for little wanderers

Staying cool at Wadjemup in summer

Rottnest Island Beach

The perfect family escape on Rottnest Island

Reconnect in the Season of Rest

Little Salmon Bay

Your guide to snorkelling the warm waters of Wadjemup

Things to do on a Rainy Island Day

Your guide to the wildflowers of Wadjemup

Your guide to spotting quokkas on Rottnest Island

View all guides & tips

Parakeet Bay

Little Parakeet Bay

Shallow water and calmer conditions make Little Parakeet Bay the perfect option for smaller children and young families.

The Basin

World-renowned for its crystal clear water and naturally hollowed out reef, The Basin is one of the most popular beaches on Rottnest Island.

Strickland Bay is home to one of WA’s most consistent surf breaks, and a popular spot for surfers from all over the world.

Geordie Bay offers enough space for everyone to set down a towel, open the picnic blanket, and spend the day by the water.