Discover a world of wonder where curiosity meets exploration, and the thrill of discovery awaits around every corner.
Igniting curiosity and sparking excitement among young explorers is a breeze at Wadjemup / Rottnest Island. From special school holiday activities, train rides and adventure boat tours to the classic Rottnest Island experiences we all know and love, like quokka spotting and cycling from beach to bay, you won't run out of things to do these school holidays.
Every school holidays, the Rottnest Voluntary Guides offer a program of free activities and tours that will get the kids out learning more about the island’s natural environment, unique wildlife and significant history.
From detective trails and guided bike tours to sand sculptures, wildlife spotting and even stargazing, there is a whole range of options sure to delight even the most discerning of young explorers. Plus, don’t miss the popular Family Quiz Night held every Thursday night at the RIGC Clubhouse.
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Budding young nature lovers will be in their element on an island visit. Keep your eyes peeled for all the wildlife you may encounter, from the most iconic creature of them all, the quokka, to an array of birdlife like osprey and Australian shelducks, tropical fish if you’re exploring beneath the waves, and long-nosed fur seals if you’re out at the West End.
If you’re looking for an exciting adventure to enjoy with the kids (ages four and up), climb aboard this high-powered boat and take your pick from two exhilarating options that promise unique perspectives of the island.
The Adventure Boat Tour (operating September to May) is a scenic loop around the entire island, with expert commentary and the chance to spot an array of wildlife such as the long-nosed fur seals or even whales depending on the time of year. Or, opt for the Thrill Boat Ride (operating December to April) where you'll speed through the seas experiencing the natural wonders in the fast lane.
All aboard! Jump on the Captain Hussey Historical Train which blends enjoyment with education as you pass through iconic and historical landmarks along the southside of the island making your journey up to Oliver Hill.
On your arrival, Oliver Hill is well worth a visit before your descent back to the settlement. Constructed in 1937, the battery of two 11-metre 9.2-inch naval guns is now a significant heritage icon with an incredible natural lookout. With informative top-to-bottom tours with the Rottnest Voluntary Guides, inquisitive young minds will relish the thrill of journeying through the maze of underground tunnels to the Engine Room, an interpretive space complete with an interactive reconstruction of one of the mechanisms that powered the battery.
Dive into the curious stories of the past and discover insights about the island today on a free guided walking tour with the Rottnest Voluntary Guides. There are a variety of tours to choose from, suitable for all ages and with a focus on Wadjemup’s wildlife, heritage and sustainability. These are just some of the interesting walking tours to choose from:
Spend a few hours at the Rottnest Movies & Mini Golf to create carefree memories and unlock childhood ones. Challenge the kids to a round of mini golf as you're surrounded by the island’s native flora and fauna. With 18 holes, it’s the perfect setting for some good-natured family rivalry.
Feeling nostalgic? Head inside and play arcade games, shoot some hoops, pull pinballs, play air hockey and win some prizes.
If you're staying overnight, don’t miss a relaxing evening at the movies in the heritage-listed Picture Hall, complete with deckchairs and a yummy candy bar offering fresh popcorn, choc bombs and more. See what’s showing and session times.
Cycling is one of the best ways for an adventure-filled day of exploring the island at your own pace. With limited cars, it’s the ideal place to cycle around with the little ones. For the perfect island snapshot, try this 4 km mini cycle loop.
Bring your own bikes over on the ferry or opt to hire them on the island from Pedal & Flipper Hire where you’ll find everything you need. From bikes, electric bikes and children’s bikes, you can also hire bikes with child trailers and baby seats attached for transporting the smaller travellers around the island. Need extra gear? Snorkel sets, beach cricket sets, paddleboards, tennis rackets, and more are also available for hire.
Older children will love the independence that comes with these two-wheeled tours, which can either take you off-road to hidden reaches or around popular attractions.
Looking to explore the island without cycling or simply wishing to cover more ground in less time? Whether it’s for a unique tour or easy transport on the Island Explorer hop on hop off bus or accommodation shuttle bus, sit back and take in the sights from the comfort of a bus.
Feel a sense of family accomplishment by ascending all 155 stairs of this iconic island structure. Your guide will share tales of engineering feats along the way, before you marvel in the 360-degree views of the alluring Indian Ocean, island surrounds and on clear days: the Perth city skyline. Nearby, Kalli’s on Rotto provides a welcome place to park up and enjoy panoramic views with a warming drink before or after your climb.
Please note participants must be a minimum of five years of age, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Step back in time and immersive yourselves in the interesting stories from past to present. Originally named Lomas Cottage and built in 1871 for ex-convict John Lomas, the Wadjemup Museum for Children now serves as a gateway for exploration to delve into the island’s history and heritage. Stories come to life through artefacts, vibrant displays and interactive exhibits.
Make your visit even more meaningful with helpful advice from those in the know.
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