Fall in love with the beaches of Rottnest Island
From popular beaches to quiet coves, you are guaranteed to find a favourite spot on Wadjemup.
4 minutes
The Basin
Wadjemup / Rottnest Island is home to 63 spectacular beaches and 20 beautiful bays, each one with its own special charm. From wide, stretching expanses of white sand to quiet, private coves, you will find your dream beach on Rottnest Island. Here’s just a few of our favourites.
Go clockwise
We recommend exploring the island in a clockwise direction as usually the southern beaches are the most sheltered from wind in the morning, while the northern coast is preferable in the afternoon. This is also the direction of the Island Explorer bus.
Thomson Bay
Access by bike or walking
Thomson Bay is where your ferry arrives on the island, giving you a first glimpse of a Rottnest Island beach. This long, sandy beach runs along the front of the restaurants and accommodation, so it's the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee or let the kids have a run around before lunch. Keep your eyes on the water - green turtles and friendly stingrays can be spotted in the shallows here thanks to the tropical Leeuwin Current.
Henrietta Rocks
Access by bike, walking or Island Explorer bus
Henrietta Rocks is an interesting beach for explorers. The lookout point offers expansive views across the ocean and if you look closely, you can see the wreck of the barge Shark under the surface of the water. Head down the steps and enjoy fine white sand and rugged outcrops hugging the coastline, before snorkelling over the wreck just a short distance from the shore.
Parker Point
Access by bike, walking or Island Explorer bus
With its iconic staircase and clear turquoise waters, Parker Point is always a favourite with visitors. The moored boats inspire picture-perfect views across the water, and it’s a popular place to take a refreshing dip or snorkel to see the beauty of the marine sanctuary here up close.
Parker Point
Cycling, Thomson Bay
Henrietta Rocks
Strickland Bay
Access by bike, walking or Island Explorer bus
If you’re chasing a blue water high on Wadjemup, Strickland Bay is a popular spot, even visited by world surf league champions! Strickland Bay curves along the south side of the narrow neck (the isthmus) of Rottnest Island, providing space to stretch out and enjoy the surf. If you’re catching the bus, disembark at Stop 10 and walk ten minutes down the sandy track.
Rocky Bay
Access by bike, walking or Island Explorer bus
This beach is located on the northern side of the narrow isthmus (or neck) that connects the two ends of Rottnest Island. Looking a little different to other beaches on the island, Rocky Bay features sweeping sand dunes. If you’re using the Island Explorer Bus, hop off at Narrow Neck (Stop 13) and walk down the Rocky Bay beach access path.
Ricey Beach
Access by bike, walking or Island Explorer bus
Ricey Beach is a secluded gem, with calm, shimmering waters. This beach is normally a little quieter as it’s further from Thomson Bay settlement, so you’re bound to find a sandy spot just for you.
Little Armstrong Bay
Access by bike, walking or Island Explorer bus
If you want to enjoy some of the island’s best snorkelling, head to Little Armstrong Bay. The surrounding marine sanctuary zone and rocky outcrops are home to sea life you won’t find anywhere else along the island’s coastline – think large schooling fish and a maze of reefs and seagrasses.
Little Parakeet Bay
Access by bike, walking or Island Explorer bus
Little Parakeet Bay is easily accessible from Geordie Bay. It’s usually sheltered, with still, glassy water that’s perfect for snorkelling. A popular choice with visitors, this small cove is a firm favourite for the afternoons.
Geordie Bay
Access by bike, walking or Island Explorer bus
Geordie Bay has one of the largest and most popular sandy beaches on the island. A number of holiday units are located here, which have unrivalled views overlooking the ocean. Geordie Bay also has a General Store and Café, so you can grab supplies for a picnic or enjoy a meal.
Geordie Bay
Little Armstrong Bay
Parakeet & Little Parakeet Bay
The Basin
Access by bike or walking
The Basin is close to the main settlement and an iconic location on Rottnest Island. This is a great place for kids or beginners learning to snorkel, with easy access to the natural swimming bowl or “basin”. Seagrass attracts a variety of sea life, so look out for fish and crustaceans.
Pinky Beach
Access by bike or walking
Pinky Beach is a local favourite, offering sheltered sandy stretches and an inviting blue lagoon. Close to the main settlement, it’s usually busy on warm summer days, but it’s easy to see why visitors love this beach. Look up and you’ll also see the iconic Bathurst Lighthouse towering over you.
Snorkelling at The Basin
Tips for a time well spent
Make your visit even more meaningful with helpful advice from those in the know.
