Rottnest Island summer bucket list: 50 things to do
The long-awaited summer warmth is here, bringing abundant daylight to explore. Let these ideas guide your upcoming Rottnest Island adventure.
8 minutes
Aerial summer island views
Whether you wish to while away an island day on land, by the ocean, or in air-conditioned comfort, here’s all that you can experience over the summer season.
Ocean adventures
1. Beach and bay hop: Find your haven at over 80 locations around the island, where the sea’s temperament is almost always serene.
2. Swimming: Dip into the tranquil waters of Wadjemup and find relief from the sun’s radiating warmth.
3. Snorkelling: Spot an array of underwater attractions, including shipwrecks and flashes of vibrant fish. Popular self-guided trails can be followed at Little Salmon Bay and Parker Point.
4. Rottnest Snorkel tours: Make your way around multiple snorkelling sites with this guided tour, designed for all skill levels and ages.
5. Charter 1 Snorkel & Sailing tours: Escape for a day of sailing, swimming and snorkelling on board this iconic sailing catamaran. With her vivid yellow colouring, she can’t be missed!
6. Paddleboarding: Take advantage of still conditions and glide over glassy waters. Hourly or daily hire options are available to chart your own path.
7. Surfing: Hire a surfboard rack for your bike (BYO board) and explore sheltered surf spots or more challenging waves. Surf conditions here are reliable for groms and experts alike.
8. Play a round of cricket: Beach cricket sets are also available to hire for some friendly competition on the sand.
9. Boat hire: Zip over the ocean in your own Boating West vessel, equipped for your desired day of adventure.
10. Deluxe dining on the water: Treat yourselves to a lavish culinary adventure with Rottnest Cruises, featuring seven courses of sea-to-plate sensations.
11. Eco Express Boat Tours: Kick the adventure up a notch with an exhilarating, high-speed boat ride.
12. Willie Cruises: Take to the seas onboard a restored pearl lugger where history is at the helm of this engaging day tour.
13. Plunge into the pool: Calling Discovery Resorts - Rottnest Island or Samphire Rottnest home for the night? Make the most of the on-site pools reserved exclusively for guests.
Activities on land
14. Cycling: Glide between bays all day on your choice of bicycle or e-bike. Be sure to make a booking before your arrival for a seamless summer experience.
15. Lakes: Head inland to experience the kabikarning (salt lake) systems. Marvel in these natural mirrors which reflect varying shades of pink during seasonal dry spells.
16. West End: There is an abundance of wildlife to spot here. Mammoong (whale) sightings are common until December, in addition to long-nosed fur seals and birdlife such as the yoondoordoo (osprey).
17. Yoga: Classes with Evolve in You are a new addition this season, offering a moment of peace within the tranquil surrounds of Thomson Bay and The Basin. Bookings are essential.
18. Quokka spotting: Like us, the native kwoka (quokka) likes to escape the heat of the day, so sightings are more frequent early in the morning and from early evening. If you’re taking the late-night ferry this summer, you’ll have plenty of time to spot them as they come out at dusk.
19. Wildflowers: Appreciate the bold blue-purple hues that blanket the island while the iconic Dek-koordiny-mart (Wadjemup daisy) is in bloom.
20. Picnic: Pick up supplies from the Rottnest General Store and park up underneath a shady canopy. Barbecue facilities are available around the island to cook up a flavoursome feast. Or, pick up some fresh rolls and a hot chook from Rottnest Bakery’s Chook Shack.
21. Mini golf: End your day with a sunset round on the 18-hole course under dappled light.
22. Volleyball or Tennis: Swing by Pedal & Flipper to rent a volleyball and net or tennis racket and balls. Compete in your tournament on the beach or visit the tennis courts at Kingstown, Bathurst or Geordie Bay.
23. Lawn bowls and games: Spark some good-natured rivalry at R.I.G.C Clubhouse, with barefoot bowls and free lawn games. Best enjoyed alongside a fresh serve of fish and chips from the new Chippies food truck.
Tour the island
24. Segway tours: For a unique summer adventure filled with scenic beauty, opt for a guided tour by segway.
25. Wadjemup Lighthouse: With 360-degree island views, you can witness how the land and sea change during summer.
26. Photography tours: Join Capture the Light and discover how to photograph the spectacular vibrancy of the island's land and seascapes in summer.
27. Cultural tours: Soak in the sights of the island in summer as you reflect and learn of its significance to the Traditional Owners, the Whadjuk Noongar people.
28. Scenic flights: Board a joy flight with Rottnest Air Taxi for breathtaking views of the island below.
29. Skydive: Get a dose of adrenaline with Skydive Geronimo as you freefall at up to 200 km per hour before a beach landing.
30. Walking tours: Embark on a free, short tour with the enthusiastic Rottnest Voluntary Guides, complete with fun trivia and fascinating stories of the island’s history and native wildlife.
31. Hiking tours: For those eager to wander further, The Hike Collective offer guided hikes that make it easy for you to explore all that’s here. Enjoy the island’s beautiful trails and refreshing ocean dips along the way.
32. Bike tours: Cruise along with ease on an electric bike with guided commentary as part of Paul’s Eco E-Bike tours. Want to unleash your own pedal power? Laura the Explorer offers a new day tour filled with bike riding, swimming and snorkelling, paired with island insights and lunch.
33. Bus tours: See more of the island without breaking a sweat. Discover Rottnest and Quokka Coaches provide air-conditioned comfort while you visit iconic island locations. Booking in advance is essential to secure your seats.
34. Historical train tour: All aboard the Captain Hussey train for a fun-filled journey! Enjoy scenic views and insightful commentary along the way. This delightful ride to Oliver Hill also offers respite from the summer heat, with shady seats and a sea breeze that rolls in through the open windows.
Slip out of the sun
35. Arcade games: Follow your sense of fun to the arcade, where games and great prizes await out of the sun.
36. Cool treats: Swing by the Simmo’s window at HAVZA or the Kuld Creamery truck at Geordie Bay for icy delights. Cool down with a zingy juice or smoothie from the Boost Mobeel, or a frosty acai bowl from The Lane Cafe. The kiosk at Pelican is a new addition to the island, now open for energy-boosting iced lattes and creamy soft serve.
37. Must-try island bites: A visit to Rottnest Island wouldn't be the same without enjoying Rottnest Bakery's famous jam or Nutella doughnuts. These sweet treats have delighted visitors for generations.
38. Oliver Hill Gun & Tunnels tour: Find respite from the sun’s rays underground as you weave your way to the gun’s ammunition supply and engine room.
39. Wadjemup Museum: Immerse yourself in the history of the island, shared via compelling stories and immersive exhibits.
40. Pilot Boathouse: Expand your knowledge of the island’s maritime history at this insightful site.
41. Shopping: Pop in and browse unique souvenirs and bespoke wares at Indianic Boutique and Island Gypsy. You’ll also find handy items such as bathers and hats, should you find yourself short of any ocean-side essentials.
Seasonal events
42. Live music: Relax with your favourite cold beverage and the sounds of local talent at Hotel Rottnest and Pinky’s Rottnest Island. See what’s on here.
43. South32 Rottnest Channel Swim: You don’t have to tackle the channel to be part of this iconic event. Come and cheer on the swimmers, as everyone embraces the celebratory atmosphere.
44. Christmas Day dining: Book in your nearest and dearest for an indulgent festive feast at Hotel Rottnest or Lontara. Different packages are available to accommodate all appetites.
45. NYE Family Fireworks: Ring in a joyful new year with fun family entertainment and a dazzling fireworks display at 8 pm. This event is free to attend but registration is required.
46. NYE celebrations: Share the anticipation for 2025 in your choice of lively island location, with ticketed celebrations unfolding at Hotel Rottnest, Isola and Samphire Rottnest.
Stay a little longer
47. Tee off: Experience the charm of a twilight round at Rottnest Island Golf Course with a special 9-hole offer. The setting sun creates a stunning backdrop as you work your way through the course, racing daylight to complete your game.
48. Catch a movie: Head over to the Picture Hall to relax your body and mind. Better still, every ticket will be paired with a free serve of fresh popcorn.
49. See a sunset: Witness the daily display of shifting colours over the horizon. No two days are the same, leaving a lasting memory to take back to the mainland.
50. Drink and dine: Those catching the late-night ferry can indulge in a variety of seasonal offers from the bars and restaurants you know and love. Plus, take the opportunity to sample fresh Mediterranean-inspired fare at Sunsets Rottnest, the latest addition to the island dining scene.
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Tips for a time well spent
Make your visit even more meaningful with helpful advice from those in the know.
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