The arrival of autumn breathes a welcome sigh of cooling air around Wadjemup / Rottnest Island. During these months, the strong summer sun softens, offering bright days that provide the perfect backdrop to all island activities.
Autumn on the island
Autumn encompasses the months of March, April and May in Australia. March is the second and final month of the Noongar season of Bunuru and the first month of autumn. During this time, the hum of the island’s peak summer season is yet to dim with visitors still revelling in the mild temperatures. Come and discover a beloved bay or beach and enjoy swimming and snorkelling in the waters of Wadjemup before needing a wetsuit in the approaching cooler months. April and May welcome the Noongar season of Djeran, which brings cool nights and clear days to create a comfortable environment for you to explore without the crowds of summer.
Weather to expect during autumn
During autumn, the island is slightly cooler than the mainland of Perth, with average daily temperatures hovering around 21-26°C. Early autumn days are often warm with plenty of sunshine, but the mornings and evenings start to cool down and the westerly winds appear. Later in the season, morning dew drops form glistening gems on the ground, the daytime temperatures dip slightly, and the days come to a spectacular end more swiftly. Cooler conditions often make for calmer ferry rides, as well as more comfortable active experiences and increasing the likelihood of island wildlife encounters.
Autumn Guide and Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration? Read our guides to exploring the natural surrounds, wildlife sightings and historical experiences that are best appreciated during autumn.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Autumn weather offers an opportunity to comfortably explore the land and enjoy the waters of Wadjemup. The crowds start to thin after the busy summer period, but there’s still a lively energy that lingers with key events such as school holidays, the Easter long weekend and Anzac Day falling during this season. Generally, summer businesses remain open until mid to late April, making it an ideal time to experience all the activities available in summer, with fewer people around.
The mild temperatures and frequent sunny days during the autumn months create the perfect setting for island adventures. A Djeran day on the island can be spent hiking the trails of the Wadjemup Bidi, cycling to iconic lookout destinations, having a dip in the ocean and savouring delicacies from the many places to dine and drink.
It’s recommended that you pre-book your travel to the island, including meals and activities where possible, as school holidays and the Easter long weekend fall during the autumn period.
During the autumn months of March, April and May, the island is slightly cooler than the mainland of Perth. Average maximum temperatures hover around 21–26°C, providing welcome conditions for land and water-based activities.
Coming out of the summer months, the water temperature is relatively warm during autumn, particularly during March and early April. Average water temperatures around Rottnest Island hover around 22°C during autumn, making it an enjoyable time to enjoy water-based activities.
The average temperature over the autumn months on Rottnest Island are as follows:
- March: 18.8 – 26.1°C
- April: 17.3 – 23.8°C
- May: 15.2 – 21.2°C
As summer slips into autumn, explorers can expect the perfect blend of warm days and cooler evenings. The days continue to radiate with the sun's warmth, the waters remain inviting, and you'll find plenty of experiences on offer amidst a lively atmosphere.
Autumn on Rottnest Island brings a gentle increase in rainfall, with a monthly average as follows:
- March: 18.4 mm
- April: 32.6 mm
- May: 70.2 mm
These light to moderate showers create a refreshing atmosphere, perfect for those who enjoy a tranquil and serene getaway in nature.