Kaya Wandjoo Wadjemup. Hello! Welcome to Rottnest Island.
Rottnest Island, affectionately known as "Rotto", is one of Western Australia's iconic escapes. Just a short ferry ride from Perth or Fremantle, Rottnest promises plenty of adventures. With pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, friendly (and adorable) wildlife, and relaxing island vibes, it's the perfect place to take a break from studying.
For students wondering how to get to Rottnest Island from Perth, the usual option is a ferry from Perth city, Fremantle, or Hillarys Boat Harbour. Rottnest is about 19 kilometres off Perth's coast, and ferry journey time vary by departure point. Whether you are planning a day trip or a weekend away, this guide covers the essentials.
5 fun Rotto facts
- Wadjemup means "place across the water where the spirits are" in the Noongar language of WA's First Nations people.
- Rottnest has a small permanent population, but attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
- The quokka population is much larger - there are between 10,000 and 12,000 quokkas living on Rottnest Island.
- There are over 22 kilometres of bike paths to explore, and much of the island is car-free.
- With 63 stunning beaches and 20 secluded bays, there are plenty of chances to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe.
Planning your trip to Rottnest
Getting there
The best way to get to Rottnest is by ferry. Ferries depart several times each day from Perth city (Barrack Street Jetty), Fremantle (B-Shed and Northport), and Hillarys Boat Harbour.
Fremantle is generally the closest mainland departure point to Rottnest Island, with crossings of around 25-30 minutes. Services from Perth city and Hillarys take longer, so choose the departure point that best suits where you live, your budget, and your plans for the day.
For current visitor information, including island access and travel planning, visit Rottnest Island.
Rottnest ferry fare comparison
Wondering how much the Rottnest ferry costs and when it departs? We've rounded up the standard pricing from the current guide below. Prices and timetables are subject to change, so check the latest information before booking.
Our tip: Compare the total cost for your travel date and departure point, and look out for mid-week or off-season offers. Travelling outside peak periods can be more peaceful and may help you save.
| Operator | Route | First departure | Last return | Duration (one-way) | Adult same-day return | Student same-day return |
| Rottnest Express | Fremantle (B-Shed and Northport) | 7:30am | 4:30pm (seasonal 6:30pm) | 25-30 minutes | $84.50 | $79.50 |
| Barrack Street Jetty | 8:45am | 4:15pm (seasonal 5:30pm) | 90 minutes | $125.50 | $121.50 | |
| Sealink | Fremantle B-Shed | 7:00am | 4:00pm (seasonal 7:00pm on weekends) | 30 minutes | $86.50 | $81 |
| Barrack Street Jetty | 8:30am | 4:30pm | 90 minutes | $127 | $120 | |
| Rottnest Fast Ferries | Hillarys Boat Harbour | 7:30am | 4:30pm | 45 minutes | $92 | $87 |
All ferry tickets include the Rottnest Island admission fee. Extended returns are also available for longer stays. Booking online is the easiest way to secure your spot, as seats sell out during busier months.
How much does it cost to go to Rottnest Island?
Your total Rottnest Island trip cost depends on more than the ferry fare. Plan your return ferry ticket, island admission, getting to the departure point, food and drinks, and any extras such as bike hire, bus tours, snorkel hire or accommodation.
The cheapest way to get to Rottnest Island is not always the lowest advertised fare. Compare routes for the same travel date, factor in the cost and time of getting to the jetty, book ahead and consider travelling mid-week or outside peak periods where possible.
Accommodation
Thinking of staying for a few days? Rottnest offers several kinds of accommodation.
Located in historic Kingstown Barracks, this youth hostel on Rottnest Island offers shared dorms as well as private rooms. It's an affordable option for groups and solo travellers, and a great way to meet new people.
Yes, you can camp on Rottnest Island! The Stay Rottnest campground is a short walk from the famous Pinky Beach and features non-powered sites for up to six people in two tents
If you're staying longer or travelling in a group, there are self-contained options, from cottages and cabins to beachfront units and bungalows.
Premium Stays
Whether it's glamping at Discovery Resorts, boutique beachfront bliss at Samphire Rottnest, or pure indulgence at The Lodge Wadjemup, Rottnest has plenty of upmarket accommodation options for special occasions.
For accommodation options and current availability, visit Rottnest Island.
Things to do: your ultimate Rottnest Island adventure guide
There are plenty of things to do on the island to make your trip memorable. We have put together the highlights below to help you plan your visit.
Quokka spotting
Rottnest has the world's largest population of quokkas. Nocturnal by nature, these little marsupials spend most of their day sleeping or resting under shady bushes. Keep your eye out around the main settlement, or head to one of the places where quokkas are known to gather:
- Garden Lake
- On the walk to The Basin
- Near Bickley Bay
- Digby Drive before climbing up to Wadjemup Lighthouse
- Bovell Way on the cycle to Stark
Quokkas are curious and look cuddly, but they're a protected species and classified as vulnerable. You can snap a selfie - just be sure to respect their personal space.
- Touching or feeding quokkas is illegal
- Use a selfie stick or ask a friend to take your picture
- Avoid using flash, and don't chase camera-shy quokkas
Read our guide to quokka safety and conservation before you go.
Cycling
Rottnest Island is mostly car-free, so pedal power is the best way to beach-hop or explore the rugged interior. Whether you opt for the 4-kilometre Rotto Mini Loop or take on the 22-kilometre Island Ride, cycling is a great way to see the scenery.
You can bring your own bike on the ferry or hire one when you arrive. Remember to bring water, sunscreen and a hat - there is limited shade on many parts of the island.
Snorkelling
Dive into the crystal-clear, turquoise waters surrounding the island and discover the paradise beneath the surface. With hundreds of species of fish, green turtles, and colourful western rock lobsters, you are bound to meet all kinds of underwater friends.
Popular snorkelling spots include The Basin, Parakeet Bay, and Henrietta Rocks. For a guided snorkel trail, visit Little Salmon Bay or Parker Point, and follow the information panels attached to the seabed below. Bring your own mask, snorkel and flippers, or hire a set on the island.
Free guided walking tours
Get those steps in! Gain insights into the island's rich history and ecology with free walking tours departing daily. Head to the Rottnest Volunteer Guides Information Booth when you arrive to find out what tours are running that day.
Don't forget your water bottle, hat, sunglasses, enclosed shoes, and sunscreen. Walking tours are a great way to meet fellow travellers and offer a fascinating glimpse into Rottnest's past and present.
Quokka tours: see Rottnest by bus
A bus tour is a fantastic way to see the island's highlights without working up a sweat.
- Quokka Coaches Island Explorer is a hop-on/hop-off bus that loops the island, giving you the freedom to stop at beaches, historic sites, or the wild West End.
- Bayseeker Island Tour is a guided coach experience with commentary about island history and wildlife, stopping at beautiful lookout spots.
- Discover Rottnest Bus Tour is an air-conditioned tour to key spots including Wadjemup Lighthouse and the West End, with commentary and quokka spotting included.
Skydiving
Take your exploration to new heights with a skydiving adventure over Rottnest Island. You'll soar above the island's landscapes for unbeatable views before landing on the soft white sand. It is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
What to bring for a Rottnest Island day trip
A little planning goes a long way. Pack a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, swimwear, towel, comfortable walking shoes, and a light layer for the ferry ride home. If you plan to snorkel, check whether you will bring your own gear or hire it on the island.
Frequently asked questions about Rottnest Island
The most common way to get to Rottnest Island from Perth is by ferry. You can depart from Barrack Street Jetty in Perth city, Fremantle or Hillarys Boat Harbour. Ferry times vary by route, with Fremantle generally offering the shortest crossing.
Rottnest Island is about 19 kilometres off Perth’s coast. The ferry journey can take from around 25 minutes from Fremantle to around 90 minutes from Perth city, depending on the service.
The cost depends on your ferry route, travel date and any extras you choose. In addition to the return ferry, budget for food, transport to the departure point, activities, bike or bus hire, and accommodation if you stay overnight. See the ferry fare comparison above and check current information with Rottnest Island before booking.
Compare ferry routes for your chosen date, book ahead, consider travelling mid-week or outside peak periods, and include the cost of getting to the jetty when comparing options. Bringing your own water and snacks can also help you manage your day-trip budget.
Yes! There are hostel and dorm rooms, camping, self-contained accommodation and premium stays available. An overnight stay gives you more time to explore quieter beaches and enjoy the island at a slower pace. Find current options through Rottnest Island.
Rottnest Island has a small resident and working community that supports visitor services, operations and conservation. It is not a typical residential suburb; most people visit for the day or stay in visitor accommodation.
Ferry time depends on where you leave from. Fremantle services are generally the shortest, while services from Perth city and Hillarys take longer. Check the latest timetable before you travel.
Yes, as long as you give quokkas plenty of space and never touch, feed or chase them. Read our quokka guide before you go.
Ready to escape to Rotto?
Last year, we hosted our Rottnest Island Student Day, taking 1,500 international students over to the island for a day of music, fun and unforgettable memories. Our Entertainment Hub was set up on the island and kept us buzzing throughout the day with a silent disco and live DJs. Students had the opportunity to meet new friends from other institutions and make unforgettable memories while exploring WA’s famous island paradise.
But you do not have to wait for the next event to experience Rottnest. Grab a few friends, plan your own island getaway, and discover why Rottnest is one of WA’s most loved destinations. Whether it is for a day trip or a weekend stay, Rotto is the perfect place to relax.
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