Solo Traveller’s Guide to Rottnest Island
It can be daunting being a solo traveller and visiting a new place…not Rottnest though! This island has everything you need to enjoy a smooth-sailing and unforgettable day out. From iridescent sparkling seas to spectacular nature and sweeping vistas, you sure won’t get lonely on this island… and well—if you do—there’s always a smiling quokka around for company. Here’s how to spend a memorable day on the island, taking in some gorgeous spots, without overloading your itinerary.
Hillarys Boat Harbour
The team at Rottnest Fast Ferries make your trip over to the island seamless. Choose from multiple morning departure times, including one for early risers at 7:30am. Once you’ve checked in at the counter and collected your pre-ordered bike, snorkel and fins, all there is to do is kick back and enjoy the 45-minute glide to the island on one of their high-speed, air-conditioned catamarans.
Henrietta Rocks
The first thing you’re going to want to do is submerge yourself in Rottnest’s turquoise waters, and Henrietta Rocks is a top-notch spot to snorkel and swim. Fuel up with a coffee from one of the island’s many cafes before hopping on your bike and riding along the scenic roads to get there. Twenty metres from the shore, snorkellers can spot the ‘Shark’ shipwreck; this is the wreckage of an old hopper barge which attracts an abundance of marine life.
Parker Point
Post-swim, continue along the well-paved bikeways to Parker Point while admiring the breathtaking sea views. Revel in the sweeping vistas over the glittering waters and out to the horizon where you can spot the silhouette of Perth’s towering skyscrapers. Another striking snorkel spot, Parker Point offers an 800-metre-long snorkel trail with twelve plaques providing information about the surrounding flora and fauna.
Salmon Bay
Now it’s time for a leisurely sunbake…and another swim if you’re a water baby! Continue on your picturesque coastal bike ride to Salmon Bay. With its long, white, sandy beach and crystal-clear waters, this spot offers up the perfect place to unwind and bask in ultimate relaxation.
Lunch at the Settlement
After your morning activities, you’re bound to have worked up an appetite, so head back to The Settlement for lunch. There are plenty of food and drink options on offer here, ranging from takeaways to sit-down meals, plus ice-cream and baked goods. And don’t worry, even as a solo traveller, you won’t be having lunch alone—you’re bound to have a friendly quokka sitting nearby. Note: you can have a chat to the quokkas but please do not feed or touch them.
Bathurst Lighthouse
Now it’s time to hop back on your bike for more adventuring. Bathurst Lighthouse is positioned overlooking the stunning Pinky Point and is an awesome spot to take a snap of your day at Rottnest. The lighthouse is steeped in history and first shone its bright light across the seas in 1900.
The Basin
Last but not least, head to The Basin as your final spot to unwind. On the beach, the overhanging rocks provide the perfect shade to lounge under and read a book. The Basin’s still, lagoon-like waters provide the ultimate bed to lie like a starfish and watch the clouds drift by above.
You don’t need to have a travel companion to enjoy the many wonders of Rottnest. With its epic nature, sparkling waters, abundance of activities, and friendly quokkas, the island makes for the ultimate solo traveller’s day out.
Author: Delila Bevan Zavadsky @delilabevanzavadsky
