Over 60 pristine beaches and bays, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and untouched white sand, all accessible daily from Hillarys Boat Harbour.
Rottnest Island sits just 18km off the coast of Perth, but it feels worlds away. With no private cars on the island, no high-rise development, and a Marine Park protecting the surrounding waters, every beach here is remarkably pristine and accessible.
The island's unique geology, limestone formations, sheltered bays, and offshore reefs, creates conditions that suit every kind of beach lover. Families will find calm, shallow swimming spots. Snorkellers can explore vibrant coral and sea life. Surfers can chase swells at exposed southern beaches.
Whether you're planning a day trip or an overnight stay, this guide covers everything you need to know about the best beaches on Rottnest Island.
About Rottnest Island
From sheltered family bays to secluded surf breaks. Click any beach to discover what makes it special.
Most Popular
The heart of Rottnest Island. Thomson Bay is the island's main hub, where the ferry arrives, where cafes and shops cluster, and where the beach stretches wide and welcoming. The ideal base for a day of exploration, with walking trails leading to other beaches, historical sites, and stunning viewpoints in every direction.
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Nestled beside the iconic Bathurst Lighthouse, Pinky Beach is one of the island's most photographed spots, especially at golden hour. The adjacent Pinky's Beach Club means you can enjoy a meal and cold drink with your toes in the sand.
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Framed by coastal vegetation and accessible via scenic bike paths, Parakeet Bay is a quieter escape from the island's busier spots. The natural bush backdrop shelters bird species and small reptiles, and the beach tends to stay peaceful even during peak season.
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On the northeastern side of the island, Geordie Bay offers sheltered, shallow water perfect for young swimmers and families. With nearby accommodation, shops, and cafes, it's one of the most convenient beaches for an all-day visit.
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Rottnest's go-to surf beach. Strickland Bay draws wave riders with consistent swells and a dramatic limestone cliff backdrop, a geological showcase thousands of years in the making. The scenery alone makes the ride out worthwhile.
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A favourite among snorkelling enthusiasts, Ricey Beach rewards those willing to explore a little further. The water is exceptionally clear, with colourful marine life just below the surface. A quieter, more intimate beach that feels like your own personal slice of paradise.
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One of the most popular beaches on the island, and for good reason. The Basin is a short walk from the main settlement, offering calm, shallow, crystal-clear water that acts like a natural swimming pool. Rocky ledges and vibrant marine life make it a top spot for snorkelling.
Full Beach Guide →Use the map below to explore the island's beaches and plan your route for the day.
💡 Tip: Most beaches are best explored by bike. Pre-book bike hire with your ferry ticket and pick it up before you board.
Everything you need to plan the perfect beach day from Perth.
Rottnest Fast Ferries depart daily from Hillarys Boat Harbour, just 20 minutes north of Perth CBD. The crossing takes around 45 minutes and runs 7 days a week.
View Timetable →Hillarys Boat Harbour offers complimentary all-day parking. Look out for the signs and park for free while you enjoy your island adventure.
Parking Info →Once on the island, bikes are the best way to bounce between beaches. Pre-book your bike hire with your ferry ticket and collect before boarding.
Hire a Bike →Beyond sunbathing, here's how to get the most from Rottnest Island's beaches.
Ferries depart daily from Hillarys Boat Harbour, 7 days a week. Book your spot today.
Rottnest Island has over 60 beaches and bays scattered around the island's 19km coastline. Each has its own character, from the sheltered, family-friendly Basin to the surf-ready Strickland Bay on the southern coast.
The Basin is widely regarded as the best family beach, thanks to its calm shallow water, facilities, and short walk from the main settlement. Geordie Bay is another excellent choice, with sheltered water ideal for young swimmers and nearby shops and cafes. See our best beaches guide for a full comparison.
The Basin is the island's most popular snorkelling beach, with vibrant marine life just below the surface. Parker Point is also excellent for experienced snorkellers. You can hire snorkel gear on the island or pre-book with your ferry ticket.
Bikes are the most popular and enjoyable way to explore. The island has a well-maintained network of bike paths connecting all major beaches. You can pre-book bike hire with your ferry ticket. Alternatively, opt for a hop-on hop-off bus pass with Quokka Coaches. With 19 stops, the route services many beaches and lets you explore at your own pace. learn more here.
There are no private cars on Rottnest Island, which is part of what keeps the beaches so pristine. Instead, visitors arrive by ferry from the mainland. Rottnest Fast Ferries offers free parking at Hillarys Boat Harbour for all ferry passengers.
Rottnest Island enjoys a Mediterranean-style climate, warm dry summers and mild winters. Wind direction can significantly affect beach conditions. Visit our Rottnest Island weather page for current forecasts and wind direction guides.
You can book directly through the Rottnest Fast Ferries booking page. Ferries depart daily from Hillarys Boat Harbour, 7 days a week. View our ferry timetable for departure times.