Why Rottnest Island Is Famous for Its Beaches

Rottnest Island is renowned for its beaches thanks to its unique location off the Western Australian coast and its diverse shoreline. With no cars, limited development, and protected marine environments, the island’s beaches remain largely untouched, offering clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and exceptional water clarity year-round. The island is surrounded by coral reefs, limestone formations, and sheltered bays that create ideal conditions for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing by the sea.

What truly sets Rottnest Island apart is the variety of beach experiences found within a relatively small area. From calm, family-friendly bays and vibrant snorkelling spots to surf beaches and scenic sunset locations, each beach has its own character. This diversity makes Rottnest Island a favourite for visitors of all ages, whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquillity, or postcard-perfect coastal views.

Rottnest Island is renowned for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters and abundant marine life. With over 60 stunning beaches and bays scattered across the island, it’s a dream destination for sun-seekers, snorkelers and surfers alike. In this post, we’ll guide you through the top beaches on Rottnest Island, each offering its own distinct charm and coastal beauty.

1. The Basin

Located just a short walk from the main settlement, it’s one of the most convenient beaches for visitors. The beach provides amenities like picnic tables, public restrooms and BBQ facilities, enhancing the experience for families.

Its unique underwater landscape, with rocky ledges, rock pools and vibrant marine life, offer a fantastic snorkelling experience. While its crystal-clear, shallow waters create a natural swimming pool effect.

The calm and shallow waters make it an ideal location for families with young children, ensuring safe swimming conditions for all.

2. Pinky Beach

Situated near the iconic Bathurst Lighthouse, Pinky Beach offers panoramic vistas that are perfect for both beachgoers and photographers, especially during sunset. The lighthouse provides a picturesque backdrop, adding to the beach's charm.

While the proximity to Pinky’s Beach Club provides the convenience of dining and drinks right by the water. Guests can enjoy a variety of meals and refreshing beverages while taking in the ocean views. The club also features a stylish pool that overlooks the beach, allowing visitors to relax in the water or lounge on the sun deck.

3. Little Parakeet Bay

Parakeet Bay is bordered by lush coastal vegetation, providing a beautiful contrast between the sandy beach and clear waters. This natural environment supports a variety of wildlife, including bird species and small reptiles. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the sights and sounds of the surrounding flora and fauna while soaking up the sun on the beach.

The bay offers a sense of seclusion, as it tends to be less crowded than some of the more popular beaches on the island. The beach is conveniently located near bike paths and walking trails, making it easy to explore the island further.

4. Salmon Bay

The beach is a popular spot for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, catering to both beginners and seasoned adventurers. The bay's calm, clear waters make it an ideal spot for snorkelling, where visitors can explore vibrant marine life, including colourful fish and sea turtles. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are also popular options, allowing participants to leisurely explore the scenic coastline while keeping an eye out for local wildlife. Swimming is safe and refreshing, making it perfect for families, while beach games like frisbee and paddleball add an element of fun on the sand. As well as recreational fishing providing a relaxing way to spend the day.

5. Geordie Bay

Located on the northeastern side, Geordie Bay offers sheltered waters that are perfect for swimming, especially for young children and beginner swimmers. The wide sandy shores provide ample space for picnics and beach games, making it ideal for family-friendly fun.

One of the major perks of Geordie Bay is its proximity to accommodation and amenities, such as shops and cafes. This makes it easy for visitors to spend the entire day at the beach without worrying about packing too much or traveling far. Plus, the bay’s peaceful atmosphere makes it a calmer alternative to the busier Thomson Bay.

6. Strickland Bay

One of the standout features of Strickland Bay is its excellent surf breaks. The beach attracts both locals and visitors eager to ride the waves, thanks to its reliable swells that cater to various skill levels, from beginners to experienced surfers. The natural contours of the beach create ideal conditions, making it a go-to destination for surf enthusiasts.

Framed by dramatic limestone cliffs and lush coastal vegetation, Strickland Bay boasts stunning natural beauty. These cliffs, formed over thousands of years, exhibit intricate textures and colours, showcasing the island's geological history and offering fantastic photo opportunities.

The natural surroundings of Strickland Bay also provide opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for various bird species and marine life, adding to your beach experience with chances to engage with the island’s diverse ecosystem.

7. Thomson Bay

Thomson Bay is often regarded as the heart of Rottnest Island, serving as a central hub for visitors and locals alike. Located on the eastern side of the island, this vibrant bay is not only known for its beautiful beach but also for its array of facilities, stunning scenery, and recreational activities.

Thomson Bay is an excellent launchpad for discovering other attractions on Rottnest Island. From here, visitors can easily access various walking trails that lead to other beautiful beaches, historical sites, and scenic viewpoints. The proximity to these attractions allows for a full day of exploration, making Thomson Bay a convenient base for your island adventures.

8. Little Armstrong Bay

Little Armstrong Bay is a secluded and picturesque beach located on the northern coast of Rottnest Island, often regarded as one of the island’s hidden gems. This tranquil bay is known for its calm waters, and laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for those looking to escape the busier tourist areas and enjoy a more intimate beach experience.

While Little Armstrong Bay is easily accessible by bike or a short walk from nearby accommodations, it still feels like a hidden oasis. The ride offers beautiful views of the island’s landscape and can take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on your starting point.

How to Choose the Best Beach on Rottnest Island

Choosing the best beach on Rottnest Island depends on how you want to spend your day. For calm swimming and snorkelling, sheltered bays with shallow waters are ideal, especially for families and less confident swimmers. If you’re chasing adventure, some beaches are better suited for surfing, paddleboarding, or exploring marine life.

Location and accessibility also play an important role. Beaches closer to the main settlement are easier to reach on foot and often have nearby facilities, while more remote beaches reward visitors with quieter surroundings and a more secluded feel. Cycling or catching the island bus makes it easy to explore multiple beaches in a single day.

Weather conditions, particularly wind direction, can greatly affect your beach experience. Some beaches remain calm when others are exposed, so checking the forecast before heading out can help you choose the perfect spot, whether you’re planning to swim, snorkel, or simply relax by the water.

Rottnest Island Weather

Before you embark on your beach-hopping adventure, it's essential to check the weather conditions to make the most of your day on Rottnest Island. Wind direction can significantly impact your beach experience, especially for activities like swimming and water sports. For helpful insights on the current weather and forecasts, visit the Rottnest Island Weather page. There, you can find the perfect beach to suit your plans based on the forecasted wind direction.

Whether you seek adventure through snorkelling and surfing or simply want to unwind on soft sands under the sun, the island's diverse shoreline has something for everyone. So, grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic and set out on an unforgettable beach-hopping adventure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Reach out to our reservations team today to book your trip and embark on a memorable adventure, exploring the hidden gems of Rottnest Island.