A Comprehensive Guide to Getting Around Rottnest

As the sun begins to shine brighter and the weather becomes warmer, Rottnest Island will be your number one holiday destination. The island is filled with beautiful beaches, bays and historical attractions stretched over the 11km long island. It’s best to plan out your mode of transportation prior to visiting the island, whether it’s cycling, walking or the bus. Below is a comprehensive guide of how to get around the island.

Break a sweat!

If you are wanting the real “Rotto local” experience, then cycling is the way to go! Hire a bike from our custom-built fleet or bring your own across and adventure from bay to bay all day long. Dry off under the hot sun as you cycle to your next location. Map out your cycle path for the day using one of our cycle path maps (available at the reservation office), choose between 3 cycle paths ranging in difficulty levels. While the ride isn’t exactly flat, cycling does allow you to visit smaller beaches and bays that aren’t easily accessible. Don’t forget to slip, slop, slap and always carry water with you!

Keep cool!

Want to see the sights without getting too hot and bothered? Travel in comfort on board our Island Explorer bus. There are 19 different stops around the island, stopping at beaches, bays, settlements and attractions. Laze in air-conditioned comfort as you get driven from stop to stop. It is recommended to retrieve a bus timetable at the main bus stop to get the correct time intervals between stops and learn when the final bus does its rounds.

Wander round!

Rottnest Island is filled with magical beaches and attractions, meaning you don’t have to venture too far to find them! If you decide to head over to the island without a means of transport, walking is your best bet. Within the main settlement you can explore the local stores, cafes, restaurants and the famous bakery. The Basin is located 1km north of Thompson Bay, here you will find one of the island’s most beautiful and kid-friendly snorkelling destinations, as well as the Bathurst Lighthouse offering an amazing view over the bay. A further 1km west is the island’s 2nd biggest settlement of Geordie Bay, offering another general store, café and more beaches to explore.

Regardless of the way you decide to get around the island, it is guaranteed to be a day to remember! Your visit to Rottnest Island is sure to be a treat and will stay with you for years to come. Book your experience with Rottnest Fast Ferries online today, because our way, is your way, is Rotto My Way.

Jared Gunthorpe