Just a short ferry ride from Perth lies one of Western Australia's most beloved escapes, Rottnest Island. Known for its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and of course, its famously friendly quokkas, Rottnest offers a slice of paradise that’s perfect for a quick getaway. Whether you're a local looking for a spontaneous day trip or a visitor tight on time, 24 hours is all you need to experience the best of this island gem. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the perfect one-day itinerary, highlighting scenic spots, local eats, and unforgettable moments to help you make the most of your time on Rotto.

Morning: Smooth Start to the Day

1. Catch an Early Ferry (7:30 AM–8:30 AM)

To make the most of your day on Rottnest, aim for an early ferry departure. Rottnest Fast Ferries offers convenient services from Hillarys Boat Harbour, with comfortable seating and onboard snacks to get your morning off to a smooth start. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. Arrive at the ferry terminal at least 30 minutes early, and if you're driving, take note of parking options nearby to avoid delays. Free parking is available all day at Hillarys Boat Harbour, but please allow enough time to find a parking spot, especially in peak season.

2. Arrive at Rottnest (around 9:30 AM)

Once you arrive on the island, head straight to the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre to grab a map and orient yourself. You’ll then want to pick how you’ll explore the island: rent a bike with Rottnest Fast Ferries prior to avoid waiting and maximise your time spent exploring the Island to get the classic Rotto experience. Otherwise, hop on the Island Explorer hop-on hop-off bus for a more relaxed ride. If you're in need of a caffeine boost, nearby cafés like The Lane or Simmo’s offer great coffee and a quick breakfast before you start your adventure.

Late Morning: Coastal Adventure & Wildlife

3. Explore the Bays (10:00 AM–12:00 PM)

Rottnest is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Western Australia. Spend your late morning exploring a few of the island’s stunning bays, The Basin and Pinky Beach are easily accessible and perfect for a quick swim or snorkel. If you're cycling, take a scenic loop along the coast and stop at Geordie Bay or Parakeet Bay for photo ops. Those taking the bus can hop off at key stops to admire the views, dip their toes in the water, or simply relax on the sand.

4. Quokka Encounter (Anytime mid-morning)

Of course, no trip to Rottnest is complete without a selfie with a quokka. These friendly marsupials can usually be spotted near the main settlement, often napping under shady trees or wandering close to cafés. While they’re used to humans, it’s important to respect their space—no feeding or touching, but feel free to crouch down for that iconic quokka grin!

Lunch: Refuel with a View (12:30 PM–1:30 PM)

After a morning of cycling or exploring, it’s time to refuel. Rottnest offers a great variety of lunch options. For waterfront views and classic Aussie dishes, try Thomson’s Rottnest or Hotel Rottnest. If you’re in the mood for Italian, Isola Bar e Cibo serves up delicious food right by the beach. For something quick and family-friendly, Frankie’s on Rotto is a go-to spot. You can also grab a takeaway sandwich or salad and enjoy a beachside picnic at one of the quieter coves.

Afternoon: History & Hidden Gems (2:00 PM–4:00 PM)

5. Visit Wadjemup Lighthouse or Oliver Hill

Spend part of your afternoon diving into Rottnest’s fascinating history. A visit to Wadjemup Lighthouse offers not only panoramic island views but also a glimpse into the island’s maritime past. If you’re interested in military history, head to Oliver Hill to explore the World War II gun battery and take a guided tour of the underground tunnels. These spots are accessible by bike or the Island Explorer bus, making it easy to fit into your itinerary.

6. Relax at a Quiet Beach

Before heading back, wind down at one of Rottnest’s quieter beaches. Little Parakeet Bay, Ricey Beach, and Little Salmon Bay are perfect for a peaceful afternoon swim or a quick nap in the sun. These beaches are less crowded and often feel like your own private slice of paradise, ideal for soaking up the last of the island magic before departure.

Evening: Sunset & Departure (4:30 PM–6:00 PM)

7. Sunset Drinks or Ice Cream

As the day winds down, treat yourself to a cold drink or a sweet treat before catching your ferry home. Hotel Rottnest is a great spot for a sunset drink with ocean views, while Simmo’s Ice Cream is a favourite for something cool and creamy. This is also a great time to take a few final photos and maybe catch one last glimpse of a quokka.

8. Return Ferry

Most day trippers catch the last return ferry which differs depending on the season. In Summer we offer later return ferries while in the off season the ferry departs Rottnest at 4:30pm. Make sure to arrive at the jetty with time to spare, as services can be busy—especially on weekends. As the ferry pulls away, you’ll get a final look at the island’s stunning coastline glowing in the afternoon light. It’s the perfect ending to a day well spent.

Rottnest might be small, but it’s bursting with adventure, beauty, and laid-back charm. With just one day, you can snorkel in crystal-clear water, snap a selfie with a quokka, explore historic landmarks, and catch an unforgettable sunset—all with time to spare. Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or as a family, this 24-hour itinerary will help you experience the very best of Rottnest Island in a single, unforgettable day.

And if you’d rather skip the planning and enjoy the island stress-free, we’ve got you covered. We offer guided Rottnest Island Day tours with ferry transfers, curated stops, and expert commentary, perfect for those who want to make the most of their time without the hassle of navigating or choosing between beaches. Let us take care of the details while you sit back and soak up the island magic.