Thomson Bay, Rottnest Island
The first beach you see as you step off the ferry. Thomson Bay is Rottnest Island's vibrant main settlement beach, calm, clear, family-friendly, and the perfect base for a full day of island exploration.
Rottnest Island's Welcome Bay
Thomson Bay is quite literally the first thing you see when you arrive on Rottnest Island. Step off the ferry jetty and you're already there, a sweeping stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water framed by the island's historic main settlement.
Sheltered on both sides by the arms of the bay, the water here is remarkably calm and clear, making it one of the safest and most accessible swimming spots on the island. It's the only beach on Rottnest with a roped-off swimming area, which makes it especially popular with young families and first-time visitors.
Beyond the beach, the Thomson Bay settlement is the island's main hub. You'll find cafes, restaurants, a bakery, the Visitor Centre, bike hire, and historic colonial buildings, all within a short stroll. Curious quokkas roam freely through the settlement, making it the easiest spot on the island to have an encounter with these famous marsupials.
Book Your Ferry to Rottnest
Activities at Thomson Bay
From swimming and snorkelling to cycling and quokka selfies, Thomson Bay has something for every visitor.
Swimming
Thomson Bay is the only beach on Rottnest with a roped-off swimming area, making it safe for young children and less confident swimmers. The calm, warm, shallow water is perfect for a refreshing dip right off the ferry.
Snorkelling
Smaller fish and sea life dart through the bay's clear water year-round. Schools of herring are common near the jetty, while further out you might spot stingrays or even a sea turtle. Hire snorkel gear on arrival or pre-book with your ferry ticket.
Cycling the Island
Thomson Bay is the natural starting point for a full island bike loop. Hire a bike from the settlement and head off to explore all 63 beaches and bays. The circuit is around 25km and can be completed in a few hours with stops along the way.
Quokka Spotting
Thomson Bay is the easiest place on the island to see quokkas up close. These famously friendly marsupials roam freely through the settlement. Let them come to you, never feed them, and keep a respectful distance when snapping your photo.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
The sheltered, glassy conditions of Thomson Bay make it ideal for stand-up paddleboarding. Glide across the smooth water and watch the activity of the beach and settlement from a unique perspective. Board hire is available in the settlement.
Historic Settlement Walk
The Thomson Bay settlement contains some of Western Australia's most significant colonial-era buildings, including the Salt Store and Lomas Cottage, commissioned in the mid-1800s. Free guided walks depart from the Visitor Centre regularly throughout the day.
Facilities at Thomson Bay
Thomson Bay is the most well-equipped beach on the island, making it ideal for a full day out.
Showers & Change Rooms
Public toilets, showers, and change rooms are available near the beach. Lockers are also available for storing valuables.
Cafes & Restaurants
Multiple dining options are steps from the beach, from the island bakery to sit-down restaurants. Grab a coffee, lunch, or an ice cream.
BBQ Facilities
Free public barbecues are available around the bay. Pick up supplies from the General Store and cook up a beachside feast.
Bike & Equipment Hire
Bike hire, snorkel gear, stand-up paddleboards, and surfboards are all available from hire outlets in the settlement.
Visitor Centre
The island's main Visitor Centre is located directly in front of the jetty. Get maps, book tours, and find out what's on during your visit.
Island Bus Stop
The Quokka Hopper island bus departs from Thomson Bay, making it easy to reach all beaches without a bike.
ATM & Wi-Fi
ATM facilities and Wi-Fi access are available in the main settlement area near the bay.
Accessible Facilities
Accessible toilets are available at the Visitor Centre and at Bedford Avenue. Beach access is available across the sand at North Thomson Bay.
Getting to Thomson Bay
Thomson Bay is the ferry arrival point for Rottnest Island, you can't miss it. Here's how to plan your trip from Perth.
Book Your Ferry from Hillarys
Rottnest Fast Ferries departs daily from Hillarys Boat Harbour, 7 days a week. The crossing takes approximately 45 minutes. View timetable â
Free Parking at Hillarys
Park for free at Hillarys Boat Harbour for the duration of your trip. Simply show your ferry ticket on arrival. Parking details â
Step Off the Jetty, You're There
Thomson Bay is right at the ferry terminal. No transport needed, the beach, settlement, and all facilities are within a 2-minute walk of the jetty.
Beaches Near Thomson Bay
Thomson Bay is the perfect base. These popular beaches are all accessible by bike or bus.
The Basin
Rottnest's most popular snorkelling beach. A 15-minute walk north of Thomson Bay, with a natural lagoon and calm crystal-clear water perfect for families.
View Beach Guide â
Pinky Beach
One of the island's most photographed beaches, located beside the iconic Bathurst Lighthouse. A short cycle from Thomson Bay with the added bonus of Pinky's Beach Club.
View Beach Guide â
Geordie Bay
A sheltered, family-friendly bay on the northeastern side of the island, with calm shallow water, accommodation, and nearby shops and cafes.
View Beach Guide âThomson Bay FAQ
Is Thomson Bay good for swimming?
Yes, Thomson Bay is one of the best swimming beaches on Rottnest Island, particularly for families and young children. It's the only beach on the island with a roped-off swimming area, and the sheltered bay keeps the water calm and shallow. Schools of herring and small marine life are commonly spotted, and stingrays or sea turtles are occasional visitors further out.
How far is Thomson Bay from the ferry?
Thomson Bay is where the ferry arrives, the beach is literally a 2-minute walk from the jetty. You step off the ferry and you're already there. It's the most accessible beach on the island, requiring no transport or cycling.
Where can I hire a bike at Thomson Bay?
Bike hire is available from multiple outlets in the Thomson Bay settlement, including Pedal and Flipper. You can also pre-book bike hire with your ferry ticket through Rottnest Fast Ferries to guarantee availability on arrival.
Can I see quokkas at Thomson Bay?
Thomson Bay is the single best place on the island to see quokkas. These friendly marsupials roam freely through the settlement throughout the day. Let them approach you naturally, never feed them, and avoid touching them. A quokka selfie is one of Rottnest Island's most iconic experiences.
What cafes and restaurants are at Thomson Bay?
Thomson Bay has the island's largest selection of food and drink, including cafes, restaurants, a bakery, and the island's General Store for supplies. Options range from casual snacks to sit-down meals, and there are also free public BBQ facilities around the bay if you prefer to self-cater.
How do I get to Rottnest Island from Perth?
Rottnest Fast Ferries departs daily from Hillarys Boat Harbour, just 20 minutes north of Perth CBD. The crossing takes approximately 45 minutes and runs 7 days a week. Free parking is available at Hillarys for all ferry passengers. Book your ferry here.