Location: 18km off Western Australian coast, WA
Western Australia is a massive state that's home to some of the country's most beautiful spots, but there are few that can compare with the raw blend of striking colours, impressive lookout points and hidden golden coves of the amazing Rottnest Island.
With pristine sands and vibrant waters reminiscent of the Whitsundays, combined with truly unique wildlife on both land and sea all within easy reach of Perth.
Residents of WA's capital are truly spoiled having such an idyllic spot just a short distance from their city – it sits just 19km off the coast of WA.
The island offers a cavalcade of things to see and do, and the mere act of exploration of its approximately 11km-long expanse by boat, bike or foot is an adventure unto itself.
Known as 'Rotto' by locals, the lure of Rottnest Island all starts with the quality of the surrounding water. It's not only pretty to look at but generally both calm and quite warm in all but the coldest months of the year due to warm water currents, which in turn leads to ideal conditions for marine life and coral to make the island their home.
This results in some great off-shore snorkelling opportunities with more than 135 species of tropical fish as well as the likes of Green Turtles found within mere metres of the shore.
"This results in some great off-shore snorkelling opportunities with more than 135 species of tropical fish as well as the likes of Green Turtles found within mere metres of the shore."
Meanwhile on the island's more rough and rocky side, Fur Seals can be seen lazing in the sunshine and dipping in and out of the water while Humpback Whales can also be spotted during their annual migratory season from September and November.
It's a wonderful display of marine life that extends onto the shore as well, with what is probably Rottnest Island's signature calling card, the Quokka. A small, furry and photogenic marsupial, the quokka is extremely rare and has managed to survive over the years due to a lack of major predators on the island.
Outside of wildlife, the island boasts an array of other activities and ways to pass the time. Cycling on Rottnest Island makes for a popular and reasonably priced way for getting around (bikes are available for hire on the island).
Those looking for some quality walking tracks will be spoiled as the island's extensive 50km Wadjemup Walk Trail walking track spans a wonderful, scenic path through some of the island's key points including natural and historical attractions.
Boardwalks on the west end of the island, a track overlooking Henrietta Rocks and its shipwreck, and panoramic views from Vlamingh Lookout are all-must do's for visitors who don't mind investing energy in a walk, and all have significant payoffs.
Other, family-oriented facilities such as a fun park, mini-golf and aqua park combine with the wildlife to make Rottnest Island a day out that's great for families as well, so you'll never be short of things to see on your visit.
Getting to Rottnest Island is doable with two quality companies in both Rottnest Express (departing Fremantle and Perth) and Rottnest Fast Ferries (from Hillary's Boat Harbour).
Both operators offer standalone transfers to the island as well as bundled tour packages which include the likes of bike hire, on-island accommodation, snorkel gear, guided bus tours or wildlife cruises, meaning you'll be able to make your trip to Rottnest as comprehensive – or budget-conscious – as you wish.
The trip takes approximately 1.5 hours when departing from Perth (the ferry has to cruise slowly down the Swan River before heading into open water) and 25 minutes from Fremantle (available only with Rottnest Express).
One of Australia's most scenic and thoroughly enjoyable spots that are not ridiculously expensive to enjoy, Rottnest Island is an absolute must on any Perth travel itinerary.
