We flew from the other side of the world to meet them – the quokkas, also known as the happiest animals on Earth. Was it worth it? Definitely! – Our adventurous inner voice shouts without a doubt! If you ever wanted to meet them too, we have put together an informative article to help you out – including how to make that quokka selfie! Keep on reading to find out all about Australia Rottnest Island – the home of smiley quokkas.
What are quokkas?
Quokkas are animals native to the Australian continent. They are marsupials which means that they have an abdominal pouch to carry their young ones, just like kangaroos or wallabies. Quokkas are found on some smaller islands off the coast of Western Australia, mainly on Rottnest Island, just off Perth, and also Bald Island near Albany. They have become quite popular recently due to their appearance and friendly nature. That is why Rottnest Island – the main home of the quokkas attracts hundreds of tourists every day.
How to get to Rottnest Island?
Getting to Rottnest Island is quite simple. Provided that the island is located close to Perth, 18 km west of Fremantle, you would need to book a ferry ride. Rottnest ferries take approximately 25 minutes from Fremantle, 45 minutes from Hillarys Boat Harbour, or 90 minutes from Perth’s Barrack Street Jetty.
Transfers to Rottnest Island can be booked through one of the three ferry operators:
Rottnest Express – Departs from Fremantle and Perth City
Rottnest Fast Ferries – Departs from Hillary’s Ferry Terminal
SeaLink Rottnest Island – Departs from Perth City and B Shed Fremantle
We chose to make our booking with Rottnest Express. They have few departures daily and the morning ones are quite busy, so make sure to book in advance. The price was 140 AUD per person for a departure from Perth City including a pickup from the centre and a bike and helmet rental. The price from Fremantle is lower – 70 AUD, plus 35 AUD if you want to rent a bike. We strongly recommend to rent a bike together with the ferry ride so you don’t need to think about it later. And trust us – you will need one if you want to properly explore the island.
How to move around the island?
Rottnest island covers 19 square kilometres, which is quite a big area to explore on foot. Even though we saw a few people that had chosen to walk, we do not recommend walking as the distances between places are quite big. That is why we definitely suggest to move around the island by bike if you want to make the most out of your trip.
However, in case you decide not to rent a bike, you can take advantage of the Hop On Hop Off Island Explorer bus which goes every 15 min starting from 8:30 to 16:30 from the Main Bus stop with many stops on the way. Tickets are available online, at the Visitor Centre or at the main bus stop kiosk. The prices are 20 AUD for adult day pass and 15 AUD for children. Family tickets are also available at reduced prices. Also different tours and activities can be booked at the Visitor Centre.
Below is a map with suggested bike routes.
Source: www.rottnestexpress.com.au
Where to find quokkas?
It is highly possible that you will see a quokka at the Settlement as soon as you get off the ferry. But if you don’t, you will surely meet them while riding around the island. The following places have been lucky for us:
- The Settlement, mostly around the restaurants area
- Around the pink lake, look at the sides of the road close to shrubs
- Under the trees on Wadjemup Rd on the way to the lighthouse and around it
- Around Kingstown Barracks
Respect the wildlife!
Quokkas are very friendly and curious animals. They are used to people and don’t seem to be afraid from tourists. However, they are wild animals and should not be disturbed. With 7,500 – 15,000 quokkas left, they fall into the category of vulnerable species. It is everyone’s responsibility to contribute towards protecting them by respecting few simple rules during the visit.
- Do not feed the quokkas. Even what seems as completely safe food like nuts might not be good for a quokka. Their digestive system can be sensitive to food they are not used to. Also feeding the animals makes them dependent on people which might have negative influence on their ability to search for their own food.
- Do not touch or pick up the animals, replace or disturb them in any other way.
- Do not use flash when taking pictures of them. Flash can hurt their eyes.
How to take that quokka selfie?
We know how much you want that quokka selfie, but be patient and respect the animals. It is everyone’s responsibility to protect our natural wonders for future generations to enjoy. Rottnestisland.com has put together an informative guide on how to take a selfie with a quokka.
Is there anything else to do?
Main reason why people visit Rottnest Island are, of course quokkas. But apart from smiley quokkas, this island has few more incredible things to offer. Make sure to make the most out of it!
Beautiful views on the ocean
Enjoy breathtaking views as you cycle around the island
Wadjemup lighthouse
Reach the lighthouse to take pictures, admire the view from its yard or take a tour around the lighthouse
Crystal clear water and sandy beaches
Take a break by relaxing on one of the white sand beaches or take a dip in the chilly ocean for refreshment or snorkelling.
A pink lake
Yes! There is actually a pink coloured lake on the island, an interesting place you might want to see.
Salmon Bay
One of the most popular bays on Rottnest Island – a calm spot perfect for families but also a great spot for snorkelling.
Nesting birds colony
Rottnest Island has been identified as an Important Bird Area (IBA) due to its significant breeding population of Fairy Terns.
No traffic
A pretty amazing thing these days, isn’t it? Apart from the buses operating around the island, you won’t meet any other motor vehicles.
Cafes, quick bites, restaurants and bars
Hungry after a full day of adventure? There are options to eat at Rottnest Island, most of them located near the Settlement, so we recommend to bring your own snacks as a cheaper option.
Shopping
If you get into the shopping mood you can find souvenirs and clothes at the Settlement.
Tours and Activities
There are many tours and activities available for booking at the Visitor Centre.
We hope that you found this article useful. Enjoy your trip and feel free to share your experience with us!
With Love,
Jelena and Luke
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