Snapshot

Western Australia's most treasured island retreat, Rottnest Island is the place where Perth comes to unwind and enjoy some time out reconnecting with nature, family and friends. Its breathtaking natural beauty and biodiversity has earned the island Class A status, putting it higher up the protection list than any national park, not to mention the 'must-see' list for visitors to the city.

Over 95 species of tropical fish, 20 coral varieties, 140 indigenous species of flora and an incredible array of native and migratory birds have found a haven on Rottnest, including the island's famous pint-sized kangaroo - the quokka.

Rottnest Island is a world away from city life, but lies just 19 kilometres (a short ferry cruise) from the port town of Fremantle to the south of Perth.

Stretching 11 kilometres from end-to-end, visitors can experience many of the island's 63 beaches, 20 bays, 10 cafes, bars and restaurants in one day and still have time for a spot of swimming, snorkelling or diving, fishing or surfing, historic tours or nature tours, walking or cycling tracks, golf or tennis.

Originally part of mainland Australia, Rottnest only became an island some 7,000 years ago, when global sea levels rose significantly. It was discovered by Dutch Explorer Willem de Vlamingh in 1696, who mistook the native quokka for a rat and named it 'Rott Enest' meaning 'rats nest'.

Over the three centuries that followed, the island's colourful maritime, colonial, military and recreational history has given Rottnest an incredibly rich heritage. Visitors can take tours to hear tales of treacherous seas, life in prison chains and the role Rottnest's great guns played in WWII.