Blue Skies and Bike Rides

ROTTNEST ISLAND IS NOT ONLY FAMOUS FOR ITS CUTE AND FRIENDLY QUOKKAS, IT ALSO BOASTS SOME OF THE BEST BEACHES IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA. COMBINING INSTA-WORTHY SCENERY WITH AN EXCELLENT NETWORK OF CYCLE PATHS, ROTTO IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO DISCOVER BY BIKE.

WORDS: Kirsty Gunn

1. THE BASIN
Great for families and only a short bike ride from the main settlement and nearby glamping accommodation, The Basin is one of the most popular swimming and snorkelling spots on the Island. The shallow reefs, clear water and gentle swell make it the perfect location for beginner snorkellers. Offering plenty of shade, access to toilets and a large picnic area, it’s the ideal location for families with young children and those wanting to spend a day relaxing or snorkelling.

DISTANCE FROM SETTLEMENT: APPROX. 1KM

2. LITTLE SALMON BAY
Surrounded by rocky outcrops on either side that provide protection from the wind, this picturesque little cove offers calm clear waters, a pristine sandy beach, and access to an underwater snorkel trail. The trailhead starts on the beach and provides both beginner and more advanced snorkellers with information about the different types of fish that can be found on the Island.

DISTANCE FROM SETTLEMENT: APPROX. 4.5KM

3. SALMON BAY
Salmon Bay is the longest beach on Rottnest Island and one of the most photographed. The staircase down to the white sandy beach below is the perfect spot to snap a pic – but look to your right, and the views down the beach and across to Wadjemup Lighthouse are equally stunning. With plenty of space to relax and enjoy the postcard-worthy views, this is a popular stop for bike riders around the Island. Bring a picnic, find your own secluded stretch of sand, and settle in for the afternoon.

DISTANCE FROM SETTLEMENT: APPROX. 5KM

4. PINKY’S BEACH
Well known as the best place to enjoy the sunset on Rottnest Island, Pinky’s Beach has it all: picture-perfect views of Bathurst Lighthouse, clear waters, a pristine sandy beach – all just a short bike ride from the main settlement area. Located just behind the dunes is Pinky’s Beach Club, where visitors can sit back and enjoy an iconic Rotto sunset with a cocktail in hand and a bite to eat.

DISTANCE FROM SETTLEMENT: APPROX. 1KM

5. LITTLE ARMSTRONG BAY
Located on the north side of Rottnest Island, Little Armstrong Bay has one of the most picturesque rocky coves of all the beaches and bays on the Island. Protected from the southerly and easterly winds, it is most sheltered in the afternoons, making it the perfect stop for families with young children looking to swim in the calm, clear waters. A little patch of paradise, minus the crowds.

DISTANCE FROM SETTLEMENT: APPROX. 5KM

Explore the blue skies by bike on Rottnest Island with Rottnest Express.