Little Armstrong Bay sits on the north-western coast of Rottnest Island. Embraced on both sides by rocky outcrops, it’s somewhat of a smaller beach. Tucked away from the crowds enjoying the main beaches, it’s a stunning place that often feels like you have everything to yourself.
How to get to Little Armstrong Bay
Despite its secluded location, Little Armstrong Bay is still easy to get to, making it the perfect spot to plan your day.
Situated 4.5km from Thomson Bay, it’s a one-hour walk for those who like to explore and stretch their legs.
The journey takes you around the top end of the island, past the busier swimming spots. It’s just a 25-minute walk along the coast from Geordie Bay, a 33-minute walk from Longreach Bay, or 43 minutes from The Basin.
Alternatively, a quick 15-minute bike ride gets you there in no time, or you can take the Rottnest Island Explorer bus. Just get on at the main settlement stop and hop off at Stop 17.
What to do when you get there
Little Armstrong Bay is flanked by rocky outcrops on both sides, which shelter it from waves and winds. This creates calmer turquoise waters, perfect for relaxing and splashing around.
A gently sloping seabed drops deeper as you get out, creating stunning blue water.
And with its soft white sand, it’s ideal for those seeking a more relaxing place to swim and unwind.
Snorkelling and diving
Safe from interfering currents, the conditions at Little Armstrong Bay are excellent for snorkellers and divers of all abilities.
Located in one of Rottnest Island’s Marine Sanctuary Zones, it’s a safe space for an array of colourful marine life, which live there in abundance.
Underneath the waves, you’ll find the sand dotted with waving seagrass, and the low coral reef creates little caves for fish to play in, including fishermen’s favourites: King George Whiting, herring, cod, bream and salmon!
Whale watching
Between August and December, it’s estimated that over 35,000 whales pass the island. Further, out to sea, keen-eyed visitors may be lucky to see the telltale splash and spray of whales frolicking in the ocean. The lookout above the bay makes for a great place to spot them.
Hiking the Karlinyah Bidi
Back on land, the Karlinyah Bidi walking trail snakes around the coast. This 5.7km trail goes through the salt lakes across the island’s interior before returning to the coast.
It takes you right past Little Armstrong Bay and is a beautiful stop along a rugged hike to take a breather and refresh.
What else is nearby
Little Armstrong Bay feels like your gateway to the island’s northwest coast. It’s close to the popular Geordie Bay, the boating hotspot Parakeet Bay, and Little Parakeet Bay, another tiny inlet that’s a favourite for families. The vast, open landscape of Catherine Bay Beach stretches out to the west.
Tips for visiting Little Armstrong Bay
Little Armstrong Bay is considered one of the more relaxing bays on the island—and for good reason.
With smaller crowds and sheltered from windy conditions, it’s a beautiful place to bring your towels and picnic blanket and set up for the morning, the afternoon or the whole day.
However, there are no cafes or restaurants nearby, so be sure to bring all the food and snacks you’ll want throughout the day and plenty of fresh water.
While relaxing, the beach is entirely open to the sun. So be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and other sun protection.
Nearby, Geordie Bay provides the closest toilet and shower facilities. It’s a 25-minute walk east around the coast or a quick six-minute bike ride.
As always, the best times to visit Little Armstrong Bay depend on what you want to get out of your visit. Early morning makes for calmer, cooler waters and fewer swimmers, feeling like you have the beach all to yourself.
Later in the afternoon, you can gaze out over the ocean to the west and watch the spectacular sunsets that Western Australia is known for.
Experience Little Armstrong Bay at a slower pace
Little Armstrong Bay on Rottnest Island is a favourite for those looking for a small, secluded spot to enjoy relaxed swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing.
It’s a gorgeous beach that feels like you’re getting away from the busier areas on the island.
To ensure you have a genuinely serene experience while you’re here, book your stay at Samphire Rottnest.
