Escape To Winter On Rottnest

Lanterns hanging from a string of lights at Samphire Rottnest

Rottnest Island in Winter

When the crowds clear and there’s a stillness in the air, a whole new side to Rottnest Island appears.

The wildlife comes out to play, kaleidoscopic sunrises appear, and Samphire Rottnest readies itself for winter travellers seeking an escape.

From awe-inspiring animal encounters to rejuvenating spa days and indulgent dining experiences, discover why we hold winter so close to our hearts.

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Rottnest Island has an average high temperature of 19°C throughout the winter months.
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Take a stroll up to Wadjemup Lighthouse and take in the view.
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Keep your eyes open for new born quokkas peaking out from their mother’s pouch.
A cosy bed with a blanket draped off the side of it
About Our hotel

Book your winter getaway to Rottnest Island

Do winter differently this year with a stay at Samphire Rottnest.

Inside the hotel, you’ll find everything you need for a cosy retreat – spacious rooms with private balconies; exclusive access to our Samphire Club for fireside chats; and our heated swimming pool for sunnier days.

Outdoors, the island is yours to explore anew, with crystal-clear beaches and key tourist services in easy reach.

Find out what other little extras you can enjoy when you book at Samphire Rottnest.

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Start your day the right way

Lontara at Samphire Rottnest
Enjoy breakfast at Lontara while overlooking Thomson Bay.

Treat yourself

In-room massage
Relax your mind and body with a spa treatment at Samphire Rottnest, available from the warmth and comfort of your own hotel room.

Warm up for the day ahead

Hotel fitness classes
Start your morning with a yoga class or fitness session at the hotel.

Recount the day’s events by the fire pit

Beachfront fire pits
Settle in by one of our beachfront fire pits with a specialty cocktail, while enjoying good company and stunning views.
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Samphire Rottnest

Our Accommodation & Wellness Packages

Start planning your winter holidays at Samphire Rottnest, with a range of packages and specials to make your time away sweeter.

A photo of the Samphire poolside

Midweek Island Escape Package

Escape the routine and seize the break you’ve been longing for. Whether you enjoy adventure, relaxation, or a perfect blend of both, your midweek island retreat awaits, just a ferry ride away.
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A woman sits and does yoga

Winter Solstice Wellness Retreat

Welcome the winter solstice and soak in the beauty and tranquillity of Rottnest Island over four incredible days of wellness, illuminated by the arrival of the full moon. This all-inclusive retreat has been carefully curated to help you rekindle your inner fire and usher in a new year of light.
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A woman stands on the shore of rottnest island and looks out to the horizon

Winter Explorer Package

Spend your days exploring and soaking in all Rottnest has to offer, from beautiful beaches and breath taking panoramas to unique wildlife experiences.
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A couple sit on the hotel bed in bath robes whilst drinking champagne

Couples Winter Warmer Getaway

This package is all about the simple pleasures, from a relaxing couples massage to slipping on a robe and slippers as you unwind in your suite with a bottle of wine and gourmet cheese board.
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A bed with a wooden tray of bread, croissants, cup of coffee, and magazine

Samphire Bed and Breakfast Package

Wake up to a continental breakfast at Lontara and start your day the right way. A package to give you absolute freedom for your next island adventure.
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Time To Unwind

Cosy up and relax indoors

Gather round the fireplace with friends in the Samphire Club, our private guest lounge where you can relax with a hot buttered rum.

We offer a range of daily guest experiences. Ask our reception for what’s happening each day.

  • Samphire Club

What People Say

“Had a great winter break at Samphire in one of the beachside suites. Accommodation and service was fantastic.”
Tripadvisor Review
“Really enjoyed my stay at the Samphire Rottnest. Great beach front room. Friendly and helpful staff.”
Tripadvisor Review
A boat docked on its own at a beach on Rottnest
Exploring The Island

Things to do on Rottnest Island in winter

Think summer is the best time to visit Rottnest Island? Surprise yourself with these seasonal attractions and activities that are best experienced during the winter.

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    Go whale watching

    Cape Vlamingh Viewing Platform
    Each winter, pods of humpback whales begin their annual migration to the south. These beautiful creatures can be sighted from the western end of the island as they pass by Rottnest from August – November.

    Cruise coast to coast

    Marjorie Bay
    Hop on a segway, bus tour, or bike to discover more of Rottnest’s hidden beaches and pristine nature trails. With the winter breeze on your back, the weather’s on your side to explore more of the island.
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    Snapper, salmon, and squid season starts

    Thomson Bay
    Winter is a bountiful season for fishing on Rottnest Island, and there are many calm spots around the island for you to cast in a line.

    Catch a wave

    Strickland Bay
    Rottnest Island surfing conditions are at their best in winter, with larger swells, warmer waters, and less crowds than on the mainland.
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    The front of Samphire Rottnest, Hotel Rottnest beside it
    Swan River sea plane flying over Rottnest Island
    Guest enjoys reading a magazine in the pool whilst eating peaches.
    Prawns cooking on grill
    Restaurants On Rottnest

    Dine out in style

    Just metres from your room are some of Rottnest Island’s premier restaurants and bars, offering unique dining experiences and cocktails by the bay.

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    Hotel Rottnest

    Stop by for a hearty meal and drink at Hotel Rottnest, the perfect spot for a breather and long lunch with friends. Settle in by the fire with your tipple of choice.
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    Isola Bar e Cibo

    Enjoy authentic Italian food and wine with a view. Seafood is the specialty at this beachside Italian restaurant, served alongside handmade pasta and melt-in-your-mouth meat dishes. Pair your meal with a drop of vino from the bar’s extensive wine list.
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    Lontara

    Get a taste of South-East Asian cuisine, with a twist. Sticky tamarind pork, char-grilled coconut chicken, and juicy dumplings are just some of the culinary delights served at Lontara. Savour small bites or feast on generous share platters.
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    FAQs

    Helpful information for guests

    How do I get from the ferry to Samphire Rottnest?

    The accommodation is a short and scenic 200m walk along the Thomson’s Bay from the ferry jetty to the reception building.

    As the island is predominantly vehicle-free, we only provide transfers on request and most guests enjoy exploring the island as they make their way to their accommodation on foot.

    If you have luggage (non-carry on) you can check it in with your ferry provider and it will be sent to Samphire Rottnest by the Island’s delivery service. This can take up to 2-3 hours once you’ve arrived – we recommend packing a day bag with bathers and anything else you might want to use straight away.

    If you do have mobility constraints and require a transfer from the ferry to your accommodation, please let us know so that we can put arrangements in place.

    If you are planning to take a seaplane to Rottnest Island, we provide complimentary airport pick-up & drop off service to Rottnest Island Airport. Please contact our friendly reception team to arrange an airport transfer.

    When is check-in?

    You’re welcome to check in any time from 3pm onwards. Want to check-in earlier? We’ll do our best to organise this for you, however we cannot guarantee early check-in. Feel free to leave your bags at the reception desk so you can go and explore Rottnest Island.

    The name of the booking (or nominee) must be the same person checking in.

    When is check-out?

    After a quiet night’s rest, you will need to depart your room by 11am on your check-out date. Sleeping in? You’re welcome to request a late check out (subject to availability). A friendly reminder to communicate all ferry times and baggage requests with our reception staff.

    Do the rooms receive a housekeeping service?

    All rooms receive housekeeping services prior to the commencement of your stay and every day that you stay with us, should you want it. Irons and ironing boards are available in all rooms. Laundry is not provided on-site. Paid self-service laundry is available on the island, this is located behind Pedal & Flipper (~100m walk).

    If guests do not have small change to operate the paid laundry, they will be able to exchange Australian bills at reception.