Discover Rottnest Islands magical hideaway
On the southeast corner of Rottnest Island, you will find Henrietta Rocks. This is a quiet cove and one of the more private beaches on the island.
With its clear water and calm conditions, it’s a relaxing place. Both rugged and beautiful, it hides a secret under the waves.
Here’s why Henrietta Rocks is a must-visit spot and why it might just become your new favourite Rottnest destination.
Exploring the natural beauty of Henrietta Rocks
Henrietta Rocks is a striking place. Grassy cliffs and rocky outcrops slope gently down to white sand. A set of steps takes you down to the shore. There, you will find a small, cozy beach. It is the perfect spot to escape the busy main settlement.
A scenic lookout provides a panoramic view, with Paterson Beach arcing away to the left and the expanse of Porpoise Bay on your right. Sitting right before you, the turquoise water gives way to a rich deep blue.
Seagrass-covered limestone rocks provide a habitat for sea life. Further under the waves, you’ll find a beautiful coral reef home to many fish and other sea life.
If you’re lucky, you might even encounter a sea turtle or have the chance to see dolphins playing further out in the water.
Activities to enjoy at Henrietta Rocks
Discover the wreck of the Shark
The tranquil ocean makes for a calm underwater experience, ideal for snorkellers and divers of all levels. But it’s what’s offshore that makes it one of Rottnest Island’s iconic snorkelling experiences.
Just 50 metres from the beach, you’ll find the wreck of the old barge, the Shark, underneath the water. The Shark was an old hopper barge that ran aground on the rocks in 1938.
A tugboat towed it to Cape Vlaming, but rough seas caused it to break free from the towline during the trip. The barge drifted across the waves to make Henrietta Rocks its final resting place.
Now, encrusted in barnacles and covered with seaweed, it’s an intriguing place to dive under the water and explore.
Poking above the waves, you can see it from the beach. Interpretive panels at the lookout above the beach let you learn more about the Henrietta Rocks shipwreck.
Walk the Ngank Yira Bidi
Back on land, the Ngank Yira Bidi walking trail passes by Henrietta Rocks.
This 10km trail lets hikers explore the southeast corner of the island. Threading from Thomson Bay to Porpoise Bay blends rugged nature with man-made elements.
On your journey, you will visit two naval gun batteries and have the chance to learn how Rottnest Island helped defend Australia during World War II.
Practical tips when visiting Henrietta Rocks
Henrietta Rocks is a beautiful place to relax and unwind, so you must come prepared.
Like most of Rottnest’s beaches, you must bring all your food, drinks, towels, and snorkelling equipment. If you don’t have any snorkelling gear but want to discover the shipwreck, you can hire beach supplies.
The nearest facilities are either at Parker Point or the Army Jetty, so keep that in mind when planning your time there.
Getting to Henrietta Rocks is super convenient. The Quokka Coaches Island Explorer travels around the island. You can board at the main settlement and get off at Stop 3.
Alternatively, it’s only a 30-minute walk, or an eight-minute bike ride, from the town centre.
Discover Henrietta Rocks for yourself
Henrietta Rocks is a must-visit Rottnest Island destination with its calm, clear waters, serene atmosphere, and unique snorkelling opportunities.
To make the most of your time on the island—and remain close to this gorgeous beach—book your stay at Samphire Rottnest.
