Rottnest Island is surrounded by the stunning blue Indian Ocean. Fringed with 63 gorgeous clear, white sand beaches, and 20 beautiful bays, it’s an island paradise.
And it’s the pull of these beaches, and the water, that draws people to the island.
It’s been proven that spending time near the water has a range of health benefits, including reducing stress levels and improving your mood. It’s no surprise that years ago, doctors used to prescribe seaside visits to help nurse their patients back to health.
So when we say that there’s something special about being near water, we mean it. Whether you’re into lazy tropical holidays, or the salty spray of the southern beaches; whether you love the soothing sound of waves lapping at the shore, or the gentle ocean breeze laced with the salty smell of the sea, Rottnest Island is a tranquil environment, perfect for unwinding, refreshing, and rejuvenating.
Here’s why being close to the water is essential for your next Rottnest Island holiday.
There’s a reason Rottnest Island feels like a world away
Rottnest Island feels like a world away, and there’s a good reason for that. Thanks to the Leeuwin Current which flows down from Indonesia, the water around the island is typically around four degrees warmer than that of Perth, making for beautiful swimming conditions, all year round.
It’s teeming with over 130 species of fish, and sea turtles, seals, dolphins, and curious ocean birds all come close to shore, meaning there’s plenty for adventurous swimmers to explore.
Relax on some of WA’s best beaches
A trip to Rottnest Island isn’t complete without enjoying the water that surrounds the island.
Start by swimming in the warm waters at your favourite beach: in fact, from Samphire Rottnest, you can hop just over the footpath and into the inviting clear waters of Thomson Bay, whether for an early morning dip, or cooling off in the afternoon.
Fantastic snorkelling to be found
Rottnest Island is surrounded by coral reefs, which curious and colourful fish have made their home. So it’s ideal for getting under the waves and exploring the undersea environment.
There are plenty of exceptional snorkelling spots, but two of our favourites are:
- Henrietta Rocks. Just 50m offshore at Henrietta Rocks, you can find the wreck of the Shark, a boat that broke free from its moorings in 1938, drifted across the channel, and sank to its final resting place off Rottnest. It’s still reasonably intact, creating an exciting and eerie experience, brightened up by curious fish and colourful sealife.
- Parker Point. With sparkling blue water and bright white sand, Parker Point is an incredibly scenic snorkelling spot. Underneath the water you’ll find striking pink coral, and further out, a snorkelling trail of 12 trail markers, which feature information about the sea life that surrounds you.
Enjoy just being above the water
If you prefer to stay above the water, there are plenty of calmer bays where you can try your hand at stand up paddleboarding.
Or, if you’d prefer to simply be near the water, rather than in it, our staff at Samphire Rottnest can help you book a range of different cruise experiences. From fishing charters to romantic sunset cruises, they’re the perfect way for those that prefer to stay dryer to enjoy the water that surrounds the island.
Stay in our beachside accommodation at Samphire Rottnest
We might be biased, but the best Rottnest Island accommodation options are right next to the water. And it doesn’t get much closer than Samphire Rottnest.
Our Beachfront Rooms and Signature Beachfront suites are designed to connect you with the water. Featuring materials and a relaxed colour palette inspired by the island’s rugged coastline and native landscape, our beachfront accommodation is just a few short steps to the sand.
Enjoy a private furnished balcony or terrace where you can start your morning with a coffee and look out over the waves, or finish the day with a glass of wine and watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean.
As well as the beach, our Poolside rooms look out over our sparkling blue pool, connecting you to water of another kind. With reflections dancing off the glittering blue water, they’re a tranquil retreat that embraces the tropical resort vibes.
Take advantage of the cooler months
Winter is a beautiful time on Rottnest Island.
It’s ideal for surfing, when conditions off the island are at their best. Head to Strickland Bay for warmer waters, larger swell, and fewer crowds than you’ll find on the mainland.
It’s also one of the best times for fishing, with plenty of calm spots all around the island to cast out. Salmon and snapper frequent the island, and squid season starts, which if you’re lucky, you can catch right off the jetty at Thomson Bay.
You may even be lucky to catch a glimpse of humpback whales frolicking further out to sea. This typically happens towards the end of winter, and these beautiful giants migrate through the water off the island’s West End.
Closer to the shore, you may be able to see dolphins playing in the waves, and long-nosed fur seals and sea lions lazing around on the shore near Cathedral Rocks.
Be near the water at Samphire Rottnest
Samphire Rottnest is the perfect Rottnest Island accommodation if you want to experience the water.
Wake up to the smell of the ocean, and go to sleep with the sound of the waves. Cool off on the beach during summer, and cosy up to the fireplace in the Samphire Club as you gaze out over the ocean.
Being near the water is essential for any Rottnest Island stay, so be sure to book a room with us and make the most of your time on the island.
