18 miles off the coast of Western Australia lies the remote Rottnest Island. Perhaps most famous for the quokka, the island has become a popular tourist destination in recent years among those looking to avoid the mania of places like Thailand.
How To Get There
Unless you're a strong swimmer (shark-like strong), getting to-and-from Rottnest has to be done by the ferry from Freemantle. The ferry takes 25 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on where you catch it from. Or alternatively hire your own private boat. If you are a birthday, work, or any other large group that is very affordable.
If you're feeling frivolous, it's possible to travel by air to the island, as private air taxi's transport tourists to and from their destination via a breathtakingly scenic route.
Sports and Activities
Lovers of walking and watersports will find Rottnest the ideal place to spend a vacation. With regular scenic walks planned across the islands notorious trail, you can be sure you'll sleep well at night. You can expect to see a whole host of sights, scenes and wild animals along the trails, making the 50km walks an enjoyable way to spend the day.
Being an island, the obvious love of everything wet is present, with boating, sailing and swimming being some of the most carried out activities.
Annual Events
One of Rottnest Island's most famous events is the annual Leavers ball. A wristband provides access to a selection of live performances, as well as the chance to get involved in festivities that accompany the concert.
Volleyball on the beach, a cosy bed, a buzzing nightlife and breakfast overlooking the sea can all be purchased for a reasonable amount of money.
The Rottnest carnival is another annual event, taking place each year in mid-September.
If the aim of your trip is to keep little ones quiet, summer holiday activities take place when school is out for the year. These summer holiday activities occur at different times to the festivals, so don't worry, little Sammy and Sally won't be nagging you to take them into a bar.
Where to Eat And Drink
As part of it's pledge to send you home 'bloody relaxed', Rottnest takes its eating and drinking seriously. Whatever your fancy, there's probably going to be something for you.
The Governors Sports Bar offers cold beer and large TV's to catch whatever action happens to be taking place whenever you're there on. And for a more reserved experience, Hotel Rottnest provides great food, a selection of wines, and a view worth the tip at the end.
If a quick snack is what you're after, perhaps the local Subway will be for you. Choose from the classic Subway sandwiches then take your meal across to the Bay to enjoy it in true Aussie style.