Rottnest Island Day Tour

Itinerary

Your itinerary for the Rottnest Island Day Tour includes:

• Pickup from Perth Airport and private helicopter flight to Rottnest Island
• Scenic aerial views of Perth CBD, Kings Park, Swan River, and the Indian Ocean coastline
• Flight path over Cottesloe Beach, City Beach, and possible sightings of whales, dolphins, and seals
• Landing at Rottnest Island Airport with up to 6 hours of free time to explore the island
• Self-guided activities including swimming, snorkeling, biking, and visiting local highlights like Lake Baghdad and the Quokka habitats
• Return flight to Perth
• Optional: Take the ferry back to Perth.

What to Expect from Rottnest Island Tours via Helicopter

Your tour of Rottnest Island starts in Perth, where you'll board a state-of-the-art chopper and fly roughly 30 kilometres to Rottnest. It's just a short flight, but along the way, you'll see sights such as the Perth CBD skyline, Elizabeth Quay, Kings Park, and the Swan River.

The flight tracks west until you get to the Indian Ocean, where you'll fly over coastal areas such as Cottesloe and City Beach, spectacular sights to see from the air. The flight continues over the Indian Ocean, and if you're lucky, you might see some whales, rays, seals, dolphins, and other wildlife.

Once you land at Rottnest Island, you'll be given the opportunity to explore the island for several hours on your own. Rottnest island is a great place to spend time on sand, have a great time swimming and going for a snorkel, and so much more.

The island is also home to several popular tourist locations that you must visit, with Lake Baghdad being right at the top of the list.

Spend the day on the island, see unique wildlife, saltwater lakes, beaches, and so much more. With plenty of musiems and galleries, boathouses, restaurants, and more, it's the perfect place to select as far as an accessible island adventure goes.

Now, this is a round trip, which allows for six hours of ground time before it takes you back to Perth. However, you also have the option to make the helicopter ride a one-way trip, and then take the ferry back, allowing you to travel by both air and sea.

What's Included in the Rottnest Island Day Tour?

Included in your Rottnest Island day tour is, first, the helicopter flight itself, which provides you with a spectacular view of the ground and water below.

The helicopter features a spacious and air-conditioned cabin, along with ample legroom, large windows, and noise-cancelling headsets. Your pilot will also provide you with commentary along the way, acting as your tour guide.

Once you arrive at Rottnest Island, you'll be left to your own devices, so you can choose what you want to experience, whether it's snorkeling, swimming, beach crawling, going to see some seals, or just relaxing on a beautiful island getaway. With plenty of restaurants to visit, there's no shortage of great food either.

At the ned of it all, a helicopter ride back to Perth awaits. However, there is the option to decline the helicopter ride and take the ferry on the return.

About the Destination

You might know it as Rottnest Island, but the locals call it Rotto, and it's a beautiful little island just south of Perth - known for its shimmering waters, warm sands, and wildlife galore, along with plenty more to do than just explore the beaches.

Meet the Quokkas

Quokkas are the island's resident marsupial. They're both friendly and photogenic, and you can see them quite literally everywhere on the island. The caveat is that they're only found on Rottnest Island and nowhere else.

Beaches and Bays

With over 60 beaches and 20 bays, Rottnest Island is a beach lovers paradise. The Basin, Little Parakeet Bay, and Little Salmon Bay are just a few of the spots known for their calm, clear waters and soft sand. The underwater life here is incredible, perfect for snorkeling or swimming with fish and maybe even a sea turtle or two.

Salt Lakes

Inland from the coast, Rotto has a network of salt lakes that offer a different perspective. Two of the most popular are Lake Baghdad and Lake Vincent.

Lake Baghdad with its turquoise waters and white salt crust is almost surreal - located in the middle of the island and a favourite for photographers and birdwatchers. During warmer months the salt crystals shimmer in the sun and the lake glows.

Lake Vincent is just east of the main settlement. A walking and biking path wraps around it and offers nice views and a quiet break from the beach crowds. Both lakes are a haven for migratory birds as well.

Cycling and Hiking

No cars are allowed on the island, so bikes are the way to get around. You can hire one right off the ferry and hit the trails. Renting a bike costs next to nothing. From gentle loops to longer rides around the salt lakes and coastal cliffs, there’s a route for every ability. Walkers can explore the Wadjemup Bidi trail system, which connects cultural sites, lookouts and native bushland.

Water Activities

Snorkeling and diving are big here thanks to the coral reefs and shipwrecks offshore. Thomson Bay and Geordie Bay are calm for paddleboarding or kayaking, Strickland Bay for surfers and fishing from boat or shore.

History and Culture

Rottnest Island has a complex and important history. It was an Aboriginal prison during colonial times, something you'll learn all about thanks to nifty little signs and placards.

You’ll also find remnants of its military past including, World War II barracks and gun emplacements. The Rottnest Island Museum and Salt Store Gallery are worth a visit for more information on anything historical.

Dining and Relaxation

When you need to chill out head to Pinky’s Beach Club for cocktails with a view, or Hotel Rottnest for a pub meal right on the water. Frankie’s on Rotto is a laid back spot with a solid pizza menu - or grab a fish and chips and eat by the beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the departure point for this tour?

The helicopter takes of from Perth Airport and lands at Rottnest Airport.

What's something I have to see on Rottnest Island?

Many people take a helicopter trip or short ferry ride to Rottnest Island to see the Cathedral Rocks, salt lakes and crystal clear waters, New Zealand fur seals and other unique wildlife.

How long is the helicopter flight from Perth to Rottnest Island?

The flight from Perth to Rottnest Island takes roughly 20 minutes, allowing you to experience plenty of sights as you fly overtop on this wonderful journey.