The Island is an A class Reserve with all wildlife and flora protected. The Island is 11km in length and 4.5km at its widest point and enjoys warmer winters and cooler summers than Perth because of its location. The Island was first used as a penal colony and latter bacame a military installation during World War 2. It was first used as a holiday resort by Western Australian Governors between 1848 and 1919. On your visit to Rottnest there is much to see and do.
Water sports abound.
For scuba divers and snorklers there is wonders to see on the reefs off of Rottnest with 97 species of tropical fish here for you to view. Some of the best surfing in Western Australia is found around the Island with Strickland Bay and Cathedral Rocks being especially good. The sheltered bays and beaches are great for swimming. Popular spots are Geordie Bay, The Basin and Longreach Bay. The fishing is great here as well and is for the recreational angler only.