13 Feb 2020
Updated December 2021
With a $1 million renovation of Pinky's Beach Club nearing completion, there are now even more reasons to visit one of Australia's most breathtaking coastal destinations and premium glamping experiences.
Heralding a new era of eco-tourism on the island when it launched in 2019, the current renovations at Discovery Rottnest Island will raise the bar even further on what is already an amazing family holiday location just a short ferry ride off the coast of WA.
Work is underway on a brand new resort-style breakfast buffet, which will also eventually include its own all-purpose weather enclosure, perfect for any private function and great for guests who prefer a premium dining space in any conditions, all-year round.
A newly developed al-fresco lawn space is an important part of the improvements, providing areas of shade for the warmer summer months, and a new outdoor 'grab-and-go' food outlet and decking that will boast epic views of Pinky's Bay and those world-famous Pinky's sunsets.
Image Credit: @pinkysbeachclub
An upgraded accommodation option for larger families or groups of up to ten will arrive in the shape of the Deluxe Family Tent, which is now bookable for January 2022 and showcases a large, shared deck as well as an outdoor kitchen and shower.
Read Also: A Quick Guide to Rottnest Island
Why choose Discovery Rottnest Island?
WA locals have known about this enviable holiday destination for decades. Now the secret is well and truly out to the rest of Australia!
Only a short ferry ride from Perth's CBD, Discovery Rottnest Island is nestled sweetly behind the dunes of the iconic Pinky Beach and offers a holiday park with a luxurious difference.
83 safari-style eco-tents create a glamping experience with million dollar sunset views and the chance to wake up to the sound of waves just metres from your door. Need we say more?
You can also get close to nature by meeting the friendliest Rottnest locals, aka the island's unique population of quokka's, the cutest little macropods you've ever seen!
What to see on Rottnest Island
Two-wheeled power is the most flexible way to explore Rottnest Island.
Ride the easy-going island terrain with your own bike (which you can bring with you on the ferry) or hire one from Pedal & Flipper, which has a huge range to choose from.
Cycling the entire island can take anywhere from 2 to 5 hours depending on your sight-seeing, beach-dipping and quokka-snapping agenda, but there are plenty of bike trails to follow, so we suggest just jumping on your bike and moving forward. You won't regret taking the short climb up to the Wadjemup Lighthouse for spectacular ocean views.
If you’re after an alternative, or just can’t be bothered pushing on the pedals, hop on a segway and glide around the island with Segway Tours WA. Again, this is a choose-your-own-adventure where you can cruise along beachside paths or get off-road to explore more of the island’s history and natural habitat.
If some time out of the sun is called for, then why not see the latest blockbuster at Rottnest Island Picture Hall?
Don't worry, you'll never feel too far from the beach here, as this olde-time theatre has deckchairs for seats! The Candy Bar is cash only, too, so bring your coins if you want to stock up on popcorn, choc-tops and other classic treats. Head to their website to check out what's on and when. They also have a mini-golf course and arcade games that are perfect for the whole family!
For a Rottnest Island history lesson, take the scenic train ride from the Settlement Railway Station to Oliver Hill and head underground! Then take the guided or self-guided tour and learn about Rottnest’s involvement in World War II through a maze of eerie underground tunnels and recently restored artillery guns.
What to eat on Rottnest Island
For a truly local dining experience you don't have to move far from your tent!
Pinky’s Beach Club is located inside the resort and offers breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Breakfast is served until 11:30am, so you can sleep in and wake up to brunch with the Bathurst Point Lighthouse in full-frontal view. Follow this up with some relaxed poolside eats for lunch and don't forget to have a signature Pinky’s Beach Club cocktail in hand!
As part of the developments taking place during summer 2021/22, a pop-up kitchen serving burgers, fish and chips, and share platters suitable for the whole family will open.
We recommend making dinner a casual sunset affair with their bar and restaurant style menu complemented by the best available West Australian wines.
Varied menu offerings are available with a refined a la carte option for guests, including fresh seafood and local produce always at the forefront. Don't forget to try the Lighthouse Tacos and Sticky Finger Chicken Wings!
If you’re keen to explore the island's culinary scene, we recommend the following options:
For iconic Aussie bites, head to Rottnest Bakery.
With so many options to choose from, you’ll struggle to make a decision, so one visit may not be enough! However, if time is short, don’t pass on their homemade meat pies, jam doughnuts and sourdough bread loaves.
To 'push the boat out' a little more, a Rottnest Cruise Wild Seafood Experience could be just the ticket. Spend 3-hours on-board learning about the Western Rock Lobster before indulging in one you’ve personally caught! Check out their full menu here.
What to do on Rottnest Island
At the top of every to do list on Rottnest Island should be that perfect Quokka selfie!
We guarantee no judgement, as every island visitor will be doing the same thing! It can be quite the challenge to get their attention though, so here are a few tips get the money shot you're after:
1. Be patient!
2. Get down to their level.
3. Use a selfie stick if you have one.
4. Entice them with some native vegetation (human food is bad for them).
5. Smile!
As an island paradise, any trip to Rottnest will feature all the aquatic sports you've ever dreamed of!
Swimming, snorkelling, surfing, paddle boarding and sea biking are all popular here. And don't worry if you haven't brought your own gear, Aquaplay Rottnest has you covered!
For waterlovers, The Basin is one of the most popular swimming spots on the island, and just a short 5-minute walk from Discovery Rottnest Island.
This beach is super safe as it is surrounded by a jagged headland that makes it impossible for sharks to enter. You don’t need to lug around shade tents either, Rotto Shade Hire is a family-run business who hire out quality beach umbrellas, chairs and a range of toys for the kids!
Little Salmon Bay is another sheltered bay perfect for families with crystal-clear waters and an underwater trail with plaques teaching you all about Rottnest Island’s unique marine life.
Head to the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre for snorkelling recommendations in general or book a guided snorkelling tour to ensure you don’t miss a thing below the surface.
After exploring underwater, why not fall in love with the island from above with Skydive Geronimo? Thrill-seekers can choose a tandem jump that suits them and get that freefall feeling over paradise!
ExperienceOZ has heaps of other amazing Rottnest Island adventures to choose from too, and if you're a G'day Rewards member you’ll save 15% on all bookings*
Not a G'day Rewards member? Find out more about being one here.
Where to stay on Rottnest Island
Our open-plan safari tents are elevated, have a solid floor, ceiling fans and can accommodate 2 to 5 with king/queen size bed and/or single bunk configurations.
As of Christmas 2021 we will also be able to offer Deluxe Family Tents which can sleep up to 5 and connect to a neighbouring tent with a shared deck area - ideal for larger family groups!
In total the property features 83 eco-tents and is the ideal escape for families, adventure seekers, beach-lovers, or those looking to spoil their other half with a romantic escape.
The Deluxe Oceanside Tent is our largest tent and ideal for a couple seeking a premium experience. Sip a signature cocktail from Pinky's on your private balcony while the sun goes down over the island's famous dunes.
If you're travelling as a family, the Superior Family Tent sleeps up to 5 and takes the stress out of family camping by including a kitchenette, all bed linen and bath towels. You will also have access to the resort facilities which include a large swimming pool, BBQ area and room service from Pinky’s Beach Club!
There's nothing standard about our Standard Tents either.
Perfect for couples, you’ll still enjoy the comforts of home with a queen-size bed, ensuite, ceiling fan and outdoor deck with furniture. Dinner can be self-catered at one of the shared BBQ stations or with a ready-to-go or custom food pack from Pinky’s Beach Club. Ask about these when you book in!
There are also four Access Tents which have been designed with mobility impaired access in mind and include additional fittings like bathroom railings and a separate sleeping facility for families and carers.
