Rottnest Island Unveils New Attractions and Upgraded Facilities for Summer Tourists

Published on December 6, 2025

Rottnest Island (Wadjemup) is preparing to offer an elevated experience for visitors this summer with a series of new attractions, unique cultural experiences, and significant infrastructure upgrades. As one of Western Australia’s most cherished holiday destinations, the island is set to welcome an influx of tourists with fresh, diverse offerings, alongside improved facilities designed to enhance comfort, accessibility, and convenience.

In a bid to expand its tourism offerings, Rottnest Island has introduced six new operators, carefully selected through a competitive process launched in March 2025. These new ventures introduce a wealth of cultural, recreational, and family-friendly activities, aimed at drawing in a broad spectrum of travelers. Whether guests are seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, the island’s latest experiences promise something for everyone.

Among the highlights are a range of cultural activities designed to immerse visitors in the island’s deep Indigenous heritage. Tourists can participate in Aboriginal art workshops, cultural walks, and traditional smoking ceremonies, offering them a firsthand experience of the island’s historical significance. In addition, interactive language classes will give visitors an opportunity to learn the traditional languages of the region. For families, there are fun and educational cultural programs created specifically for children, providing young visitors with the chance to engage with the island’s Aboriginal culture in a playful and accessible way.

In addition to cultural activities, Rottnest Island is introducing several exciting recreational options. Sports enthusiasts will be thrilled to discover new pickleball courts, providing an opportunity to enjoy this popular, fast-paced sport on the island. Equipment for pickleball and other outdoor activities will be available for hire through Rotto Rackets Sports, offering guests everything they need to make the most of their active pursuits. For those looking to enjoy a laid-back day by the sea, the island will also offer a beach essentials rental service. This new service will provide visitors with everything they need to enjoy a perfect day on Rottnest’s pristine beaches—whether it’s umbrellas, beach chairs, snorkeling gear, or kayaks.

For a completely unique way to explore Rottnest Island, visitors can now enjoy guided rickshaw tours, which will provide a relaxing and scenic ride through the island’s most iconic spots. The rickshaw tours are designed to offer a leisurely experience, making them perfect for families, seniors, or anyone looking to explore the island at a slower pace. With the chance to sit back and take in the breathtaking views, this new addition will be an unforgettable way to see the island.

These exciting new offerings are complemented by a number of major infrastructure upgrades aimed at enhancing the overall visitor experience. A new boardwalk at South Thomson has been constructed, providing easier access to some of the island’s most stunning vistas while making it more accessible for people of all abilities. This addition is perfect for those looking to explore the island’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace. Visitors will be able to enjoy scenic walks with expansive views of the surrounding coastline and waters, all while enjoying improved accessibility.

Rottnest Island’s airport is also undergoing significant renovations to cater to the growing number of visitors. The upgrades are designed to streamline the arrival process, providing quicker and more efficient access for those traveling to the island. As tourism continues to increase, these improvements are critical to ensuring a smooth and hassle-free arrival experience for all visitors.

Accommodation options on the island have also been given a major boost. The Lodge Wadjemup has unveiled newly designed poolside rooms, offering a more modern and comfortable stay for guests. In addition, 52 Stay Rottnest units in Longreach Bay and Fay’s Bay have undergone extensive refurbishments, with upgrades including new kitchens, renovated bathrooms, and enhanced outdoor areas. These modernized units will offer guests greater comfort and convenience, whether they are on a short getaway or a longer stay.

For those looking to travel later in the day, the island’s late-night ferry services will continue through April 2026. This extended schedule allows greater flexibility for visitors, particularly for those wishing to enjoy the island’s vibrant evenings or explore after the crowds have thinned. The late-night ferry options ensure that visitors can plan their trip with more freedom, adding an extra layer of convenience.

The range of new attractions and infrastructure improvements is part of the Rottnest Island Management Plan 2023–28, which focuses on enhancing the island’s tourism appeal while ensuring sustainable growth. This plan aims to boost visitor numbers, create local jobs, and support economic diversification efforts in the region. It also underscores the commitment to preserving Rottnest Island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while improving the overall experience for tourists.

With these exciting new developments, Rottnest Island is set to provide a richer, more diverse experience for all its visitors. Whether they’re engaging with Indigenous culture, enjoying a new sport, or simply relaxing on the beach, tourists will find a wealth of new experiences to enjoy. The combination of innovative tourism offerings, new recreational facilities, and modernized accommodations ensures that Rottnest Island will continue to be one of Australia’s top travel destinations for years to come. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful escape in nature, Rottnest Island has something special waiting for you.