Rottnest Island (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Rottnest Island?
What makes it 75% Baby-Friendly: Pram-friendly paths, parenting rooms and free infant ferry travel aid feeds and diaper changes, though scarce shade at distant beaches and rough bike tracks lower comfort for babies and carers.
Positives:
- Pram-friendly paths: Most settlement routes are sealed and flat, easing pram movement across key areas.
- Free baby facilities: Digby Drive Parenting Room and public baby-change tables are available adjacent to toilets.
- Free infant travel: Babies travel free on ferries and buses when seated on a caregiver’s lap.
Challenges:
- Limited shade on beaches: Few natural shade spots at beaches mean you must bring sun shelters and umbrellas.
- Sparse facilities outside settlement: Baby-change rooms and toilets are mainly around Thomson Bay and Geordie Bay; few amenities elsewhere.
What is Rottnest Island?
- A nature reserve island off the coast of Perth featuring unique limestone landscapes, saltwater lakes and sandy coves
- A habitat for the endemic quokka and a diversity of coastal flora and marine ecosystems
- A heritage precinct showcasing Wadjemup Lighthouse, World War II fortifications and colonial-era architecture
What is so special about Rottnest Island for with baby?
- Flat, pram-friendly walks to The Basin’s calm waters.
- Private baby-change and feeding rooms at Thomson Bay.
- Hop-on/hop-off bus tours that fit prams and offer free infant travel.
- Most ferries and facilities allow free infant and pram access.
- Use Dome Cafe lounge for comfortable feeds and snacks.
Recommended visit duration: 4-6 hours
Why 4-6 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time for the ferry, settling in, pram strolls and using baby facilities without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Rottnest Island
Stroll to The Basin:
Flat, pram-friendly path leads from Thomson Bay to shallow waters at The Basin.
Tip: Start early to avoid heat and crowds; bring a hat and sunscreen for baby.
Dome Cafe lounge:
Shaded seating with soft chairs near Thomson Bay jetty, perfect for feeds.
Tip: Order coffee and snacks; use lounge seats for private breastfeeding or bottle feeding.
Island Explorer bus tour:
Hop-on/hop-off bus that fits prams, visits key island sights at your pace.
Tip: Fold pram when boarding; secure baby on caregiver’s lap to travel free.
Digby Drive Parenting Room:
Private room with change table and feeding space at Thomson Bay settlement.
Tip: Pick up the key from Visitor Centre; bring your own wipes or use provided facilities.
Ferry ride to Rottnest:
Most ferries allow one free pram and infant per adult on board.
Tip: Check operator rules when booking; fold pram on busy sailings.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Rottnest Island
- Pack a sun shelter: Bring a lightweight pop-up tent or umbrella for baby shade on beaches or trails.
- Bring your own picnic: Pre-packed snacks and meals save time in queues and suit baby feeding schedules.
- Use stroller locks: Carry a strap to secure stroller on the bus and when you step away.
Reviews of Rottnest Island
Katie Cunningham
Rottnest Island has changed so much in almost 30 year's! Sadly I didn't expect it to have become "overrun" by Public and Government people! The houses going up for "workers" was never there in 1999. It also sadens me that to do a full circle of the place in a massive Bus, is ruining the natural environment. A truly sad difference amongst those involved 👎
Tabby Cat
Great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and, who doesn't like the loveable quokka
Minh Le
The star (first photo) of this island truly captivates! It’s undoubtedly one of my favourite experiences in Perth. You won’t want to miss it!
Peter McGibbons
Great fun at Rottnest during winter. Much quieter and its still lovely. Trip over was a little rough, but back was fine. Great time had by us and the kids. Easy to getting into restaurants.
Leung Mark
The environment is great ! Water is clean and clear . Beaches are very nice . Quokkas are cute . I would suggest that the rottnest explorer bus can operate more frequently and maybe using a larger bus, also extend the service time to 5pm instead of 3. We were stuck at bus stop 7 for 90 mins due to bus was full and can’t get on board . Time was insufficient for a day trip to explore the whole is...
When is the best time to visit Rottnest Island (Perth, Australia)?
Summer (Dec–Feb) is hot; plan morning visits and carry sun protection. Winter (Jun–Aug) can be windy; layer baby in warm clothing.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ferry return (2 adults) | AUD 126 |
| Island Explorer bus passes (2 adults) | AUD 40 |
| Snacks at Dome Cafe | AUD 16 |
| Lunch/picnic supplies | AUD 25 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 207 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Rottnest Island
Address: Rottnest Island, WA, Australia
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