Western Australia · Attraction
Quokka Encounters on Wadjemup
Meet the world's happiest animal
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Rottnest Island, or Wadjemup in Noongar, is home to roughly 10,000 quokkas, making it the largest population of this vulnerable marsupial anywhere on earth. These small, curious creatures wander freely through the settlement and beaches, famously photogenic and apparently always grinning. The island is the place that turned the quokka selfie into a global social media phenomenon.
Quokkas roam the island without fear of predators, which is why they approach visitors so readily. They are most active at dawn and dusk, but you will encounter them throughout the day near the main settlement at Thomson Bay, around the bakery and cafes, and along the paths to The Basin.
Federal and state law prohibits handling, feeding or disturbing quokkas. The rule exists to protect their health, as human food causes serious dehydration and malnutrition in these animals.
The best quokka selfie technique is to crouch low, hold your phone at their eye level and wait patiently. They will often wander into frame on their own. Never chase or corner them, and always keep dogs off the island entirely.
Scenic views
Lookouts near Quokka Encounters on Wadjemup.
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