Western Australia · Attraction
Rottnest Island Cycling Loop
Arrive by sea, explore by bike
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
The most popular way to experience Rottnest Island is to catch a ferry from Fremantle or Perth and spend the day cycling the 22-kilometre island loop. With private cars banned from the island, the roads belong to cyclists, and the circuit takes in lighthouse views, sheltered bays, salt lakes and lookouts with barely a hill in sight. It is one of Western Australia's most iconic day trips.
Three ferry operators run services to Rottnest Island. The shortest crossing is from Fremantle, taking around 25 minutes. Ferries also depart from Perth's Barrack Street Jetty, a 90-minute crossing. Same-day return fares include the island admission fee. Booking ahead is strongly recommended as services sell out quickly in peak season.
Bikes are available to hire on arrival from one of the largest hire fleets in the southern hemisphere. Standard bikes, electric bikes and children's bikes are all available, and helmets are compulsory and included. The full 22-kilometre island loop takes between three and five hours depending on how many bays and lookouts you stop at.
A shorter mini loop suits families with young children, looping through bushland to The Basin and back. The absence of private vehicles makes every route feel open and unhurried, and quokkas are regularly spotted beside the road throughout the day.
Scenic views
Lookouts near Rottnest Island Cycling Loop.
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