Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Rottnest Island. Rottnest Island Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside RTS
A few things to sort out before you leave RTS:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Australia. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Rottnest Island takes about 30 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Rottnest Island
You have two main options for getting from Rottnest Island Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Rottnest Island might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Rottnest Island.
What’s Worth Seeing in Rottnest Island
Two recommendations for your time in Rottnest Island:
Start with Quokka Encounter & Selfie. Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Then, if time allows, make your way to Relax at Thomson Bay Beach. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
If you’d rather stay inside RTS — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Rottnest Island Airfield Viewing
- Thomson Bay General Store
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Rottnest Island: Pinky’s Beach Club and Hotel Rottnest (Bistro). Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Dome Cafe Rottnest Island or Rottnest Bakery. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at RTS may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Rottnest Island’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at RTS for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Rottnest Island or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at RTS include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Australia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Rottnest Island with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Rottnest Island may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.