Rottnest Island is one of Western Australia’s most popular destinations, famous for its quokkas, clear turquoise water, historic buildings, and car-free atmosphere. That last point is the key one for hire car visitors: Rottnest Island does not permit private vehicles on the island. You cannot take your hire car to Rottnest, regardless of which ferry service you use. But your hire car still plays an important role in making the trip happen.
Burswood Car Rentals has been helping Perth visitors explore Western Australia for over 42 years. This guide explains the Rottnest logistics clearly so you can plan your trip with confidence. Browse our Perth hire car options for a vehicle that suits your itinerary.
Hire a Car to Get to the Rottnest FerryBurswood Car Rentals: no hidden fees, near Perth Airport, from $25/day. Call (08) 9362 4777. |
Why There Are No Cars on Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island has been car-free for private vehicles since the 1930s. This policy is managed by the Rottnest Island Authority under the Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987. The only motor vehicles operating on the island are managed by the Rottnest Island Authority for essential services, emergency response, accommodation, and specific tourism operations. No private vehicles, hire cars, or passenger vehicles are permitted on the ferry services for general visitor access.
This policy is central to the island’s appeal: the absence of traffic noise and the ability to cycle freely around the island is a defining feature of the Rottnest experience.
How Your Hire Car Gets You to Rottnest
While your hire car cannot cross the water to Rottnest, it plays an important role in getting you to the ferry terminal. There are three main ferry departure points for Rottnest Island from the Perth area:
| Ferry terminal | Distance from Perth CBD | Drive time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrack Street Jetty, Perth | City centre | Walk / city parking | Most central; good if you are staying in the CBD |
| Fremantle Passenger Terminal | ~19km from Perth CBD | ~30 minutes | Most departures operate from here; large adjacent parking facilities |
| Hillary’s Boat Harbour | ~24km north of Perth CBD | ~25 minutes | Northern suburbs departure point; useful if staying north of Perth |
Your hire car can be driven to the ferry terminal of your choice and parked in the designated car parks while you are on the island.
Getting Around Rottnest Island
Once on the island, the primary transport options for visitors are:
- Bicycle hire: cycling is the classic Rottnest experience and the best way to reach the beaches and bays scattered around the island. Bike hire is available from multiple operators on the island. Book in advance during school holidays and peak periods
- Island Explorer bus: a hop-on hop-off bus service connects the main settlement with the beaches and attractions around the island. A day pass is available and suits visitors who prefer not to cycle
- Organised tours: guided tours by bus and electric cart cover the island’s history, wildlife, and geography. Rottnest Island operates its own guided tours from the main visitor hub
- Walking: the settlement area and some nearby beaches are accessible on foot. The island is larger than it appears, and walking to the outer beaches is a full-day commitment
Spotting Quokkas
Rottnest Island is one of the only places in the world where quokkas can be easily observed in their natural habitat. These small, friendly marsupials are found throughout the island and are particularly concentrated around the main settlement. They are wild animals and should not be fed, but they are accustomed to human presence and are a highlight of most Rottnest visits.
| 💡 Book your ferry in advance, especially for weekend and school holiday visits: Rottnest Island ferries, particularly the fast-ferry services from Fremantle, book out well in advance during peak periods. Book your ferry tickets before you book anything else, and then plan your hire car dates around the ferry departure and return schedule. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there parking at the Fremantle ferry terminal?
Yes. The Fremantle Passenger Terminal has commercial car parking facilities nearby. Parking at the terminal costs more than parking further from the waterfront and walking, so if you plan to leave your hire car for a full day or overnight, consider the parking options in the wider Fremantle area versus parking at the terminal directly.
Can I do Rottnest Island as a day trip?
Yes, day trips to Rottnest are the most common format. The fast ferry from Fremantle takes approximately 30 minutes. A day trip allows six to eight hours on the island, which is enough to cycle the main circuit, visit two or three beaches, and see the quokkas in the settlement. An overnight stay opens up more of the island. Burswood Car Rentals’ flexible hire options make it easy to match your hire period to your Rottnest itinerary.