Champagne tastes or beer budget, there are accommodation options for everyone at Rottnest Island. Here are some of the best places to stay on Rottnest, whether you’re a solo traveller or on a family getaway.
Samphire Hotel
Samphire Hotel
Deciding between the pool or a sunset dip in the Indian Ocean may be the most difficult decision you’ll make while staying at Samphire Hotel. The hotel opened late last year and its breezy-luxe appeal fills a gap in the upper end of Rottnest’s accommodation offering. Perched a sarong-length from the waters of Thomson Bay, guests can choose between a spacious ocean, pool or beach lane room. The Ocean View king suites have a rain shower and double vanity. The contemporary, natural interiors complement the native landscaping around the property and there are other distractions too, namely the hotel’s signature restaurant, Lontara, with its Asian-inspired menu, or cocktails and snacks at the beach bar. During our stay, even though the hotel was fully booked, it never felt crowded and you could always find a place to lounge around the pool or bar. You can order your pool snacks using the nifty QR code reader by the pool.
Discover Rottnest Glamping
Discovery Rottnest
Another recent arrival, Discovery Rottnest Island brings 83 eco-glamping tents to the dunes behind Pinky’s Beach, one of Rottnest’s most beautiful beaches. All rooms have ensuites and decks, while the deluxe tents offer a kitchenette, Weber BBQ, day bed and ocean views. Some of the tents are close together, so if you’re a light sleeper, you may wish to request a more private tent if available. The Basin and Thomson Bay Settlement are both an easy stroll away. Discovery is also home to Pinky’s Beach Club, a really striking resort pool, bar and restaurant near Bathurst Lighthouse, overlooking the Rottnest Channel. It’s got to be one of the loveliest spots to gaze back toward the mainland and remind yourself that you’re on holiday. They do a great mimosa too.
Balcony view from Rottnest’s Karma Lodge
Karma Rottnest Lodge
The heritage Karma Rottnest Lodge has been a popular mainstay of Rottnest Island for years and is located right in the heart of the Thomson Bay Settlement. There are rooms to suit different tastes and budgets, from Palm Court and Lakeside standard rooms, which are great for families, to the more spacious offering with balconies overlooking Government Lake. These were refurbished not too long ago and are a great choice for couples, mates’ weekends and small families. Other highlights are breakfast by the pool or dinner at Mediterranean restaurant Riva or Gov’s Sports Bar. Gov’s Bar is a bit of an institution as far as quirky sports bars go, but that’s part of its charm and it hosts fun quiz nights and there is always Fox Sports and Racing on the telly.
Rottnest Island – Villas and Bungalows
The classic Rottnest Island stay. True, there are no mod-cons but simplicity and beach proximity has made them a winner over generations. The villas and heritage bungalows are located around Thomson Bay, Bathurst, Kingstown, Longreach Bay, Geordie Bay and Fay’s Bay, with different configurations to suit your stay and budget. All are self-contained with a kitchen, courtyard and BBQs, while the premium ocean view villas have sea vistas, balconies/verandahs and a Nespresso machine. If booking for the holidays, pay attention to the booking periods as they often book out in hours. Both the General Bay, Geordie Bay stores and the Boatshed in Cottesloe can organise grocery delivery to your villa. Book here.
