Rottnest Island, Australia Introduces Six New Tourism Experiences for Summer 2026

New Summer Activities and Infrastructure on Rottnest Island

Visitors to Wadjemup/Rottnest Island, Australia will have access to six new tourism experiences and several infrastructure projects introduced for the summer period. The summer season begins with new activities, new businesses operating on the island, refurbished accommodation, and tourism-related improvements.

The six new businesses were selected through a recreational expression-of-interest process that opened in March, encouraging new and existing operators to offer experiences across the island.

The new offerings include Aboriginal art workshops, cultural walks, smoking ceremonies and language classes for groups delivered by Dooga Waalitj Healing. Koorda's Crew will offer immersive Aboriginal cultural activities for children, while Mirliny will provide interactive Aboriginal workshops and yarning sessions for schools.

Rotto Rackets Sports will operate pickleball courts and hire equipment at the redesigned Bathurst tennis courts. Rotto Rentals will provide beach essentials, including shade and water equipment. Guided island tours by rickshaw will be available through Rotto Rickshaws.

Infrastructure upgrades have been completed, including a new boardwalk in South Thomson and improvements to the Rottnest Island Airport. The Lodge Wadjemup poolside rooms are now open, and fifty-two Stay Rottnest accommodation units in Longreach Bay and Fay's Bay have been refurbished with updated kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas.

Late-night ferry services will operate until April 2026, offering visitors extended travel options after dark.

The new initiatives support the Rottnest Island Management Plan 2023-28, aiming to enhance the visitor experience and attract new travellers. The developments also align with the Cook Government’s economic diversification strategy by increasing tourism spending and supporting local businesses and employment.

Tourism Minister Reece Whitby said, “As Western Australia's premier tourism destination, these new businesses enhance the visitor experience for all visitors to Rottnest Island.

"I'm pleased to welcome these businesses and activities to Rottnest Island, complementing the variety of experiences already on offer, creating jobs, and helping to diversify the Western Australian economy."

Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk said, “These businesses will strengthen Rottnest Island's appeal to tourists while creating new opportunities for local jobs.

"As we head into summer, these investments ensure families and visitors can enjoy new experiences in a fun, active, and educational way on one of our most popular tourist attractions."