Travellers have discovered an incredible ‘hidden gem’ beach with the ‘clearest waters in Oceania’ – and it’s a 25-minute ferry ride away from a major Australian city.
Tucked away on the northern tip of Rottnest Island, Parakeet Bay sprawls across pristine white sand and opens up to the Indian Ocean.
The perfect day-trip from Perth, Parakeet Bay is ideal for families or those seeking a quiet day on the beach close to shallow, well-protected waters filled with friendly sea life.
Swimmers will find themselves in the company of sting rays and schools of rainbow fish, among various other harmless ocean creatures.
The area’s limestone cliffs offer a picture-perfect backdrop for making memories and relaxing under the Western Australian sun.
Travellers have discovered an incredible ‘hidden gem’ beach with the ‘clearest waters in Oceania’ lurking a 25-minute ferry ride away from a major Australian city
Adventurers can hop on three possible ferries from Perth, leaving from North Fremantle (Rous Head), Fremantle (Victoria Quay), and Hillary’s Boat Harbour in Perth’s north with trips ranging from 25 minutes to 90 minutes
Hikers can also traverse the Gabbi Karniny Bidi, a 9.5 km loop that takes you up hills, through the patchwork of Rottnest Island bushland, and winds its way amongst the island’s salt lake systems.
The three-hour hike stops along Parakeet Bay on its way into the island’s interior.
Travellers can expect bird’s eye views at Vlamingh Lookout and skirt around the island’s several lakes.
The route will also take you through the eponymous Pink Lake on its way back to the town centre.
Tucked away in the northern tip of Rottnest Island, Parakeet Bay sprawls across pristine white sand and opens up to the Indian Ocean
The perfect day-trip from Perth , Parakeet Bay is ideal for families or those seeking a quiet day on the beach close to shallow, well-protected waters filled with friendly sea life
Swimmers will find themselves in the company of sting rays and schools of rainbow fish, among various other harmless ocean creatures
Adventurers can hop on three possible ferries from Perth, leaving from North Fremantle (Rous Head), Fremantle (Victoria Quay), and Hillary’s Boat Harbour in Perth’s north with trips ranging from 25 minutes to 90 minutes.
It’s also possible to get to Rottnest Island via a private boat, helicopter, or seaplane.
Once on the island, travellers can take the Quokka Coaches Island Explorer and hop off at Stop 18, then walk the 400 metres to the beach.
Parakeet Bay is close to the main townsite, with many choosing to pick the scenic option and bike the 12 minutes by bike from the Thomson Bay settlement.
Thousands have shared their love for the beach’s open waters and diamond sand.
‘I love Parakeet Bay, I go there every time I’m in Perth,’ one said. ‘Very quiet and peaceful.’
‘Beautiful beach and it’s great to lie in the sand and read,’ another added. ‘My husband loves to swim there with our kids.’
A third said, ‘Wow, I need to add this to my bucket list.’