Forget Hawaii — This Underrated Island With Gorgeous Beaches And Turquoise Waters Is Getting More Popular In 2026

When travelers dream of turquoise waters and idyllic beaches, Hawaii often tops the list. But thousands of miles away, off the coast of Western Australia, Rottnest Island is emerging as one of the world's most relaxed island vacation destinations. Named one of Time Out's best places to visit in 2026 for good reasons: crystal-clear bays, abundant wildlife, and a laid-back vibe, all contributing to the rise in popularity of this predominantly car-free paradise.

Often referenced by its Aboriginal name, Wadjemup, meaning "the land across the sea where the spirits are", the island isn't a secret to Australian travelers, who made up 85% of the island's visitors in 2023, according to booking platform Camper Champ. However, since the pandemic, the island has seen a rise in international tourists looking to sink their toes into the soft white sand of Rottnest's 63 beaches, bike or hike one of the five main hiking trails, all accessible year-round.

Growth in international flights into Perth has made the island more accessible to international tourists. Located 12 miles off the coast, Rottnest is most easily accessed by a short ferry ride, just 25 to 90 minutes, depending on the route. While it is doable as a day trip, in recent years the Western Australia tourism board has made considerable investments to facilitate extended tourist stays, including additional restaurants and luxury accommodations.

With more than 60 beaches and 20 bays packed into just 7 square miles, beach hopping on Rottnest is pure bliss. White sand, impossibly clear turquoise water, and sheltered coves mean you're never far from a postcard-worthy stretch of coastline and the signature beach beauty and landscapes that Australia is known for. All ferries destined for Rottnest land at the main jetty at Thomson Bay, with beaches just a few minutes' walk away.

One of the island's most famous swimming spots is The Basin, a lagoon naturally protected by the surrounding reef. A 10-minute walk from the Thomson Bay Visitor Center, it's a favorite for anyone looking to float in what feels like a giant natural swimming pool. For those willing to venture a little farther, Little Salmon Bay rewards visitors with vibrant coral reefs and calm waters that make it one of the island's best places to spot colorful fish beneath the surface. A series of informational plaques installed along a unique snorkel trail educate snorkellers about the marine life in that area. Meanwhile, Pinky Beach pairs excellent swimming conditions with sweeping views of Bathurst Lighthouse and has earned a reputation as one of the island's premier sunset spots.

Those extending their stay can choose from countless options on the eastern side of the island. Connect with nature at a glamping-style eco-resort tucked behind the dunes, or choose from beachfront cottages, cabins, hostels, campgrounds, and boutique hotels clustered around Thomson Bay.

In 2017, Tourism Western Australia launched a marketing campaign featuring the most endearing resident of Rottnest Island, the quokka, posing for a selfie with tennis legend Roger Federer on Instagram. Since then, #quokkaselfie has continued to trend on the platform, with tens of thousands of posts to date. Australia is the only spot in the world to find these small marsupials in the wild, and the island takes its colonial name from Dutch explorers who mistook them for rats.

While quokkas can be spotted around the island all year, August is particularly delightful for visitors who might spot a tiny joey peeking out of its mother's pouch. Island volunteers offer free daily walking tours to spot quokkas and other island wildlife, which include nesting sites for several unique Australian bird species, such as fairy terns and the pied oystercatcher.

Like many other top island getaways in Australia, more stunning wildlife can be found beneath the waves. Vibrant and diverse marine life thrives in Rottnest's five marine sanctuary zones, including whales, dolphins, and fur seals. Snorkelers and scuba divers can find tropical and temperate fish species hiding among colorful coral reefs, explore more than thirteen shipwrecks, and drift through ethereal swim-throughs.