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The relaxed atmosphere at Rottnest Island is as popular with the
locals as it is with the thousands of tourists that visit Perth
each year. Attractions include a string of sugar-white beaches
and emerald bays to sunbathe on, a local bakery and coffee shop,
the quokkas (marsupial) and the interpretive history and
heritage tours. The accommodation on the island is simple and
comfortable - much of it exhibiting an architectural style
dating back to the 1800s.
The island is an extremely popular spot for water-based
activities. You can surf, scuba dive, snorkel, or enjoy a swim
in the sheltered bays. The waters and reefs surrounding the
island offer some exceptional abalone, squid, many species of
fish and delicious rock lobster for those who can catch them!
The Rottnest Island ferries depart Hillarys Boat Harbour, the
port of Fremantle and the center of Perth all year round. As
bicycles are the only form of transport permitted on the island,
hire bikes are readily available.
Lord Howe Island
 Lord Howe Island is part of the state of New South Wales and
lies some 700 kilometres (440 miles) north-east of Sydney, and
450 kilometres (280 miles) off mainland Australia. Lord Howe is
the lone survivor of an extinct volcano chain and the world's
southern-most coral reef, and measures 11 kilometres (7 miles)
in length and less than 3 kilometres (2 miles) across at its
widest point. With its World Heritage status, Lord Howe Island
boasts an incredible natural environment providing plenty of
activity from mountaineering on the high peaks to snorkelling in
the lagoon. The climate on Lord Howe Island makes it an ideal
year round destination. The warm sub-tropical climate averages
26 degrees Celsius in summer and 16 degrees Celsius in winter.
Lord Howe Island is accessible by air from Sydney and Brisbane,
however, while on the island, bicycles are a popular form of
transportation. Visitors can explore the island's forests,
beaches and wildlife or discover the world's southern-most coral
reef. Lord Howe Island is well known for bushwalking, fishing
and diving with other activities available including swimming,
surfing, snorkelling, reef walks, golf, bowling, and tennis.
Various learn to dive and other charter vessels are available to
take visitors to the reef.
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