Ditch Noosa and head to Parakeet Bay this summer – the picturesque hidden gem beach with clearest water in Australia
Travelers have discovered an incredible ‘hidden gem’ beach with the ‘clearest water in Oceania’ – and it’s a 25-minute ferry ride from a major Australian city.
Tucked away on the northern tip of Rottnest Island, Parakeet Bay stretches across pristine white sand and opens to the Indian Ocean.
The perfect day trip from Perth, Parakeet Bay is ideal for families or those looking for a quiet day at the beach, close to shallow, well-protected waters full of friendly marine life.
Swimmers find themselves in the company of rays and schools of rainbowfish, among several other harmless ocean creatures.
The area’s limestone cliffs provide a perfect backdrop for making memories and relaxing under the Western Australian sun.
Travelers have discovered an incredible ‘hidden gem’ beach with the ‘clearest water in Oceania’, a 25-minute ferry ride from a major Australian city
Tucked away at the northern tip of Rottnest Island, Parakeet Bay stretches across pristine white sand and opens to the Indian Ocean
Hikers can also traverse the Gabbi Karniny Bidi, a 9.5km loop that takes you up the hills, through Rottnest Island’s patchwork bushland, and winds its way between the island’s salt lakes.
The three-hour walk stops along Parakeet Bay on the way into the island’s interior.
Travelers can expect to get a bird’s eye view at Vlamingh Lookout and walk around the island’s various lakes.
The route also takes you through the Pink Lake of the same name on the way back to the city center.
The perfect day trip from Perth, Parakeet Bay is ideal for families or those looking for a quiet day at the beach, close to shallow, well-protected waters full of friendly marine life
Swimmers find themselves in the company of rays and schools of rainbowfish, among several other harmless ocean creatures
Adventurers can hop on three possible ferries from Perth, departing from North Fremantle (Rous Head), Fremantle (Victoria Quay) and Hillary’s Boat Harbor in the north of Perth with trips ranging from 25 minutes to 90 minutes.
It is also possible to reach Rottnest Island via private boat, helicopter or seaplane.
Once on the island, travelers can take the Quokka Coaches Island Explorer and get off at stop 18, then walk the 400 meters to the beach.
Parakeet Bay is close to the town’s main hub, and many opt for the scenic option and cycle the 12 minutes from the Thomson Bay settlement.
Thousands have shared their love for the open water and diamond sand of the beach.
“I love Parakeet Bay, I go there every time I’m in Perth,” said one. ‘Very quiet and peaceful.’
“Beautiful beach and it’s lovely to lie in the sand and read,” another added. ‘My husband likes to swim there with our children.’
A third said: ‘Wow, I have to add this to my bucket list.’