Just a short ferry trip from Perth is Rottnest Island fronted by the crystal clear Indian Ocean. Surfing, swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling and fishing are just some of the activities here. This is also the home and sanctuary of abundant wildlife, including a friendly marsupial, the Quokka. No cars are permitted on the island but there is a bus/train service available. Bicycles can be hired to make it easier to travel about and this is the best way to explore the Island. Rottnest is Perth's favourite holiday island, and can be reached by ferry from Perth, Fremantle and Hillarys making it an enjoyable day trip. The island, colloquially abbreviated to 'Rotto' is 11kms long and less than half wide. It has five salt lakes and enjoys warmer winters and cooler summers than in Perth. It is home to magnificent coral reefs which are on par with Queenslands Great Barrier Reef. Limestone caves, crystal clear waters filled with Marine life, and white sandy beaches are just part of the experience of Rottnest. Volunteer guides run daily walking tours and bicycle tours are held every Sunday. Full of history a trip to this island would not be complete without seeing the Historic sites such as the museum, former colonial buildings, World War II coastal defence guns, a restored railway and the lighthouse. Daily Ferries leave from Barrack St Jetty to Rottnest, a short walk from Sullivans Hotel along the Swan River Foreshore.