Meet the site
Fish Hook Bay sits at the West End of Rottnest, close to Cape Vlamingh and the boardwalk lookout. SeaLink describes it as a pristine, untouched location with turquoise waters and an extensive reef system, tropical fish and other marine species, and excellent visibility. It lies within the West End Demersal Sanctuary Zone, which protects bottom-dwelling species such as western rock lobster and dhufish.
The bay's limestone reef is cut into ledges, gutters and small caves, and the clear water that reaches the West End gives some of the best visibility of any shore site on the island. Fish life is good because of the sanctuary and the distance from the crowds; expect wrasse, buffalo bream, herring cale, sweep and dusky morwong, and possibly seals from the nearby colony.
This is a snorkel for calm days and for people willing to cycle the length of the island. The West End is fully exposed to the south-west, and the swell can wrap into the bay with little warning, so check conditions from the lookout before entering. It suits confident snorkellers, and on a flat day it is one of the most scenic swims on Rottnest.
Bring water and food: there are no shops at the West End, and the ride back into the sea breeze can take an hour.
The West End is the most exposed part of Rottnest and the only part of the island where shore snorkelling is regularly limited by Southern Ocean swell rather than wind, so plan West End snorkels around the swell forecast. The Rottnest Island Reserve bans spearguns and handspears across all island waters.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Fish Hook Bay is recorded as Shore/Rock Platform in Rottnest Island. The listed access is shore. Confirm the actual meeting point, route and permission to visit; a map pin does not establish any of these.
Topics flagged by the stored research
These are questions prompted by the existing notes, not a verified or complete hazard assessment.
- Water movement
- Ask how swell and local exposure affect the proposed entry, exit and route.
Historical access notes exist for this record, but have not been independently verified for current use. Request current directions from the operator or site manager rather than following an old entry description.
Questions, answered
Is Fish Hook Bay suitable for my certification?
The record lists Snorkel/Any. That does not establish suitability for every route or day. Share your training, recent experience and equipment needs with the operator and ask about the specific proposed dive.
Can I book Fish Hook Bay through YouDive?
YouDive is an independent research directory. Contact an operator directly to confirm whether it currently runs the trip, the inclusions and the booking terms.
What you might see
Western king wrasse, buffalo bream, herring cale, sweep, dusky morwong, western rock lobster (protected), seals nearby
Location
Small bay at the West End of Rottnest near Cape Vlamingh with turquoise water and an extensive reef system, in the West End Demersal Sanctuary Zone.
Facilities nearby
Cape Vlamingh boardwalk and bike parking; no water or shops at the West End - toilets limited; bring supplies.
Before you make plans
Conditions, access and operator schedules can change. This is a location guide, not a dive plan. Ask a local operator about current conditions and suitability for your training and experience.
Sources & further reading
sealink.com.aurottnestisland.comRecord updated 27 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.