Tucked just behind the bus stops at Thomsons Bay, Rottnest Island Mini Golf is a brilliant spot for some wholesome, screen‑free family fun. Part of Rottnest Island Movies and Mini Golf, the 18‑hole course is set among coastal greenery and offers a relaxed, holiday vibe that suits all ages. It’s an easy activity to slot into your day between beach visits and bike rides, and a great way to burn off some energy.
On arrival, head to the front counter where each player is given a putter and ball. Kids will love choosing their ball colour and lining up at the first tee. The course is played in sequence, so it’s simple to follow along, even with younger children.
The first few holes are gentle and straightforward, which is ideal for helping little ones get the hang of the game. As you move around the course, the challenge steps up. Some holes require a bit of strategic thinking about angles, while others test how well you can judge power to avoid ramps, traps, and sneaky side rails. Older kids and adults can really get into the competitive spirit, trying to score a hole‑in‑one, while smaller children will simply enjoy giving it a go and celebrating every successful putt.
One of the handy features of Rottnest Island Mini Golf is the ball return at the 18th hole. Once you sink your final putt, the ball disappears into the mechanism and is automatically returned to the clubhouse, so there’s no need to go searching around for runaway balls. You simply hand your putters back at the counter and you’re done. It’s all very straightforward, which is ideal when you’re juggling excited (or tired!) kids at the end of the day.
Mini golf is a fantastic option if the weather on Rottnest turns a bit wild. If storms or strong winds keep you off the beach, playing a round is a great way to get the kids out of the chalet and moving. Families often turn it into a holiday ritual – a must‑do activity each time they visit the island. It naturally encourages a bit of light‑hearted rivalry, with kids determined to beat mum or dad and plenty of laughter when someone completely misjudges a shot.
Beyond the mini golf, Rottnest Island Movies and Mini Golf also houses a small games arcade, which is perfect if you have children who love arcade-style fun. The system is similar to Timezone: you load up a games card with credit and tap to play. As you play, you earn tickets that can be redeemed for prizes, which adds an extra layer of excitement for kids keen to collect and trade in their tickets at the counter. It’s a good option for an evening activity or a post‑dinner treat, but worth keeping in mind if your child becomes overstimulated in busy, noisy environments.
If you’d like to wind down at the end of a big island day, the same complex also includes a cosy movie theatre set in a heritage‑listed picture hall. This intimate cinema shows a mix of current films and beloved classics, with an upcoming movie list available via the Rottnest Island Movies and Mini Golf website.
Inside, you’ll find a concessions stand stocked with classic movie snacks and drinks, so you can grab popcorn, treats, and refreshments to enjoy while you watch. It’s an especially lovely option on cooler evenings or when you want a quieter activity after a full day of swimming and cycling.
Overall, Rottnest Island Mini Golf is a great-value, easygoing activity that suits a wide range of ages and abilities. The upgraded course is fun and accessible, the location is convenient, and with the added bonus of a games arcade and a charming little cinema on-site, it’s a genuine entertainment hub on the island. Whether you’re starting a new family tradition or keeping up an old one, a round of mini golf here is a memorable way to spend time together on your Rottnest holiday.
Rottnest Island Movies and Mini Golf
Address: 1 Brand Way, Rottnest Island, WA 6161 (behind the bus stops)
Opening hours (Mini Golf): 9:00am – 4:00pm, seven days a week
Opening hours (Movie Theatre): 5:45pm – 9:00pm on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday; open Sundays on long weekends only
Official website: Rottnest Island Movies and Mini Golf
Find more things to do on Rottnest with kids.
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Holly Clark is mum of one, a self-confessed coffee addict and a baker of sweet treats. She studied Professional Writing and Editing, is a published author, and currently works in customer service when she’s not wrangling kids.
