How to get the ultimate ethical selfie with a quokka

By Lauren Thomas
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The do’s and don’ts of scoring that photo with Rottnest Island’s star attraction.

If Rottnest Island isn’t already part of your WA travel plans, lock it in now and get your selfie stick at the ready: you’re about to witness the cutest marsupial in town, the ever-so-sweet and camera-ready quokka (or kwoka in Noongar).

Often described as the ‘happiest animal in the world,’ these adorable creatures are endemic to Western Australia and somewhat famous—there are around 10,000 quokkas that live on Rottnest Island. 

If you haven’t heard of them, first of all, how’s that rock you’ve been living under? And secondly, you’re in for a treat. 

Quokka selfie

Capture the joy of a quokka while respecting their safety and comfort. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

The quokka selfie phenomenon

About 650,000 visitors head to Rottnest each year to bask in the sunshine and explore this island playground. However, thousands of tourists also come for the chance to post ‘selfies’ on social media with the friendly creature, including some famous faces—Hugh Jackman, Roger Federer and Margot Robbie, anyone?

Quokka selfie

Smile with the happiest animal on Earth. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Expert tips for quokka encounters

While most quokkas love the attention and don’t mind photobombing your ultimate Instagram-worthy shot, there are a few expert tips and tricks that can come in handy. So to help you maximise your time (and selfie) with the quokkas, we enlisted the help of an expert.

Shane Kearney, acting general manager at the Rottnest Island Authority of Environment, Heritage and Parks has shared his tips and tricks on how to get the ultimate experience with their resident quokkas in an ethical and sustainable manner.

“Quokkas are fairly trusting, [and if you are] patient they will happily come to you," he says. “They are naturally nocturnal, so you’ll generally find them in the morning and early evening year-round, especially around the settlement precinct."

Quokka selfie

Quokkas are nocturnal animals that primarily sleep during the day in dense vegetation. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

The do’s and don’ts of quokka photography

As for capturing the perfect photo? “[Be sure] to use a selfie stick to maintain a respectful distance for both human and animal safety," he continues. “If you happen upon one that is camera shy, do not attempt to feed them with food or water. It changes their behaviour and [food that is not in their natural diet] can potentially make them ill." Kearney also stresses the importance of disposing of your rubbish and riding your bike with care around the island.

Quokka selfie

Respect nature while capturing these lovely moments. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Final advice for the ultimate quokka experience

But his overall recommendations for ensuring the ultimate experience? “Get your smile and camera ready, enjoy the moment and [let the quokkas] come to you."

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First look: The all-new Lodge at Wadjemup revealed

    By Emily Murphy
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    A new era of island luxury has arrived on Rottnest.

    Big news for fans of Rottnest Island: The Lodge Wadjemup has just unveiled 46 brand-new Poolhouse rooms and a stunning guest pool, marking the next chapter in this ambitious island accommodation project.

    The Lodge Wadjemup Poolhouse room

    Soak up the magic of Rottnest in The Lodge Wadjemup’s Poolhouse room. (Image: Shot by Thom)

    The new rooms feature high ceilings, spacious layouts and a choice of pool, lake or island views – creating the perfect base for couples, families or groups keen to soak up the magic of Rottnest.

    This latest reveal builds on the success of the refurbished 63 Courtyard and Lake rooms that opened in January 2025, bringing the total number of rooms to 109. It’s a much-needed boost for the island’s limited accommodation options, and a sign that Rottnest is ready to take its place as a world-class holiday destination.

    The Lodge Wadjemup Poolhouse room bathroom

    Relax in the bath after a big day by the pool. (Image: Shot by Thom)

    In fact, the global spotlight is already on this all-Aussie project. Just three months after opening its doors, The Lodge Wadjemup was named on TIME’s ‘World’s Greatest Places 2025’ list – a huge achievement for the team behind the development.

    The Lodge Wadjemup poolside

    Spend hours poolside at The Lodge Wadjemup. (Image: Shot by Thom)

    It’s a project that blends heritage and modernity – celebrating the island’s history while offering contemporary comforts like onsite restaurants, luxe rooms and now, the sparkling new pool. And the timing couldn’t be better. With the new Poolhouse rooms open, there’s never been a better reason to book a trip to Rottnest and experience this new side of Wadjemup.

    The Lodge Wadjemup Sunsets food dishes poolside

    Enjoy gourmet dishes in between swims. (Image: Shot by Thom)

    For those planning a visit, The Lodge Wadjemup’s vibe is all about laid-back luxury: think casual coastal elegance, friendly service and a setting that feels worlds away – yet just a short ferry ride from Perth. It’s the kind of place where you can start your day with a coffee by the pool, spend hours exploring the island’s beaches and wildlife, then return for sunset drinks overlooking the lake.

    Whether you’re watching the sun dip over the water, spotting a quokka or two or unwinding in the guest pool, The Lodge Wadjemup is redefining what it means to stay on Rotto.

    The Lodge Wadjemup poolside

    The Lodge Wadjemup is redefining what it means to stay on Rotto. (Image: Shot by Thom)

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