The Basin is a popular ocean swimming location situated at the northeast of Rottnest Island (Wadjemup), Western Australia, between Pinky Beach and Longreach Bay. It is a natural, sheltered bay protected by limestone reefs, known for its calm, clear waters and white sandy beach.
Geography
The Basin is classified as a bay on the northeastern side of Rottnest Island, approximately 10 minutes' walk or a short bicycle ride from the main settlement at Thomson Bay. It has a maximum length of 90 metres (300 ft), a maximum width of 350 metres (1,150 ft), a surface area of 2.3 hectares (5.7 acres), and a shoreline length of 468 metres (1,535 ft). The bay opens to the Indian Ocean and is sheltered on three sides by calcarenite (limestone) bluffs and reef systems, which typically result in calm swimming conditions.
Description
The Basin is widely regarded as a natural swimming pool. Its shallow, protected waters make it a popular destination for families with young children, as well as for snorkelling and scuba diving. The reef systems surrounding the bay support an abundance of marine life, including colourful fish and coral in shades of purple, pink, and brown. The area is also known for tidal pools along the intertidal platform.
The beach is approximately 200 metres long, backed by Norfolk Island pine trees, and features picnic areas, shelters, barbecues, outdoor showers, and toilet facilities. During peak season (November to January), Surf Life Saving WA conducts patrols on weekends and public holidays.
History and development
In 1976, John T. McMahon (1893–1989) wrote a well-known description of The Basin, praising it as a swimming location and noting that "sharks cannot enter" due to the protective reef.
Between November 2020 and November 2021, the Rottnest Island Authority undertook a significant redevelopment of The Basin, funded by the Australian Government and the State Government of Western Australia as part of a $17.2 million investment in national tourism infrastructure. Upgrades included new pathways, landscaping, decking, shade shelters, seating, barbecue facilities, improved lighting, new toilet and beach shower facilities, water and sewer connections, and erosion and drainage management.
Coordinates
31°59′19″S 115°32′10″E
