The beautiful undiscovered island with 'world's happiest animals' and white-sand beaches

This 19-square-mile off the coast of Perth in Western used to be connected to the mainland and is known for its quokkas, beautiful white sand beaches, rock pools, and bays with crystal-clear waters. Over 10,000 adorable quokkas, marsupials which can't be found anywhere else in the world, live on Rottnest Island. Known as the 'world's happiest animal', these are friendly creatures that aren't afraid of humans.

With over 63 and 20 bays to explore with turquoise waters, swimmers will be able to see over 400 different types of fish, including reef fish and corals of all colours. The most popular beaches are The Basin, Pinky Beach, and Little Salmon Bay, which are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving.

You might also be able to spot dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, humpback whales and even manta rays.

The island is car-free and a protected natural reserve with popular activities being cycling, paddleboarding, and while many go just for the day from Perth via ferry, there are also accommodations available to stay in.

Stretching over 27 miles, the Wadjemup Bidi is a network of scenic walking trails that weave through Rottnest's coastline, lakes, cliffs, and historic landmarks.

There are 13 known shipwrecks around the island with some lying in waters shallow enough to explore while snorkeling with the most well-known is the Uribes wreck, located at Henrietta Rocks.

Also known as Wadjemup, the island has a complex history that goes back thousands of years.

Once connected to the mainland, the island was used by the Whadjuk Noongar people for ceremonial gatherings and cultural practices but when sea levels rose around 7,000 years ago, it became isolated.

European explorers first came to the island in the 17th century and from about 1838 to 1931, it was a prison and forced labour camp for Aboriginal men and during both World Wars, it was used as an internment camp and became part of Australia's coastal defence system.

Housed in the historic Old Mill and Hay Store, the Wadjemup Museum shows artefacts that are more than 40,000 years old and honours the island's Aboriginal heritage.

An Aboriginal-led project, called the Wadjemup Project, is reportedly working to educate visitors about the island's history and promote reconciliation through truth-telling, cultural ceremonies, and educational activities.