Samphire Rottnest: Barefoot luxury on WA's quokka island

It's been a long time coming. Others had tried, but it was Western Australian hospitality giants, The Prendiville Group that finally triumphed in opening a luxury resort overlooking the turquoise waters and bobbing boats at Rottnest Island/Wadjemup. With this much anticipation, and the fact international travel is on hold, Samphire Rottnest has been the fully booked out overseas destination for cashed up Perthites since opening late last year.

The tagline? Barefoot luxury. The look? Muted natural tones in a palette of sand, sea and native flora against pale timbers. Christou Design Group was tasked with the build with a remit to tread lightly, after all, Rotto is a protected nature reserve. There's a large protected internal terrace sheltered from wind and sand, and in the centre are two pools shaped to emulate the island's salt lakes. Endemic Tuart trees have been maintained and framed by the buildings.

When not lounging poolside, guests can expect to sip cocktails overlooking Thomson Bay, with the sand between their toes at the Beach Club or retreat to one of the 80 breezy rooms, the best being the Beachfront Signature Suites with a freestanding bath, a private courtyard with rainshower, and front-row views of the Indian Ocean.

A definite highlight is beachside dining at Lontara. Chef Will Meyrick has taken up residence and brought his extensive experience in crafting South East Asian dishes to the island.

Highlights include the Prawn and Pomelo Salad and the slowly cooked Gai Galai. The service, and friendly quokka welcoming committee helped too.

Rooms from $400. See samphirerottnest.com.au

The writer stayed as a guest of Tourism Western Australia.