Rockingham, located just south of Perth, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure on the water and along the coast. With its stunning beaches, protected marine parks, and abundant wildlife, Rockingham offers a variety of exciting outdoor activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and more. Whether you're looking to paddle alongside dolphins, explore vibrant coral reefs, or get your adrenaline pumping with kite surfing, Rockingham has something for every adventurer. Here's a guide to the best outdoor adventures in Rockingham.
1. Kayaking
Best for: Exploring marine life, island hopping, and tranquil paddling
Kayaking in Rockingham is an unforgettable way to explore the pristine coastline and the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds. You can rent a kayak or join a guided tour to paddle through the calm, clear waters and explore nearby islands.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Top Kayaking Spots:
- Shoalwater Bay: Perfect for beginners and experienced kayakers, Shoalwater Bay’s calm waters allow you to paddle around the small islands in the marine park. Along the way, you may spot dolphins and sea lions playing in the water.
- Penguin Island: One of the most popular kayaking destinations in Rockingham, Penguin Island is just a short paddle from the mainland. Once on the island, you can explore the beaches, enjoy a picnic, or see the colony of little penguins that call the island home.
- Seal Island: Another great spot within Shoalwater Bay, Seal Island offers the chance to see Australian sea lions up close. You can paddle around the island or stop on the shore to observe the wildlife.
What to Expect: Rentals and guided kayak tours are available at Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. Many tours include snorkeling stops and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Tip: Bring a waterproof camera to capture the incredible wildlife and coastal views during your paddle.
2. Snorkeling
Best for: Exploring vibrant marine life, coral reefs, and underwater landscapes
Snorkeling in Rockingham is a fantastic way to experience the underwater beauty of Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. With its clear, shallow waters and rich biodiversity, Rockingham offers some of the best snorkeling spots in Western Australia, where you can encounter a wide range of marine life, from fish and stingrays to coral reefs.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Top Snorkeling Spots:
- Point Peron: A popular snorkeling destination, Point Peron features stunning rocky reefs, limestone formations, and a variety of marine species. The underwater caves and ledges offer excellent opportunities to explore while spotting colorful fish and coral formations.
- Penguin Island: The waters around Penguin Island are ideal for snorkeling, with sheltered bays and rocky reefs teeming with marine life. While snorkeling, you may see little penguins, stingrays, and even dolphins.
- Shoalwater Bay: Snorkeling in the bay itself offers a tranquil experience, where you can swim among fish, seaweed meadows, and seagrass beds.
What to Expect: You can bring your own gear or rent snorkeling equipment from local providers. Guided snorkeling tours are also available, which often combine kayaking or wildlife encounters.
Tip: The best time to snorkel is during calm weather and in the morning when visibility is at its peak.
3. Dolphin Swim Tours
Best for: Swimming with wild dolphins in their natural habitat
One of the most memorable outdoor adventures in Rockingham is swimming with wild dolphins. Several tour operators offer dolphin swim tours, allowing you to encounter these intelligent creatures up close in their natural habitat. The tours typically start with a boat ride out into Rockingham’s coastal waters, where you’ll find pods of dolphins swimming and playing.
Once the dolphins are spotted, you’ll be guided into the water for a safe and respectful interaction with the dolphins. The experience is entirely on the dolphins’ terms, as they are wild and not fed or trained.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
What to Expect:
- A guided boat ride and safety briefing
- Snorkeling gear, wetsuits, and flotation devices provided
- Opportunities to swim near wild dolphins as they swim past or play around you
Tip: Book your dolphin swim in advance, especially during the peak season (September to April), to ensure availability.
4. Kite Surfing and Windsurfing
Best for: Thrill-seekers and water sports enthusiasts
For adrenaline junkies, kite surfing and windsurfing are hugely popular activities in Rockingham, particularly at Safety Bay, which is renowned for its consistent winds and wide, shallow waters. Both beginners and experienced riders will find ideal conditions for riding the waves, with the added bonus of stunning coastal views.
Image © Travis Hayto
Top Kite Surfing Spots:
- Safety Bay: Known for its flat, calm waters and reliable winds, Safety Bay is the go-to spot for kite surfing in Rockingham. With plenty of space, it’s perfect for learning the sport or honing your skills.
- Penguin Island: The waters near Penguin Island are also popular for kite surfing and windsurfing, with smooth conditions and beautiful surroundings.
What to Expect: Kite surfing and windsurfing lessons are available for beginners, and equipment rentals are offered at Safety Bay. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, the thrill of catching the wind and riding the waves is unbeatable.
Tip: If you’re new to kite surfing or windsurfing, consider taking a lesson to get started in a safe and controlled environment.
5. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Best for: Beginners, families, and those seeking a relaxing water activity
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a great way to explore the calm, protected waters of Rockingham at your own pace. SUP is perfect for beginners and families, as it requires minimal equipment and is easy to learn. The flat waters of Shoalwater Bay provide an ideal environment for paddling while enjoying the scenic views of nearby islands and wildlife.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Top SUP Spots:
- Shoalwater Bay: The calm, shallow waters of Shoalwater Bay are ideal for stand-up paddleboarding. You can paddle along the coastline, explore hidden coves, or paddle out to Penguin Island or Seal Island.
- Rockingham Beach: Another excellent spot for SUP, Rockingham Beach offers clear waters and plenty of space to paddle, making it a perfect spot for beginners.
What to Expect: You can rent paddleboards from local water sports shops or join guided SUP tours that take you to the best spots in the area.
Tip: Paddle in the early morning or late afternoon for the most peaceful conditions and avoid the midday winds.
6. Fishing and Boating
Best for: Fishing enthusiasts and boat lovers
Rockingham’s coastal waters are teeming with fish, making it a fantastic destination for both recreational and serious anglers. Whether you’re casting a line from the Palm Beach Jetty or heading out on a fishing charter, you’ll find plenty of fishing opportunities along the coast. Common species include snapper, whiting, and herring.
If you prefer to explore the waters by boat, you can rent small boats or join a boating tour to explore nearby islands and fishing spots.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Top Fishing Spots:
- Palm Beach Jetty: A popular spot for locals and visitors, the Palm Beach Jetty is a great place for shore fishing, with plenty of species to catch.
- Shoalwater Bay: Fishing within the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is another option, where you can cast off from your boat or kayak and reel in a variety of fish.
What to Expect: Fishing charters are available for those looking to venture further out to sea, and boat rentals can be arranged for a day of exploring and fishing.
Tip: Be mindful of fishing regulations in the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, as some areas are protected to preserve marine life.
7. Coastal Walking Trails
Best for: Hikers, nature lovers, and families
If you prefer to stay on land but still want to enjoy Rockingham’s natural beauty, there are several scenic walking trails along the coast. These trails offer stunning views of the ocean, beaches, and nearby islands, as well as opportunities to spot wildlife such as dolphins, sea lions, and birds.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Top Walking Trails:
- Point Peron Coastal Trail: This trail takes you along the rugged cliffs of Point Peron, offering panoramic views of the coastline and access to hidden beaches and rocky outcrops. It’s a great trail for families, with plenty of places to stop for a picnic or swim.
- Shoalwater Islands Marine Park Walk: This coastal walk offers spectacular views of Penguin Island and Seal Island. Along the way, you’ll find beautiful beaches and lookouts where you can take in the natural beauty of the marine park.
Tip: Pack plenty of water and sunscreen, especially during the warmer months, and take time to explore the beaches and rock pools along the way.
Final Thoughts
From kayaking with dolphins to exploring underwater reefs through snorkeling, Rockingham offers a diverse range of outdoor adventures for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing paddle in calm waters or an adrenaline-pumping day of kite surfing, Rockingham’s coastline is the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts.