If you’re searching for the perfect destination where family fun meets adventure, look no further than Rockingham. Nestled in the heart of Western Australia, this coastal gem is brimming with activities that promise to delight both the young and the young-at-heart. From sun-soaked beaches to exhilarating wildlife encounters, here’s how to make the most of your family day out in Rockingham.Image © Tourism Western AustraliaDive into the Charm of Rockingham BeachRockingham Beach is not just a spot on the map; it’s a vibrant playground where families can create unforgettable memories. Picture this: the sun kissing your skin, the gentle lapping of waves, and the joyful shrieks of children as they build sandcastles and splash around. With its family-friendly swimming zones and a playground that seems to have been designed by kids for kids, Rockingham Beach is the ultimate canvas for a perfect day out. Don’t forget to pack a picnic to enjoy with stunning ocean views!Set Sail for Adventure on Penguin IslandJust a breezy ferry ride away, Penguin Island is like stepping into a wildlife wonderland. Imagine observing the adorable Little Penguins in their natural habitat, as they waddle and play in the surf. The island is not only home to these charming creatures but also offers scenic walking trails and pristine beaches. Join a guided tour to learn fascinating tidbits about the island’s ecosystem and get up close with its feathered residents. It’s a slice of paradise that’s as educational as it is enchanting.Embrace the Wild Side with Rockingham Wild EncountersFor those who crave a touch of thrill and a dash of discovery, Rockingham Wild Encounters is your gateway to the ocean’s wonders. Picture your family aboard a boat, cruising through the sparkling waters in search of dolphins. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a dip and swim with these playful marine mammals. The excitement doesn’t stop there—wildlife tours offer glimpses of various sea creatures in their natural habitat, making for an exhilarating experience that will have everyone talking.

When it comes to Rockingham, a stunning coastal town in Western Australia, most travellers flock to the beaches and marine wildlife experiences. However, to truly enjoy the charm of this region, staying at the right accommodation can make all the difference. Whether you're looking for a nature-filled escape, beachside bliss, or a tranquil retreat by the lake, Rockingham offers a variety of underrated yet incredible stays. Let's explore three of the best places to stay in and around Rockingham: Discovery Parks – Coogee Beach, Tasman Holiday Parks – Serpentine Falls, and Golden Ponds.1. Discovery Parks – Coogee BeachImage © Tourism Western AustraliaFor those who love the beach, there’s no better place to stay near Rockingham than Discovery Parks – Coogee Beach. Located just a stone’s throw from the sparkling waters of Coogee Beach, this holiday park offers the perfect blend of coastal living and convenient access to Rockingham’s attractions.Why Stay Here?Discovery Parks – Coogee Beach is ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers who want to be close to the ocean while enjoying modern comforts. The park offers a range of accommodation options, from self-contained cabins with full amenities to powered camping sites for a more back-to-nature experience. Whether you’re looking to wake up to the sound of the waves or explore the nearby Coogee Maritime Trail, this spot ticks all the boxes.Attractions Nearby:Coogee Beach: Just steps away, this beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a peaceful walk along the shore.Coogee Maritime Trail: An underwater trail where snorkelers and divers can explore submerged art and marine life.Rockingham Dolphin Swim Tours: A short drive away, offering the chance to swim with wild dolphins.Tip for Travelers:Book one of the beachfront cabins for stunning ocean views and easy beach access. These cabins provide a cosy, luxurious experience with the added bonus of hearing the waves at night.

Rockingham is a prime destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities in its crystal-clear waters and sheltered bays. Whether you’re an experienced windsurfer or a beginner looking to try stand-up paddleboarding, Rockingham’s calm conditions and stunning coastal scenery provide the perfect backdrop for aquatic adventures. Here's a guide to the best water sports in Rockingham, from windsurfing and kitesurfing to kayaking and paddleboarding.Image © Tourism Western Australia1. Windsurfing at Safety BayBest for: Thrill-seekers and wind sports enthusiastsSafety Bay, located just south of Rockingham, is famous for its windsurfing conditions, attracting both beginners and experienced windsurfers from around the world. With consistent winds and smooth, shallow waters, the bay is ideal for practicing and improving your skills. The flat water and wide-open space make it a favorite spot for freestyle windsurfers.Safety Bay offers several windsurfing schools where beginners can take lessons and rent equipment. The steady winds, particularly during the summer months, provide perfect conditions for those looking to enjoy the thrill of catching the breeze and skimming across the water.

Rockingham, with its beautiful coastline and proximity to nature reserves, offers several excellent camping spots for those looking to immerse themselves in the outdoors. Whether you prefer a beachside campsite with ocean views or a tranquil spot in the bush, the areas around Rockingham provide a variety of options for an overnight stay. Here’s a guide to the best camping spots near Rockingham, perfect for both families and solo adventurers.Image © Frances Andrijich1. Cape Peron (Point Peron) CampgroundDistance from Rockingham: 10 km / 15-minute driveBest for: Beachside camping, coastal walks, and historyCape Peron (Point Peron) Campground is a popular choice for campers seeking a coastal experience. Located within Cape Peron Reserve, this campsite offers easy access to stunning beaches, rocky cliffs, and scenic walking trails. The campground itself is basic, with limited facilities, but its proximity to the coast makes it a favorite for beach lovers and those interested in Rockingham’s military history.During your stay, you can explore the World War II gun emplacements, snorkel in the clear waters around Point Peron, or simply relax on the beach. The sunsets here are spectacular, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful overnight stay.

Rockingham, located just south of Perth, boasts a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years, from its early Indigenous heritage to its development as a bustling coastal town. Today, visitors can explore the area's historic landmarks, cultural sites, and stories that reflect its fascinating past. Here's a guide to Rockingham's must-visit sites for history and heritage enthusiasts.Image © Tourism Western Australia1. Rockingham MuseumBest for: Learning about Rockingham’s maritime and colonial historyRockingham Museum is a great starting point for anyone interested in the area’s history. Located in a heritage building in the town center, the museum offers exhibits that highlight Rockingham’s maritime past, early settlement history, and development into the thriving community it is today.The museum’s collection includes photographs, artifacts, and displays that cover everything from early whaling and shipping to agriculture and World War II stories. It’s a family-friendly museum where visitors can gain insights into the town’s heritage, industries, and local culture.

Rockingham is not only a destination in its own right but also a gateway to some of Western Australia’s most stunning natural attractions and vibrant towns. Whether you’re looking for coastal adventures, unique wildlife encounters, or historical experiences, there are plenty of fantastic day trip options within easy reach of Rockingham. Here’s a guide to the best day trips from Rockingham, offering a variety of activities and experiences for all types of travelers.1. MandurahDistance from Rockingham: 35 km / 30-minute driveBest for: Dolphin cruises, estuary exploration, and seafoodLocated just a short drive south of Rockingham, Mandurah is a popular coastal city known for its picturesque estuaries and canals, vibrant wildlife, and relaxed atmosphere. One of the highlights of visiting Mandurah is the opportunity to take a dolphin cruise through the Peel Inlet and Harvey Estuary, where you can see bottlenose dolphins swimming and playing in their natural habitat.The city's waterfront offers a range of dining options, from fresh seafood restaurants to casual cafés with scenic views. Mandurah is also home to beautiful beaches and the Mandurah Ocean Marina, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll or try your hand at fishing.Image © Tourism Western Australia

Rockingham, located just 45 minutes south of Perth, is a haven for wildlife lovers, offering numerous opportunities to get up close with a variety of marine animals, birds, and more. With its rich biodiversity, the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is the heart of Rockingham’s wildlife encounters, where visitors can interact with penguins, sea lions, dolphins, and other incredible species in their natural habitat. Here’s a guide to the best wildlife encounters in Rockingham, from playful sea lions to penguins waddling along the shore.1. Penguins on Penguin IslandBest for: Seeing little penguins in their natural habitatPenguin Island, part of the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, is home to the largest colony of little penguins in Western Australia. These adorable creatures, also known as fairy penguins, are the smallest species of penguins in the world. Penguin Island is one of the few places where visitors can observe these penguins both in the wild and during feeding sessions at the island’s Discovery Centre.The island’s penguins are often spotted swimming near the shore or resting in their burrows. The Penguin Island Discovery Centre offers daily feeding presentations, where visitors can watch rescued penguins up close while learning about their behavior and conservation efforts. Outside the centre, you can explore the island's walking trails and beaches, keeping an eye out for wild penguins.Image © Tourism Western Australia

Rockingham, located just south of Perth, offers a variety of excellent fishing spots along its beautiful coastline, sheltered bays, and nearby islands. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking for a relaxing day by the water, Rockingham has something to offer, from beach fishing and jetty casting to deep-sea adventures. Here’s a guide to the top fishing spots in Rockingham for anglers of all levels.Image © Tourism Western Australia1. Palm Beach JettyBest for: Family-friendly fishing, whiting, herring, and squidPalm Beach Jetty is one of Rockingham’s most popular and accessible fishing spots, perfect for families and beginners. The jetty extends into Cockburn Sound, providing plenty of room for anglers to cast their lines and target species such as whiting, herring, tailor, and even squid during the right season.The calm waters and proximity to the shore make Palm Beach Jetty ideal for both day and night fishing. Families will appreciate the nearby amenities, such as shaded picnic areas and BBQ facilities, making it a great spot for a full day of fishing and relaxation.

Rockingham is not only known for its stunning beaches and outdoor adventures but also for its vibrant café scene, offering delicious food and drinks paired with breathtaking ocean views. Whether you’re looking for a cosy breakfast spot, a casual lunch with the family, or just a great cup of coffee while taking in the coastal beauty, Rockingham has plenty to offer. Here’s a guide to the best cafes in Rockingham with spectacular ocean views.Image © Tourism Western Australia1. Ostro EateryLocation: 11A Rockingham Beach Rd, Rockingham WA 6168Best for: Breakfast, brunch, and casual diningOstro Eatery is a favourite among locals and visitors for its laid-back atmosphere, fresh food, and panoramic views of Rockingham Beach. Situated right on the foreshore, the café’s large outdoor seating area allows diners to enjoy the ocean breeze and views while indulging in a delicious menu focused on local produce and modern Australian cuisine.Their breakfast menu is a highlight, with options like smashed avocado, eggs benedict, and house-made granola. For lunch, the menu includes hearty salads, gourmet burgers, and seafood dishes. The café also serves excellent coffee, making it a perfect stop to start your day or grab a midday pick-me-up.

Rockingham, just south of Perth, is a fantastic destination for scuba diving enthusiasts, offering a rich and diverse underwater environment within the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. With shipwrecks, reefs, and an abundance of marine life, Rockingham provides both beginners and experienced divers with memorable diving experiences. Here’s a guide to scuba diving in Rockingham, including top dive sites and what to expect while exploring the underwater world.Image © Tourism Western Australia1. Diving in Shoalwater Islands Marine ParkThe Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is one of Western Australia’s most biodiverse marine environments, making it a popular location for diving. The park is home to seagrass meadows, rocky reefs, limestone caves, and an array of marine species, from playful Australian sea lions to colourful reef fish.Key Features:Calm, protected waters ideal for divingAbundant marine life, including dolphins, sea lions, rays, and fishDiverse underwater landscapes, from reefs to wrecksThe marine park's waters are generally calm, making it a safe diving environment for beginners while offering plenty of depth and variety for more advanced divers. Some of the most popular dive sites within the park are outlined below.

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. KayakingBest for: Exploring marine life, island hopping, and tranquil paddlingKayaking 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 AustraliaTop 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.

Rockingham, located just 45 minutes south of Perth, is renowned for its stunning coastline and pristine beaches. Whether you’re looking for a quiet, secluded spot to relax or a lively beach with activities for the whole family, Rockingham has it all. From popular shores with excellent amenities to hidden gems perfect for a peaceful retreat, here’s a guide to Rockingham’s best beaches.Image © Tourism Western Australia1. Rockingham BeachBest for: Families, swimming, and picnickingRockingham Beach is the most popular and centrally located beach in the area, making it ideal for families and those looking for easy access to amenities. The beach features calm, shallow waters, making it safe for children to swim and play. The recently upgraded Rockingham Foreshore has beautiful green spaces, playgrounds, BBQ facilities, and a variety of cafes and restaurants, making it perfect for a full day of beachside fun.The beach is also a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. With lifeguards patrolling during peak season, it’s a safe and enjoyable spot for the whole family.

Swimming with dolphins in Rockingham, Western Australia, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to encounter these intelligent and playful creatures in their natural habitat. Situated just 45 minutes south of Perth, Rockingham is famous for its dolphin population, and several reputable operators offer tours that give visitors the chance to swim alongside these wild animals. Here’s everything you need to know about how to book and what to expect during your dolphin swim adventure in Rockingham.Image © Tourism Western AustraliaHow to Book Your Dolphin SwimBooking a dolphin swim tour in Rockingham is simple, and it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer months from November to April). Here are the main steps to book your tour:1. Choose a Tour OperatorRockingham has several reputable tour companies that offer dolphin swim experiences. One of the most popular operators is Rockingham Wild Encounters, which has been operating dolphin tours for many years and is known for its focus on responsible wildlife interaction.2. Book Online or In-PersonYou can book your dolphin swim online through the operator’s website or by visiting the tour office in Rockingham. Booking online is often the easiest option, as it allows you to secure your spot and receive confirmation via email.