Rockingham

Just forty minutes south of Perth, Rockingham is a sun-drenched coastal city that offers a more relaxed alternative to the capital. With its calm, clear waters, long stretches of sandy beach, and a surprising array of marine life, this is a place where you can swim with wild dolphins one morning and sip a flat white at a beachside café the next. The laid-back atmosphere and easy access to the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park make it a favourite for families and nature lovers alike.

Highlights & What to See

• Swim with wild dolphins – Rockingham is one of the few places in the world where you can snorkel alongside wild bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. Eco-cruises depart daily from the jetty.
• Shoalwater Islands Marine Park – This protected marine sanctuary is home to sea lions, penguins, and pelicans. Take a kayak tour or a glass-bottom boat to explore the islands without disturbing the wildlife.
• Penguin Island – A 30-minute ferry ride takes you to this tiny island, where you can see a colony of little penguins in their natural environment. The white-sand beaches and walking trails are perfect for a half-day escape.
• Point Peron – This rocky headland offers panoramic views over the ocean and the islands. It’s a great spot for a coastal walk, snorkelling, or a picnic with a view.
• Rockingham Beach Foreshore – The main beach is fringed by Norfolk pines and has a gentle slope, making it ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. The nearby esplanade is lined with cafés and restaurants.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that two to three days is perfect to experience Rockingham’s highlights without feeling rushed. Spend your first day on a dolphin swim or marine park tour, then devote a second day to exploring Penguin Island and Point Peron. If you have a third day, you can relax on the beach or take a side trip to nearby Mandurah. The city is compact enough that you can easily cover the main attractions in a long weekend, but it also works well as a stopover on a longer self-drive along the Coral Coast.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Perth – Just 40 minutes north, the state capital offers world-class museums, the Kings Park botanic gardens, and the vibrant Elizabeth Quay precinct.
• Mandurah – A 20-minute drive south, this canal city is famous for its dolphin cruises, seafood restaurants, and the sprawling Mandurah Estuary.
• Rottnest Island – A ferry from Rockingham takes you directly to this car-free island, home to the adorable quokka and some of the best beaches in Western Australia.
• Fremantle – Half an hour north, this historic port city has a lively market, Victorian architecture, and a thriving craft-beer scene.
• Margaret River – About 2.5 hours south, this world-renowned wine region offers premium cellar doors, surf breaks, and ancient forests.

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