Rockingham, a coastal city in Western Australia, is a haven for families looking to enjoy the great outdoors. From pristine beaches to scenic parks and exciting water activities, the area offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a local family or visiting for a holiday, Rockingham has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some fun outdoor activities that families can enjoy together.
One of Rockingham’s most famous attractions, Penguin Island, is a must-visit destination for families. Located just off the coast of Shoalwater Bay, this small island is home to a colony of the world’s smallest penguins, known as little penguins. Families can take a short ferry ride or, for the more adventurous, wade across the sandbar at low tide (with caution) to reach the island. Once there, you can explore walking trails, enjoy a picnic, or participate in a penguin feeding show at the Discovery Centre.
Tip: Pack your binoculars! Penguin Island is also great for birdwatching, with various species of seabirds calling it home.
Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is a marine lover’s dream. Families can embark on a guided kayaking tour or rent kayaks for a self-guided adventure. Paddle through crystal-clear waters, spot dolphins, seals, and seabirds, and enjoy the beautiful marine life. For those who love being underwater, snorkelling is a fantastic way to see vibrant fish, sea stars, and sometimes even seals.
This adventure is perfect for older kids and teens who are comfortable in the water. Many local tour operators offer equipment rentals and guided tours, making it easy to plan a day of fun.
If you’re after a more laid-back day, Rockingham Beach is a perfect choice. Known for its calm, shallow waters, it’s ideal for families with young children. The long stretch of sandy beach provides plenty of space for kids to build sandcastles, play beach cricket, or simply splash in the water. The beach’s proximity to cafes and picnic areas makes it a convenient spot for a family day out.
For families looking to be more active, the beach offers great swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the Rockingham Beach boardwalk, which offers scenic views of the coastline.
Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to catch a stunning sunset over the Indian Ocean.
If your family enjoys hiking and nature, Point Peron is a fantastic place to explore. Located on the northern side of Rockingham, Point Peron offers coastal trails with breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding islands. The walk is relatively easy, making it suitable for families with children of all ages. Along the way, you’ll discover hidden coves, limestone cliffs, and rock pools that kids will love to explore.
The area is also popular for fishing and snorkelling, so if your family enjoys these activities, be sure to bring your gear. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the lookout points, where you can relax and take in the stunning scenery.
For families with older children or teens looking for an adrenaline-filled experience, Safety Bay is a hotspot for kite surfing and windsurfing. The steady coastal winds and shallow waters create the perfect conditions for these exhilarating sports. While it might not be ideal for young children, many local schools offer lessons for beginners, making it a fun and challenging activity for teens and adventurous adults.
Even if you don’t want to participate, watching the colourful kites soaring through the sky is a spectacle in itself. Bring a picnic and enjoy the show from the shore while soaking up the coastal atmosphere.
Nestled along Rockingham Beach, Churchill Park is a family-friendly park that offers plenty of space for picnics and outdoor games. The park features BBQ facilities, shaded areas, and playgrounds, making it perfect for a day out with the kids. Families can enjoy a relaxing afternoon while the children play on the swings, slides, and climbing frames.
With the beach just a few steps away, it’s easy to combine a visit to Churchill Park with some beach time. On weekends, the park often hosts community events, markets, and outdoor performances, adding an extra layer of fun to your family outing.
Rockingham Wild Encounters offers unique wildlife experiences, including swimming with wild dolphins! This incredible opportunity allows families to get up close and personal with one of nature’s most playful creatures in their natural habitat. The tours are guided, and all equipment is provided, so even beginners can participate. For those who prefer to stay dry, wildlife cruises offer a chance to spot dolphins, seals, and seabirds from the boat.
While the dolphin swim is best suited for older children and adults, wildlife cruises are ideal for the whole family. It’s a chance to learn about marine conservation and enjoy the beauty of Rockingham’s waters.
For families looking to connect with nature, a visit to Lake Richmond provides a peaceful retreat. This freshwater lake, located just a short distance from Rockingham’s coastline, is a haven for birdlife and offers a serene environment for a family walk or picnic. The lake is surrounded by walking trails and viewing platforms, making it easy to observe the diverse wildlife that calls the lake home, including the rare thrombolites, ancient microbial structures found in the water.
Lake Richmond is a great place to introduce children to the importance of environmental conservation while enjoying a day out in nature.
For families who enjoy cycling, the Rockingham Coastal Trail offers a scenic route along the coastline, connecting many of the city’s key attractions, including beaches, parks, and reserves. The trail is mostly flat, making it accessible for cyclists of all skill levels, and bike rentals are available in the area for those without their own.
Along the trail, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop for a picnic, swim, or explore, making it easy to turn a simple bike ride into a full day of adventure. It’s a great way to see the natural beauty of Rockingham while staying active.
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Rockingham offers a wide range of outdoor activities for families to enjoy, from wildlife encounters and beach fun to hiking and watersports. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or an educational experience, this coastal gem has it all. So, pack your sunscreen, gather the family, and head outdoors to experience the best that Rockingham has to offer!
