Since the 19th century, people have journeyed to Rockingham’s coastline in Perth, Australia to sightsee and hopefully witness sea lions and penguins. Alongside the wildlife, there are also many recreational activities, from paddle boarding to walking trails. Here are the best things to do while visiting beautiful Rockingham.
Baldivis Karnup Wine Trail
Within Rockingham lies one of the most promising wine regions in Western Australia. Locals of this region own and operate all five wineries located on the Baldivis Karnup Wine Trail, which contribute to the greater Peel Wine Region. Most wineries are within a short drive from the center of Rockingham and each other. This makes it an excellent day out with friends. Enjoy tasting the flavors of the local and national award-winning wineries.
Cape Peron
Are you looking for a place to enjoy nice beaches and a sunset, plenty of walking trails and swimming opportunities? Do you also want to see a remarkable view of Garden Island – an island only accessible by private boat? If the answer is yes, then the headland of Rockingham is for you. Cape Peron, a fantastic day trip for all the family, will introduce you to many offshore reefs at Point Peron and Mushroom Rocks. These places offer spectacular snorkeling through the surrounding corals and caves. If you’d rather stay onshore, admire the rugged cliffs or go fishing on the beach. Alternatively, take advice from the local sea lions and bask in the sun.
Lake Cooloongup
Lake Cooloongup is part of Rockingham Lakes Regional Park. Dependent on rainfall and the water that flows through the ground, this natural saline lake – once connected to the ocean – offers many trail-based recreational activities to experience. A walk through the woodlands, from dusk till dawn, is a must. Lake Cooloongup, Cooloongup WA 6168 http://instagram.com/p/BHeWzElAlDI/
Penguin Island
Off the shore of Rockingham lies one of the states’ lesser-known tourist islands, home to the world’s smallest penguins. Penguin Island is accessible via a five-minute ferry ride. This brings you to the home of sea birds, sea lions, dolphins, and pelicans in their natural habitat. If, however, you aren’t lucky enough to spot the penguins on the island, the Discovery Centre will bring you face-to-face with these adorable creatures during their feeding times.
Rockingham Beach
Western Australia is blessed with many hours of sunshine, so there’s no reason not to make the most of it by heading to Rockingham Beach. The long stretch of sand allows you to not only walk alongside the water, but often also lets you to walk a fair distance out into the ocean, where the water will still only be up to your knees. While the sand is good for sandcastles and picnics, the calm water is excellent for paddle boarding.
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The Rockingham Museum offers many displays detailing Western Australia’s history at different points in time. The museum profiles the states’ heritage, and visitors can discover the museum’s large collection of maps and local newspapers. Housed in the former Rockingham Road Board Building built in 1946 and 1947, this art deco building became known as the community museum in the late ’90s after extending to the library building.
Rockingham War Memorial
There are many war memorials thoughtfully placed throughout the country commemorating the nation’s servicemen and women who served in any military action, wars, and conflicts. Take a moment out of your day to remember those who fought for our country at the Rockingham War Memorial.
On the other side of Rockingham lies another excellent beach; after all, Australia is well-known for its beaches. Safety Bay Beach is surrounded by several rock islands and sand banks offshore, meaning the waves are gentle and water sports like kite surfing abound. Be sure to bring a picnic to enjoy in the grass under the shady trees. If you look carefully you may even spot seal colonies and fairy penguins swim past the rock islands.
The Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is a protected marine park that extends up to the north of Garden Island, and offers many snorkeling and diving opportunities to discover the reefs and shipwrecks below. Within this park lies the 400-tonne former fishing vessel Saxon Ranger.This is the ‘first purpose sunk dive wreck in Perth metropolitan area.’ Additionally, a cruise and trip to Seal Island is highly recommended, where you will come close to the rare Australian sea lions in their natural habitat.
Syren Street
Built in 2009, Syren Street has become Rockingham’s go-to place for premier alfresco dining. There are family-friendly venues and an architect-designed boulevard. So, go ahead and walk along this strip before enjoying a meal under the stars or a movie at the cinema. Featuring beer garden offerings, snacks, and excellent steak dinners, Syren Street has a diverse range of restaurants that will satisfy even the fussiest of eaters. http://instagram.com/p/BGqF3zaC_fV/
Growing up in the most isolated city in the world, Ellie moved to London embarking on a new journey and embracing her love for all things culture-based. Despite making her way across the world taking photographs of everything and eating her way through anything sweet and sugary, Ellie continues to celebrate all things Australian.
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