Penguin Island sits a short distance off the coast at Rockingham, about 45 kilometres south of Perth, and forms part of the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. It is a small, low limestone island with white beaches, coastal heath and clear shallow water, and it is best known for its colony of little penguins, the smallest penguin species in the world. The island also supports nesting seabirds such as pelicans, gulls and terns, and the surrounding waters are home to dolphins and, in places, sea lions. A small wildlife centre cares for injured or orphaned penguins, which gives visitors a chance to see the birds up close and learn about their care. The island is a protected area, so visitors follow marked paths and respect closed zones, which keeps the wildlife and the fragile dunes in good shape.
What to do
Most visitors catch the ferry from Rockingham, which takes only a few minutes, and spend the day walking, swimming and watching birds. A walking path loops around the island, with lookouts over the beaches and the neighbouring Seal Island, which is closed to landing. The beaches are calm and clear, so swimming and snorkelling are popular on warm days, and picnic spots with shade help in the heat.
The wildlife centre has daily feeding sessions, which are the best chance to see penguins closely, because wild birds mostly spend the day at sea and come ashore at dusk. Keep your distance from nests, and never feed the wildlife.
Planning
The island has a seasonal pattern, and access is limited during parts of the cooler months to protect breeding seabirds, so check the season and ferry timetable before you set off. The ferry ticket linked here covers the crossing, but check what is included, such as the wildlife centre entry or any extras, when you book.
Rockingham is reached by train from Perth followed by a short bus or taxi ride, or by car in about 45 minutes, and parking is available near the ferry terminal. Bring water, sun protection, swimwear and a hat, because shade on the island is limited, and wear shoes for the paths.
Fitting it in
Allow three to four hours for a relaxed visit, or a whole day if you want to swim, snorkel and walk the full loop. It works well as a half-day trip combined with a seafront lunch in Rockingham, or as part of a longer day that includes other southern coast stops.
Families enjoy it, since the distances are short and the sheltered beaches suit children. If you prefer to see the area from the water, sea kayak tours also run around the marine park, and birdwatchers will find the island a rewarding stop at any time of year.
Good to know
The island is a conservation area, so rules are strict. Dogs are not allowed, picking plants and disturbing nests are prohibited, and visitors should stay on marked paths. Pack a picnic or plan to buy a snack from the small kiosk if it is open, and take rubbish with you.
Binoculars help with birdwatching, especially for pelicans and terns, and a rash vest or sun shirt is useful for snorkellers. Weather can change quickly on the water, so check the forecast, and bring a light jacket for the ferry in the cooler months.
What to expect
The experience
A short ferry crossing to a small marine park island, explored on foot with beaches, birdlife and a penguin wildlife centre.
Best time
Spring to autumn, when the island is open and the weather suits swimming.
How long
Three to four hours, or a full day with a swim and the full walking loop.
Tips
Check the season and timetable, bring water and sun protection, and keep your distance from nests and wildlife.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Wildlife lovers and families who want an easy, sheltered island outing close to the city.
- Families
- Short walks, calm beaches and the penguin centre keep children engaged, and the ferry is brief.
- Couples
- Walk the island loop in the late morning, swim in a quiet cove and finish with a seaside lunch in Rockingham.
- Pair with
- A Rockingham foreshore lunch, or a sea kayaking trip around the marine park.
- Time needed
- Half a day, or a full day if you want to swim and snorkel.
Good questions
Where is Penguin Island?+
It lies just off the coast at Rockingham, about 45 kilometres south of Perth, inside the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. The ferry crossing from Rockingham takes only a few minutes.
Will I see wild penguins?+
Wild little penguins spend most of the day at sea and come ashore at dusk, so you are unlikely to see many on a daytime visit. The wildlife centre on the island lets you see penguins up close at feeding sessions.
Is the island open all year?+
Access is seasonal, and parts of the cooler months are closed to protect breeding seabirds. Check the season and ferry timetable before you travel.
Can I swim there?+
Yes, the beaches are calm and clear, and swimming and snorkelling are popular in warm weather. Take sun protection, because shade is limited.
How do I get to Rockingham from Perth?+
You can drive in about 45 minutes, or take a train followed by a short bus or taxi ride. Parking is available near the ferry terminal.
