Rockingham is named after the last of the three of Thomas Peel’s ships that were bringing settlers from London in 1830. The Rockingham was a 423 tonne ship that ran aground in Cockburn Sound.
Rockingham offers a range of water-based recreational activities. You can swim with the dolphins, canoe around Seal Island or visit the penguins at Penguin Island.
Penguin Island is home to the largest colony of Little Penguins in Western Australia. Little Penguins are the smallest penguins in the world. The Penguin Experience – Island Discovery Centre provides visitors with the opportunity to see and learn about penguins. The island also has extensive visitor facilities, including picnic areas, boardwalks and walkways.
Penguin Island is part of the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. The marine park covers 6545 hectares and contains the waters of Shoalwater Bay, Warnbro Sound and part of Cockburn Sound off Cape Peron. The marine park supports a diverse environment including a colony of Australian sea lions – the rarest of the species in the world.
Rockingham’s foreshore provides a picturesque setting for picnics, swimming, or eating out at one of the many water-front cafes.
Location: Rockingham is 47 kilometres south of Perth and is located on the shores of the Indian Ocean.
Experience Perth
Rockingham Visitor Centre