There’s no denying the lead up to Christmas can be a little hectic, between Christmas shopping, decorating, wrapping, grocery shopping and not to mention all the social events, it feels like there’s little time for anything else. It is the holiday season after all, so the good news is taking one day out for yourself is perfectly ok and here are some ideas on how best to spend it.

Breakfast at Fusionz Café. Located on the Rockingham Foreshore, a perfect spot to enjoy the most important meal of the day. A simple but fulfilling menu, my top picks were ‘smashed avo delight’ and ‘vegetarian breakfast’, portion sizes were decent and very reasonably priced. Plenty of seating indoors and some tables available for alfresco dining. Dogs welcome in the alfresco area. Coffee was great, staff are friendly and timely. Open 7:30am – 3pm Monday to Thursday and 7:30 – 4pm Friday – Sunday. Lunch specials including a glass of beer or wine available all day. Fusionz also host ‘Nappy Hour’ on a Tuesday from 10-11:30am to give parents a place and space to meet up, chat and enjoy some coffee and cake.

Address: Shop 4, 17-21 Rockingham Beach Road
Ph: 0493 152 248
Facebook: Fusionz

After breakfast take a stroll down to My Little Bookshop, located on Railway Terrace. Here you’ll be transported to a magical Christmas wonderland. This adorable little store is fun, quirky and perfectly laid out. Check out all the sections and lose yourself in the wide variety of books from cooking to crime thrillers. Sit back on the comfy chairs and soak in the atmosphere. My Little Bookshop pride themselves on celebrating diversity, hosting a range of LGBTQ+ events and offering 10% off on Tuesday’s to those who show their companion card. My Little Bookshop will end all your Christmas shopping angst as there’s so many thoughtful and unique gift options. Kerry and the other friendly staff are also here to help you out if you’re stuck and need some recommendations. MLB is open until 8pm on Christmas eve, sip on eggnog, eat some treats and meet Mrs Claus while you search for last minute gifts. Don’t forget to bring your letter to Santa, and keep an eye out for upcoming events in the new year such as Galantines Day, Queer singles night and mid-week book club.

Address: 10/5-7 Railway Terrace, Rockingham
Ph: (08) 9524 6438
Instagram: @mylittlebookshop_
Facebook: Mylittlebookshop_

Next up is The Life Spring, Rockingham’s very own float tank. There’s honestly no better way to beat the Christmas stress (or least escape it for a short while), than floating in a spacious salt bath. Choose your own lighting, listen to calming sounds while feeling all stress and tension leave your body. For someone who struggles to switch off, I didn’t think I would last the whole hour floating, however it turned out to be one of the most relaxing experiences I’ve ever had and the hour went by very quickly. The Life Spring has three double float cabins, there’s so much space so feeling claustrophobic isn’t an issue, you can even share your cabin with a friend or loved one. After the float, rinse off and enjoy a cup of tasty herbal tea and a biscuit in the relaxation room. Staff are very welcoming, friendly and willing to answer any questions you might have. The benefits of floating are tremendous – less stress, enhanced mood, pain relief, increased circulation and increased sports performance to name a few. Book a single float, couples float or even a massage. Multi passes and memberships are available, see website for full price list. Call to book or book your session online.

Address: 2 Market Street, Rockingham 
Ph: (08) 9557 6175
Instagram: @floatrockingham 
Facebook: The Life Spring Float Cabin Centre Rockingham

Finish the day with dinner at Latitude 32. Sit front and centre along the vibrant Rockingham Foreshore, watch the sun go down over Cockburn Sound while enjoying an amazing dinner and some well deserved drinks. Named after the coordinates the restaurant sits on, Latitude 32 pride themselves on the very best customer service and specialise in quality steaks and seafood with a dessert menu that is equally impressive. Eat like a king by ordering the steak and lobster or be daring and try some escargot. Whether you come in for a full meal or just for a cocktail, (which are created to perfection), you’ll be greeted with vibrant, friendly staff. Inside and shaded outside seating options available. If you’re stuck for a Christmas gift, why not pass on the pleasure of fine dining and purchase a Latitude 32 gift card.

Address: Shop 7 & 8, The Boardwalk, Rockingham 
Ph: (08) 9592 8881
Instagram: @latitude_32
Facebook:Latitude 32

Feeling festive again after a day of relaxation? After dinner take a wander through Railway Terrace to see the magical Christmas lights display. Lights will be on every night through Christmas and into the new year.

After a blissful and relaxing day, you’ll be ready to go fourth, conquer and enjoy the rest of the Christmas period.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas! See you in the New Year.