by Amanda Carlin of Simply Perthfect

Tired of hearing “I’m bored” or watching the kids glued to their screens? It’s time to shake things up and rediscover family-friendly Rockingham!

Just 45 minutes south of Perth, our coastal city offers everything from wildlife watching and island escapades, to action packed adventure and pure beachside relaxation, making it the perfect destination for families seeking entertainment without spending ages in the car.

Whether you have tiny tots, teenagers seeking thrills, or grandparents who enjoy a scenic cycle, we’ve rounded up eight fun activities that will have everyone making memories. Pack your sense of adventure (and the snacks), because here’s eight fantastic ways to create those precious “remember when we…” moments.

1. Foreshore Flow Bike Adventure

Cruise the coast on two wheels with a scenic ride along the 23km Foreshore Flow cycling and walking trail between Port Kennedy and Rockingham Foreshore. This flat, family-friendly path offers stunning ocean views and plenty of stops along the way. Take a smaller bite of this trail with your fam, and start your journey at either the Port Kennedy Boat Ramp or Mersey Point ends – and fuel up with breakfast at Birdie (with an amazing golf themed playground) or Pengo’s Cafe before hitting the trail.

Along the way you’ll pass more playgrounds and amazing ocean views. For lunch, take your pick from Café Barco, Azacca Kitchen, Rocky Bay Patisserie, Bayside Barista (a fave amongst the Gluten Free crew) or why not pack a picnic to eat in a beach side park? Don’t forget to pack your bathers for a refreshing dip along the way! The best bit about this trail is you can choose where to begin, and just how far you ride – perfect for little legs.

2. Wildlife Discovery at Naragebup

Get your wildlife fix at Naragebup, the Rockingham Environmental Centre, which offers exciting educational experiences for families. Ready to unleash your inner Robert Irwin? Kids can get up close with reptile displays and learn all about local native wildlife. Head to their website for wildlife-related events throughout the year. Turn your visit into a full day out with a trip to nearby Point Peron for snorkelling and a picnic lunch. Make your stop extra fun by downloading the free Rockingham Nature Play Passport or collect in-person from either the Rockingham Visitor Centre or Penguin Island Visitor Centre. This turns your day out into an interactive adventure with missions to accomplish at various outdoor locations. Your family’s mission is to spend time outdoors, be adventurous, try new things, be brave, and have tonnes of fun!

Find Naragebup, Rockingham Environmental Centre at 49 Safety Bay Road, Rockingham.

3. Family Kayaking Adventure

Paddle your way along the Rockingham coastline with Capricorn Sea-kayaking’s Oyster Catcher Rockingham Family Adventure Tour. Keep your eyes peeled for sea birds and playful dolphins while skimming over the crystal clear waters. This fun guided experience is perfect for adventurous families wanting to explore the ocean together (in season, October to June).

Post-paddle hunger pangs? Why not enjoy a classic Aussie tradition – devour fresh, crispy fish and chips on the grassy Rockingham Foreshore.

4. Splash and Ride at Perth Aqua Park & Wake Park

Love a water park? How about an INFLATABLE water park? Make a splash at Perth Aqua Park for loads of cool fun! The huge floating inflatable fun park boasts over 100 different inter-connected obstacles. Why not race your siblings down the 3-lane course, down the slides or challenge them on the climbing walls. It’s fun for the entire family (kids 6 years and up), operates seasonally and is open in school holidays. Perth Wake Park offers a Kids Club program, perfect for young water sports fans who want to master wakeboarding. Click here to check their opening hours based on the season. Both spots offer family-friendly facilities, including cafes and rest areas.

Find Perth Aqua Park & Perth Wake Park on the corner of Mundijong Rd and St. Albans Rd, Baldivis.

5. Rockingham Foreshore Fun

Looking for the ultimate family beach day? Rockingham Foreshore has it all, for a top family day out. The star attraction is the calm beach ideal for little swimmers, and the nearby Pirate Ship playground keeps kids entertained for hours. Active families can rent stand-up paddleboards from Surf Mania while the wooden boardwalk offers colourful sun loungers perfect for a little relaxation.

The area is dotted with modern facilities including free BBQs, picnic shelters, and changing rooms. When hunger hits, there’s tonnes of tasty beachfront cafes and restaurants to choose from. Families can enjoy everything from take away snacks to hearty meals with a side of epic ocean views. Plus, it’s just not a trip to the beach without an ice cream – so head to Eye Scream Café for a scoop or two.

6. Penguin Island Adventure

Just a 5-minute ferry ride from the mainland, Penguin Island offers an unforgettable family day out in the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. While wild penguin sightings are rare, families can join the 60-minute glass-bottom boat “Dolphin, Sea Lion & Penguin Island Cruise” to spot many other local sea creatures and water birds.

Finish up with a guided wildlife walk of Penguin Island’s nature trails. Linger longer to explore the island’s pristine beaches perfect for snorkelling and swimming. The island features picnic areas and boardwalks with spectacular views, making it ideal for a full day of adventure. Remember to pack snorkelling gear, a picnic lunch, and your phone or camera to capture wildlife encounters, from nesting seabirds to playful dolphins in the surrounding waters.

Find them at 153 Arcadia Drive (Corner of Penguin Rd), Shoalwater.

7. Indoor Entertainment at Syren Street

Rainy day? No worries! When you need a break from the hot Aussie sun or bad weather, head to Syren Street entertainment precinct at the Rockingham Shopping Centre. Challenge the fam to putting at Hey Caddy’s themed 18-hole mini-golf course, let the kids loose on the arcade games at iPlay or watch the latest blockbusters on the big screen at Ace Cinemas.

Grab a delicious feed on Syren Street. Families can choose from a mouth-watering line-up of dining options, including the casual pub vibes of Cheeky Monkey Brewing Co., sweet treats at San Churro, or family-friendly share plates, pizzas, pastas and more at Martini & Co.

8. Nature Play at Baldivis Children’s Forest

Tick off the Baldivis Children’s Forest in the Rockingham Nature Play Passport! This 20-hectare natural playground is where the kiddos can go wild through hands-on exploration and discovery. The unique community space features winding nature trails, interactive wildlife habitats, and dedicated learning areas where children can spot native birds, discover local plant species, and learn about indigenous culture. Keep your eye on their calendar – the forest hosts exciting events throughout the year, from guided nature walks and wildlife spotting sessions to popular cubby building workshops – which often book out.

Find Baldivis Children’s Forest at 1399 Mandurah Road, Baldivis. Just a short distance away, Lake Walyungup (another Rockingham Nature Play Passport location), transforms with the changing seasons, offering opportunities to spot migratory birds and spectacular spring wildflowers. Bring your binoculars, and don’t forget to wear sturdy shoes for an afternoon of natural exploration.

Whether you’re local to Rockingham or visiting for the day, these family-friendly adventures offer something for all ages. From active outdoor activities to nature experiences and fun indoor entertainment, you’ll find plenty of ways to create you perfect Rockingham day, loaded with special family memories.