Shoalwater Islands Marine Park covers coastal water and islands off Rockingham. You can enjoy the view from shore, book a wildlife cruise or, when access is permitted, take a ferry to Penguin Island. These choices have different costs and conditions. The park is home to sensitive habitat as well as popular water activities, so decide where you are going before launching a boat or entering the water.
| Visit option | What to check |
|---|---|
| Foreshore | Weather, beach signs and access from Mersey Point |
| Wildlife cruise | Operator’s route, departure, price and cancellation terms |
| Penguin Island | Seasonal or heat closure and the current ferry timetable |
Coast, islands and wildlife
DBCA describes snorkelling, swimming, paddling and birdwatching in the park. Little penguins, Australian sea lions and dolphins use this environment, but their appearance is never guaranteed. Park entry itself is free; ferries and commercial tours charge separately. The islands and rock outcrops are not all open to landing.
The marine-park visitor guide sets out sanctuary zones, where fishing is prohibited, and areas with specific boating limits. It says boats must not land on nature reserve islands and rock outcrops. Read the current zoning map before fishing or boating; a beach view is no guide to an invisible boundary offshore. Observe wildlife without feeding it or manoeuvring for a close photo.
Penguin Island needs its own plan
The Penguin Island conservation page says the island closes after the June long weekend until October for the breeding season. It can also close in unsafe weather or on forecast days of 35°C or more in summer. Its Discovery Centre is closed. Check DBCA park alerts and the privately operated ferry timetable before promising children an island visit.
Do not walk across the sandbar from Mersey Point. DBCA warns that currents and water depth change quickly and that people have drowned attempting the crossing. Take the ferry when the island is open. Bring what you need for the day, as DBCA says there are no food outlets on the island, and take rubbish back with you.
Choose a backup on the mainland
A closed island does not always rule out a shore walk or a booked cruise, but check the specific activity and weather independently. For a tour focused on dolphins, use our Rockingham dolphins guide. For a water-entry day, compare Perth snorkelling and choose conditions within your ability.
Keep planning
Nearby Attractions
Distances are approximate straight-line measurements between mapped attractions, not walking, driving or public transport distances.
Penguin Island
Penguin Island is a small conservation island off Shoalwater with seasonal public access, seabird habitat, boardwalks and ferry-based visitor trips.
Island conservation park
View Penguin Island guide
