Penguin Island is a small parcel of land just 660 metres off the waterfront of Rockingham. As its name suggests, it’s home to over a thousand penguins.

The island also provides a home to seals, while its waters shelter playful dolphins. You can swim at Penguin Island, maybe go snorkelling, or even just relax on the powdery white sands while looking at the crystal clear blue waters.

Where is Penguin Island?

Penguin Island is just five minutes away on a ferry from Shoalwater Bay. The island, part of the Shoalwater Islands Marine Reserve, is just 50 kilometres from the south coast of Perth.

The birds it’s famous for are considered the world’s smallest penguins, reaching only 30 centimetres tall. Due to their size, they’re sometimes called fairy penguins.

How do you get to Penguin Island?

If you’re driving from Perth, give yourself around 45 minutes to an hour to get there. When parking your car, it’s best to be cautious, as there are areas where parking is illegal.

It’s also wise not to leave any valuables in your car. Any luggage, bags, or purses should be kept out of sight to prevent any break-ins.

If you’re taking public transport, you can catch the train south from Perth. Get off at the Rockingham Station, and from there, you can get a bus to get to Penguin Road.

At the mainland’s edge, you’ll need to take a five-minute ride on the ferry. This is the recommended and most convenient route to the island. 

You can get your tickets from the outlet beside Pengo’s Cafe. The trip is operated by Perth Wildlife Encounters, which has the Ecoplus accreditation with the Australian Tourism Accreditation Program.

They also offer private boats. One of which has glass bottoms to view the dolphins swimming under the water.

Ferry trips are hourly, starting from nine in the morning to three in the afternoon. Hourly return trips start at 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM.

Occasionally, additional ferry trips can be available during peak periods.

Reminders Once on Penguin Island

Since the island is not privately owned, you won’t have to pay anything to stay there. Explore to your heart’s content by visiting the Discovery Centre and the Penguin Island Board Walk Trail.

Can you swim in Penguin Island?

If you’re fast enough, you can swim and snorkel at Point Peron, which is just around the corner of the island. Just make sure to get there before the strong winds come in.

However, you’ll need to remember the following:

• Don’t try to walk toward the island due to unpredictable waters that can knock you off of your feet. If you hit your head, you might need to be checked by a neurologist.

• Bring your own food since food isn’t sold on the island. This is especially important if you have gastroenterological issues.

• Avoid leaving rubbish behind. The only things you should be leaving are your footprints.

• Don’t wander off designated boardwalks to keep from harming the homes of the resident animals. You might even accidentally hurt yourself.

• Respect the wildlife by not disturbing their habitats with any kind of pollution, including noise.

• Apply sunblock. Your skin needs to be protected from the harsh Australian sun.

• Take care of your eyes. The reflection from the sun can be strong and glaring, so make sure you have sunglasses and other eye protection.