“There’s something in the water…I can see a fin!” shouted my Dad, cautious and excited all at once. We waited on edge, scouring the waves. Could it be a shark? It wasn’t. All of sudden, right in front of my kayak, in perfect semi-circle form, a dolphin leaped out of the water. Tears ran down my face. Finally I was seeing one of my favourite animals in the wild. Kayaking in Australia was already pretty great, and that experience was the icing on this delicious cake of a day.
We were paddling out to Penguin Island, just off the coast from Rockingham. About an hour south of Perth, it is an exceptional day trip for anyone travelling around Western Australia. Here is my guide to kayaking to Penguin Island.
Exploring the Islands by Kayak
There are two islands off the coast of Rockingham that are great for exploring by kayak. Seal Island is a protected island, not for its Seals ironically, but for its Australian Sea Lions! While you are not able to land on this island, the sea lions will certainly come towards you. They are notoriously inquisitive and playful animals. Kayaks are prime toys for them to jump around and investigate.
Neighbouring to Seal Island, is Penguin Island. I know – penguins in Australia? But yes, this island is home to a colony (word?) of penguins! We didn’t manage to see any while there, as they hide during the peak hot times of the day. But this is a beautiful island to stop and have some lunch and a snorkel, before paddling back to the mainland.
Wildlife of Australia
You can’t be kayaking in Australia and NOT thinking about the amazing wildlife, right?! Being in this incredible environment out at sea can offer some wavy paddling (see below video) – but also gives way for incredible wildlife. Sea lions and penguins are just the start of it – there are lots of opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Keep an eye out for birds of prey along the cliffs of Seal Island. And watch for pelicans flying past with their bucket beaks and heavy wings. Of course, my favourite encounter: the dolphins. After the initial sight of one lone dolphin, we eventually came across an entire pod! We were just off the coast of Penguin Island, too far for those on the beach to witness these majestic creatures. We felt priviledged and incredibly honoured to watch these animals in their happy, wild environment.
The water is also crystal clear, so don’t forget to look below. It can get fairly shallow, so certainly be careful with your kayak. But you may also be able to spot fish and coral reefs while paddling.
Costs: Guided Kayaking or Boat Hire
To start with, you’ll need a kayak. Obviously. For those who are beginners or would prefer a guide, there are a couple of options. Check out Capricorn Sea Kayaking or Perth Wildlife Encounters. Both tours offer full equipment, an experienced guide and the boats are sit-in sea kayaks. These guided tours come in at around $190 per person, per day.
If you are an experienced paddler or water confident, there is also an opportunity to hire kayaks. We found local Hayley and her awesome hiring option by asking a local surf shop who pointed us her direction. Hayley provides sit-on-top kayaks and good quality gear, including buoyanct aids. She’ll also chat to you about the winds and tides, to ensure you’re picking the safest route. And will collect you and the boats at the end of your day! The easiest way to reach her is via phone on 0474089272 or by email panaza77.go@gmail.com. Priced from $50 per kayak, per day.
Further reading:
While you’re exploring Western Australia, don’t forget about Perth! There is plenty to do in this beautiful city. Even adventures, like surfing!
Have you been kayaking in Australia before? I’d love to hear all about it! Leave a comment or connect with me on Instagram. And if you’ve enjoyed this post, get subscribed to the newsletter or you can even buy me a coffee to fuel my content!
