I’m gonna say it: Point Peron in Rockingham (WA) should be on every Perth local and visitor’s list. And there’s a tonne of reasons why. From its turquoise blue waters to its solace-friendly pathways and cosy beaches, this place makes you feel as if Denmark’s Ocean Beach is down the road, as if Margaret River is the local township, or even as if you’ve somehow landed on Rottnest Island.
And yet this is a locale where a significant number of its working population make the daily commute to Perth for work. It’s that close to the big smoke that most of us who live in the city don’t bother to even check it out. But my wife and I did — and we’ve visited several times since.
Jump to:
- How we found ourselves in Rockingham
- Rockingham has a stigma
- Where is Point Peron exactly?
- Activities for Point Peron visitors
- Point Peron’s history
- Best time to visit
- FAQ’s about Point Peron
- Is Point Peron worth visiting?
How we found ourselves in Rockingham
My wife, toddler and I were new caravan owners. Yet the 21.6-foot Leader Gold had sat still for three months, as if the driveway were its permanent home.
But finally, our Landcruiser was fitted with all the goodies to link up the caravan to its hind, and we were searching for destinations to test it out. As newbies with a young daughter, we wanted proximity to civilisation, somewhere we could easily return home from should caravanning be less desirable than we thought.
We turned to Rockingham, a place I hadn’t been since I was a kid.
We navigated (with the help of excellent staff) into our site at Rockingham Caravan Park, and with jaws dropped at the local nature beauty that surrounded us, we planned our weekend stay. Point Peron was on the list, and after our first night (a success, by way of a toddler sleeping through and us not burning the caravan down by using the stove for the first time), we ventured to Point Peron with towels, sunscreen and picnic hamper in tow.
And boy, did it blow away any expectations. (To the point where we checked realestate.com.au for available properties… just, you know, out of curiosity).
Let’s face it: Rockingham has a stigma
And I reckon that locals want that stigma to stay.
See, us Perthians have been led to believe that Rockingham — Point Peron’s home — is rough. Its working-class population may suggest as much, and we’ve been told by word of mouth that it’s unsafe, it’s rough, it’s not for commonfolk — especially not for a weekend getaway.
I now laugh at that false notoriety (and was suspicious about it at first).
Because instead, a visit will prove to you that the locals are fantastically lovely, the type of big-hearted West Aussies you’d cross your fingers to have as your next-door neighbour. We felt welcomed immediately, warmed by the local smiles and relaxed vibe that Rockingham locals must want to keep a secret from us city folk. Just half an hour from Perth, and the atmosphere in certain parts of Rockingham resembled the communities in the Perth Hills, the spaciousness of Dawesville, the promises of hidden gems begging to be found that Yanchep makes.
Where is Point Peron exactly?
Point Peron, also known as Cape Peron or Boya Kaarla, is a long headland at the southern end of Cockburn Sound in Rockingham, Western Australia. Locals call the headland Point Peron, and it’s part of Rockingham’s coastal gems, surrounded by the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park and overlooking the ocean toward Garden Island and Penguin Island.
Activities for Point Peron visitors
Point Peron’s a cracker spot for a day out. Wander coastal trails with sweeping ocean views, dive into the bays for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking, check out some WWII bunkers, or do what we did: pack a picnic, cast a line and stick around for sunsets that light up the sky over Shoalwater Islands.
Beach hangs
Point Peron is ideal for relaxing on the sand and getting yourself wet in the serene ocean waters. As a point, it’s relatively sheltered from northerlies or southerlies depending on which side of the headland you choose for your towel, umbrella or picnic rug. The beaches range from sandy coves to rocky inlets, and families will find plenty of space to spread out, splash around and explore tidal pools with little ones.
Coastal walks
The Cape Peron Loop Trail winds around the headland and gives you a chance to soak in panoramic ocean views, rugged limestone cliffs and the sweeps of limestone paths cutting through coastal shrub. There are several intersecting trails, lookouts and vantage points that reveal the Indian Ocean and Shoalwater Islands Marine Park from different angles, making it perfect for a morning wander or sunset stroll.
John Point Beach, just north of the main headland, offers a beautiful north-facing strip of coastline and long reef platforms that are enjoyable to walk, take photos, or simply sit and watch waves roll in.
WWII history
The Peron Battery, a state heritage listed World War II coastal defence installation, sits near the tip of Point Peron. Established in early 1943 as part of the Fremantle Fortress network protecting the port and approaches of Western Australia, the battery included heavy guns and observation posts. Today you can still see remnants of the artillery positions and interpretation signage, and local efforts are underway to preserve and restore this piece of history.
Freediving & Snorkelling
Point Peron’s clear, shallow waters, limestone formations and rocky outcrops make it a standout snorkelling spot near Perth. There’s abundant marine life including small fish, seagrass beds, kelp, rays and more beneath the surface, and advanced snorkellers can explore deeper swim-throughs and natural features just offshore.
Crayfishing
Point Peron sits within Shoalwater Islands Marine Park waters where crayfish can be targeted from boats in season (check regulations). The rocky reef edges and sheltered bays attract a variety of fish species and crustaceans, making it a favourite among local fishers seeking a feed straight from the sea.
Fishing
From rocky headlands to gentler sandy shelves, Point Peron is a reliable coastline for beach and rock fishing. Tailor, snapper, herring and other species are common catches, and anglers will often set up near limestone outcrops or deeper gutters along the shore.
Point Peron’s history
Originally named after French naturalist François Péron who surveyed the WA coast in 1801, the cape’s story stretches back long before modern recreation.
During World War II, Point Peron formed part of the coastal defence battery system known as the Fremantle Fortress, intended to protect Fremantle Harbour against potential threats. The Peron Battery was installed in 1943 with multiple gun positions and observation posts. Although it never fired in anger, its remnants remain visible and contribute to the historical character of the headland today.
For generations, Point Peron has also been a backdrop to school camps, family picnics and nature outings, cementing its place in local memory and community traditions.
Best time to visit Point Peron
Point Peron and Rockingham are great year-round, but your experience will shift with the seasons.
Summer is perfect for swimming, snorkelling and long days on the beach, but it can be busy with locals and tourists flocking to the coastline. Autumn and spring offer milder temperatures, fewer crowds and calm waters for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Winter can be windy and cooler, ideal for walks along the Cape Peron trails, spotting migrating birds and enjoying the quieter side of the area.
As expected, weekdays are generally less busy than weekends, especially during school holidays when parents are desperate for kid-friendly activities.
FAQs about Point Peron
Can you swim?
Yes, Point Peron offers several calm, sheltered beaches ideal for swimming, especially on lighter wind days when the water is flatter and clearer. Always be mindful of surf conditions and tides, especially on southern or exposed sides of the headland.
Can you walk dogs at Point Peron?
Yes, dogs are allowed in designated areas of Cape Peron that are part of Rockingham Lakes Regional Park, but must remain on leash and under control. Specific park maps detail dog-friendly zones; outside of these areas dogs may be restricted.
Are there any facilities?
There are car parks around the headland with walking access to beaches and trails, and toilets are located near the Point Peron Boat Ramp area. There’s no dedicated BBQ or picnic structure throughout the whole headland, so bring what you need.
Is there food on site?
During busier periods, a coffee and food caravan often operates in the main parking area, offering caffeine, ice creams and light snacks to visitors.
Does it get busy?
It can, especially on warm weekends and holidays, as families, fishers, swimmers and walkers all make their way down from Perth and Rockingham. Early starts often make for quieter mornings and easier parking.
Where can you park?
There are several unofficial car parks along Point Peron Road and at the trailheads around the cape. Pay attention to signage as some areas are reserved for specific uses such as boat launching or bus parking.
Is Point Peron worth visiting?
Yes — absolutely. The headland combines easy access from Perth with beach swimming, snorkelling, fishing, coastal walking, panoramic views and a slice of local history all in one place.
Its close proximity to the amazing cafes, restaurants and amenity in Rockingham town, make it perfect for family day trips or just a quiet sunset session by the sea while you enjoy an extended stay in Rockingham. It might only be half an hour from Perth, but it’ll feel like you’re a long way further from home with a visit to Point Peron and its beautiful surrounds.
Like staying close to Perth for your adventures? Check out our top overnight camping spots within reach of Perth CBD.
