Rockingham Foreshore is a brilliant, family-friendly stretch of coast that makes it easy to spend a full day by the sea with kids of all ages. The area has had a major revitalisation in recent years, transforming it into a vibrant “Playground by the sea” with calm, shallow water, upgraded public spaces and loads of facilities nearby for families to enjoy.
The main attraction is the gently shelving, usually calm beach, which is ideal for younger children and less confident swimmers. Protected within Mangles Bay, waves are typically small, so kids can splash, paddle and practice swimming without being knocked over. Older children and teens will love swimming out to the seasonal pontoons to jump and dive into the clear water, or simply spending time in the deeper water away from the shoreline. With the foreshore stretching a long way in both directions, there’s plenty of room to spread out, even on busier summer days.
Along the beachfront, the terraced promenade makes the most of the ocean views. Built-in sun lounges dotted along the grassed terraces are perfect for parents to relax while watching the kids play.
One of the standout features for families is the wide concrete slide leading from the terrace level down towards the sand. Framed by a rock wall, it doubles as a small climbing slope on either side. Children can scramble up, then whizz back down again and again, making simply getting to the sand part of the fun.
Behind the beach is a wide band of shady grass that runs the length of the foreshore. This parkland area is home to several traditional Playgrounds and fun play pockets, giving children an alternative to the sand and sea. You’ll find swings, climbing structures and slides, as well as open lawn that’s great for ball games, cartwheels and just running off energy.
Churchill Park Play Space is a standout, nature-themed Playground along the foreshore, designed around mature shady trees with a “forest to sea” feel. Kids can climb nets, balance on logs, explore shipwreck-style elements and zoom down slides, all on a non–sand-based surface that keeps shoes and prams clean between beach swims, while parents will appreciate the nearby toilets, barbecues, picnic shelters and easy access to the cafés across the road.
If you prefer to keep moving, the shared paths along the foreshore are flat and pram-friendly, and are well suited to scooters and small bikes.
For families who love fishing, the jetty at Rockingham Foreshore is a popular local spot to cast a line. Kids can try their luck while the rest of the family enjoys the coastal views and sea breeze. The broader foreshore precinct also includes jetties further along the coast, and the area is well known for sailing, paddle boarding and other water sports in the wider Cockburn Sound.
Accessibility and inclusivity have been a big focus of the foreshore redevelopment. As well as level promenades and wide paths, Rockingham offers accessible beach experiences through features such as seasonal beach matting and beach wheelchairs that can be hired locally, making it easier for people with mobility challenges to enjoy the sand and water. The shady, grassed parks, multiple Playgrounds and comfortable seating options give everyone – from toddlers to grandparents – spots to rest and play.
Food-wise, you’re very well covered. If you don’t feel like packing an esky, Rockingham Foreshore is lined with cafés, restaurants and takeaways just across the road from the beach. There are plenty of options for coffee stops, casual brunches and easy family dinners with views over the bay. Sweet tooths can grab an ice cream or dessert, and classic fish and chips are available on or near the foreshore, ideal to enjoy on the grass or down on the sand as the sun goes down.
The broader Rockingham Foreshore precinct continues north and south beyond the main section of beach, with additional parks, Playgrounds and reserves accessible by car or along the coastal paths. This makes it a great base for a half-day or full-day visit, whether you want to stick close to the main strip with food and facilities, or explore further afield along the coast.
Overall, Rockingham Foreshore is a fantastic, low-cost family day out. The safe swimming, variety of play spaces, plentiful shade, barbecues and nearby dining options make it very easy with kids, while the scenic views and relaxed holiday feel keep the adults happy too. Pack your beach gear, bikes or scooters, and plan to spend the day enjoying one of Perth’s most family-friendly coastal precincts.
Rockingham Foreshore
Address: Rockingham Beach Road, Rockingham WA 6168
Opening hours: Beach and foreshore parkland accessible 24 hours; nearby cafés and restaurants have individual trading hours
Website: City of Rockingham – Rediscover Rockingham
Find more things to do in Perth with kids here.
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Amanda Carlin has her own food and travel blog. Established in 2013, (first as “The Chef, His Wife and Their Perth-fect Life”) Amanda loves getting out and about in Perth and WA for her blog ‘Simply PERTHfect’. You’ll find her checking out the newest foodie spots (brunching, tapas or something a little fancy), as well as fun family activities with the kiddos in tow, so Amanda always has plenty of family friendly eating options to recommend too! Be sure to check out Simply PERTHfect.
