

Best for beginner divers, 2-5m, shore entry, mild current.
Penguin Island in Rockingham offers shallow diving and snorkelling across a mix of reef and seagrass habitats. With depths ranging from 2 to 5 metres and an average of 3 metres, the site is suitable for beginners. Visibility typically spans 5 to 10 metres. Access is via the shore, with dives lasting approximately 50 minutes. While currents are generally mild, divers should remain cautious of surge and potential rip currents near the island edges. Water temperatures fluctuate between 18C and 22C, making a wetsuit advisable. The island is closed to the public on days forecast to reach 35C or higher to protect local wildlife.
-32.30750, 115.69150
Visit during the summer months of December through March when conditions are at their calmest and wildlife activity is highest. Enter the water slowly and keep an eye on the current near the island's edges, as rips can develop without much warning.
Access to Penguin Island is via a 5-minute ferry from Mersey Point in Shoalwater. It is also accessible by private boat or kayak. Authorities strongly advise against walking across the 700m sandbar due to the risk of changing tides and strong currents, which has led to drownings.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 5m
Visibility
5-10m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
18-22°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec
Yes, the site is considered suitable for beginners due to its shallow depths of 2 to 5 metres and generally mild currents.
The depth at this site ranges from 2 to 5 metres, with an average depth of 3 metres.
This is a shore dive located 700 metres from the mainland.
The best months to visit are January, February, March, and December when conditions are at their calmest.
Diving at Penguin Island in Rockingham requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Penguin Island in Rockingham. Water temperatures range from 18°C to 22°C.
The best months to visit Penguin Island in Rockingham are January, February, March, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Penguin Island in Rockingham typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Penguin Island in Rockingham typically ranges from 5 metres to 10 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.