WILLETTON WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Paddling with Sea Lions: A Full-Day Kayak to Seal and Penguin Islands
A full-day, family-friendly sea-kayak tour from Perth to Shoalwater Bay that pairs easy double kayaks with guided island walks and close wildlife encounters.
Paddling with Sea Lions: A Full-Day Kayak to Seal and Penguin Islands.
Adventure brief
Paddling with Sea Lions: A Full-Day Kayak to Seal and Penguin Islands
A short drive from Perth delivers you to Shoalwater Bay and a row of stable double sea kayaks waiting to be launched. The day is paced around wildlife—Australian sea lions and dolphins that often swim and splash beside the boats—then a guided nature walk ashore, a picnic lunch and unstructured time to snorkel, explore tidepools and relax on the island.
Just a short ride from the city of Willetton in Western Australia, the Seal and Penguin Islands Sea Kayak Day Tour offers a rare chance to immerse yourself in some of the region’s most vibrant marine environments. Set against the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean, this guided trip takes paddlers out to two remarkable islands renowned for their distinctive wildlife and coastal scenery. Seal Island is home to a lively colony of Australian sea lions, while Penguin Island gets its name from being one of the few places in the world where you can spot the tiny, endangered little penguin in its natural habitat. The islands lie just off the coast near Rockingham, a convenient nearby city choice for overnight stays or extending your adventure along Western Australia’s coast.
What sets this kayak tour apart is its blend of wildlife encounters and the chance to explore geological formations unique to these islands. You'll paddle past sandstone outcrops that reveal layers of ancient reefs and fossilized remnants, characteristic of the region's shifting coastal geology. Along the way, keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the water and nesting seabirds dotting the shoreline. This is a protected marine park, so every guide is well-versed in conservation practices and the careful stewardship needed to ensure the natural wonder of this place remains unspoiled.
The tour is designed for a wide range of skill levels, making it family-friendly while still providing the excitement of ocean kayaking. Guides provide all the necessary gear and safety briefings to make this a seamless and engaging experience. Your paddle path traces calm bays and sheltered inlets, perfect for quiet observation of seals basking on rocks or penguins waddling ashore. The fresh sea air combined with scenic island vistas makes for an invigorating day away from urban life.
Seal and Penguin Islands themselves hold cultural significance for local indigenous groups, and the tour guides often share stories about traditional connections to the land and sea. Established marine protection zones date back decades, reflecting Western Australia’s commitment to preserving its coastal ecosystems.
Book this day tour to enjoy wildlife viewing, learn about local ecology, and experience the thrill of sea kayaking amid some of Australia’s most intriguing islands. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure traveler, or just looking to disconnect for a day on the water, this Seal and Penguin Islands Sea Kayak Day Tour is a standout outdoor journey in the Perth area coastline.
Route Schematic
Route & Key Stops
A simple, linear day: pickup in Perth, paddling in Shoalwater Bay, an island landing with a guided walk and lunch, then free time ashore before returning.
Perth pickup / Bus transfer
The operator’s bus departs Perth daily to Shoalwater Bay where the group meets and transfers to the water.
Kayak introduction and wildlife viewing
Participants are introduced to stable double sea kayaks and paddling technique before heading into the bay to view Australian sea lions and dolphins from the water.
Island landing and guided nature walk
The group lands on the island for a guided nature walk and then sits down for a provided picnic lunch.
Free time: snorkel, explore, relax
After lunch the remainder of the day is at your leisure to snorkel with supplied masks, search for shellfish and starfish, watch seabirds, or simply relax.
Dress for the weather and expect to get a bit wet from the paddles; bring a change of clothes. Life jackets and full-face snorkel masks are provided.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
The day moves from a relaxed bus transfer out of Perth to a calm launch into Shoalwater Bay. Guided paddling sessions focus on wildlife viewing from stable double kayaks, then the pace eases ashore for a guided walk and picnic; the afternoon is deliberately unstructured so families can snorkel, sunbathe or explore tidal rockpools.
THE WILDLIFE
Sea Lions and Dolphins at Play
Playful Australian sea lions frequently swim alongside the kayaks, and dolphins may join the group—close, natural wildlife encounters that unfold from the water.
THE BOATING
Stable Double Kayaks for All Ages
Participants paddle in easy, stable double kayaks provided by the operator—an accessible platform for first-timers and families to move confidently through sheltered waters.
THE ISLAND
Guided Walks, Snorkeling and Tidepool Life
After landing there’s a guided nature walk and a picnic lunch; the remaining time is yours to snorkel with supplied full-face masks, hunt for shellfish and starfish, and inspect shorebirds, crabs and lizards.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this day tour suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Shorts, footwear you don’t mind getting wet, towel, hat, sunscreen, strap for glasses, a change of clothes for after, and drinks/snacks as desired. If your camera is not waterproof, bring a dry bag.
The operator provides double kayaks, paddles, life jackets, professional guides, a healthy picnic lunch, transport from Perth and full-face snorkel masks.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
This is a full-day tour.
Where does the tour depart from?
A bus departs Perth daily to Shoalwater Bay where the tour launches.
What is included in the price?
The tour price includes transport from Perth, double kayaks, paddles, life jackets, professional guides, a healthy picnic lunch and full-face snorkel masks.
What should I bring?
Bring shorts, footwear you don’t mind getting wet, a towel, hat, sunscreen, strap for glasses, a change of clothes and something to drink; a dry bag is recommended for non-waterproof cameras.
Are children welcome?
Yes—the operator describes the tour as a fantastic trip for the whole family and offers child pricing.
Will I see sea lions or dolphins?
Australian sea lions commonly swim and splash around the kayaks and dolphins may also be encountered during the paddling portion of the day.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-12T12:11:26.602Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.