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.
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.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
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.
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.
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.
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.