Prince should ditch Cottesloe, head south

Forget Cottesloe and head to Rockingham instead - that is Mark McGowan's message for Prince Charles ahead of his Australian tour next month.

In response to last week's announcement the Prince and his wife Camilla would enjoy a barbecue at Cottesloe beach, Mr McGowan said the heir to the throne ought to re-think plans and head south of the river.

He said waters at Rockingham foreshore were calmer and safer and he assured the royal couple they would feel right at home, thanks to the large number of Brits who call the city home.

"There seems to be this strange focus on Cottesloe - why not venture to other parts of the metropolitan area and visit somewhere real," Mr McGowan said.

"Around 20 per cent of Rockingham residents are British born and there is a strong history of British people living here."

South African backpacker Richard Lee, who visited Rockingham foreshore on Friday for the first time, said he was stunned by the scenic views over Cockburn Sound and crystal clear turquoise waters.

Mr Lee joined Mr McGowan and fellow tourists in inviting the Prince to see Rockingham.

"It's really very nice here," he said.

Mr McGowan assured Prince Charles he was not at risk of being accosted by a woman in her bathers.

"I have been swimming at this beach for 25 years and have never had a bikini-clad woman kiss me," he said.

"Camilla will be happy to know Charles will be completely safe here."

The Prince will celebrate his 67th birthday at Cottesloe on November 14.