Travel plans: The 10 South Australian hidden travel gems you must visit

Got your sights set on local travel this long weekend? From swimming in a sinkhole to a Bali-inspired swing, here are ten hidden travel gems to check out with the family.

Newcomers and longtime residents of South Australia alike may be well acquainted with Hahndorf, Glenelg Beach and the Barossa Valley.

But South Australia has even more to offer than its well-known attractions – as these must-see hidden gems reveal!

Did you know SA is home to a water-filled sinkhole in a rural paddock, a hilltop swing with panoramic views of Adelaide, or a mysterious magnet that seemingly pulls cars uphill?

Here are our top picks of the state’s most interesting and picturesque attractions that are hiding in plain sight.

1. GARDEN ISLAND

Port Adelaide

History buffs can delve into SA’s maritime heritage at the Garden Island ship graveyard to see one of the world’s largest vessel collection of its kind, some dating from as far back as the early 1800s.

Located about 30 minutes away northwest of Adelaide, take a two-hour canoe trip around the water trail to see 26 preserved wrecks including dredgers, ferries, motor vessels and sailing ships.

2. LITTLE BLUE LAKE

Mount Salt Road, Mount Schank

Just 15 minutes out of Mount Gambier, you will find a water-filled sinkhole in the middle of a paddock, making for the perfect road trip pit stop to cool off on hot days.

Little Blue is an impressive size – 40m wide, with water up to 47m deep and cliff walls of up to 8m. But for these reasons, it’s advised that inexperienced swimmers think twice about taking a dip.

3. MAGNETIC HILL

Pekina-Blackrock Road, Pekina

Magnetic Hill, Pekina.

Thrill seekers driving north of Adelaide towards Orroroo should plan a pit stop to attempt the ultimate mind-bending experience.

It’s said that at Magnetic Hill your car will roll up the hill, not down. Simply turn off the engine, place the car in neutral and take your foot off the brake, then watch the magic (or mystery) unveil.

Spoiler alert – it’s an optical illusion – the layout of hills around you make it look like the slight downhill slope is actually uphill.

4. GREENLY BEACH

Greenly Beach Road, Coulta, Eyre Peninsula

The feeling of discovering an oasis on a warm @southaustralia day? Priceless! 🏝️

Captured here perfectly by IG/sarahbyden, you'll find this spot at #GreenlyBeach on the #EyrePeninsula, only an hour from #PortLincoln.#seeaustralia#seesouthaustralia#holidayherethisyearpic.twitter.com/RmDVwiUSFD

— Australia (@Australia) February 19, 2022

Located about an hour away from Port Lincoln is one of the most picturesque beaches in SA where beachgoers swim in the rock pools and surf metre high waves.

With no facilities or shops nearby, this isolated beach is an excellent friendcation destination, where travellers can set up at the nearby campgrounds to watch the sunset at night, or climb Mount Greenly for the above sea level views.

5. ANSTEY HILL RECREATION PARK

Perseverance Road, Tea Tree Gully

For a change of scenery, regular Morialta Falls or Mount Lofty hikers should give some of the 17 trails at Anstey Hill Recreation Park a go.

There are 11 walking or hiking trails and eight fit for mountain biking. There is a path for everyone from the 650m little quarry loop to the 6.2km yellow-tailed loop. Take a breather to spot the birds and animals or stop by Ellis Cottage for a history lesson.

6. ONKAPARINGA RIVER NATIONAL PARK

Port Noarlunga South

Outdoor lovers can plan the ultimate adventure day at Onkaparinga River National Park, by choosing from a range of outdoor activities.

Rock climb the gorge cliffs, or trek the bushland trails and stop by the rock pools heading towards the Punchbowl Lookout.

Visitors can also try canoeing or kayaking around the river, and if a single day is not enough, make a booking at the Pink Gum Campgrounds to explore everything the National Park has to offer.

7. MYPONGA RESERVOIR

Myponga, Fleurieu Peninsula

Just an hour drive south of Adelaide, travellers can find this parklands reserve with scenic panoramic views overlooking the lake.

The no-incline trails and parklands around the lakes are perfect for a stroll or a secluded picnic, while the more adventurous can canoe or kayak their way around the reservoir to explore the 250 hectares of calm waters.

8. BLOWHOLE BEACH

Blowhole Creek Road, Cape Jervis, Fleurieu Peninsula

Drive through Cobbler Hill picnic grounds and soak up the picturesque ocean views and steep valleys as you head to Blowhole beach.

It’s a 2km trek along the breezy Marrano Creek trail to the beach which sits on the edge of Deep Creek Conservation Park.

Enjoy the day swimming or surfing then stay the night at the nearby campground or take a 30 minute drive to Second Valley or Rapid Bay.

9. BLANCHE POINT

Port Willunga

If you’re looking to capture breathtaking, Instagram-worthy pictures the cliff tops at Blanche Point is the place for you.

The desert-like cliffs are situated between Port Willunga and south of Maslin Beach, overlooking the St Vincent Gulf water.

Once you’ve got the shot, stroll down to the beach or take the 10km-return walking trail along the coastline, from Blanche Point to the far-end of Maslin Beach.

10. WAITE CONSERVATION RESERVE

Waite Road, Urrbrae

@explring9to5 posted this gem from the swing at the top

It offers hikers a panoramic view of Adelaide and its surrounds but one of Waite Conservation Reserve’s best features is the Insta-famous “Bali” swing, hanging from an ancient eucalyptus tree.

Take the Harold’s Lookout trail for beginners or the McElligot’s Quarry to Netherby Spur Loop for more experienced hikers.

Or if you’re up for a challenge, embark on the four hour Mount Osmond Explore trail.