Best places to visit in South Australia
From the stunning coastline to the great Outback, the rolling hills to the bustling cities, there’s something to offer every type of holiday-maker in South Australia.
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South Australia is a state of incredible diversity.
From the stunning stretches of pristine coastline to the great expanse of the Outback, the rolling hills and scenic vineyards, charming towns and bustling cities, there’s something to offer every type of holiday-maker, whether you’re travelling within the state or visiting from further afield.
Discover what to do in South Australia
There’s a lot to cover in this great state and it can be a little daunting to know where to start. So here are some of our favourite destinations in South Australia to consider for your next getaway, whether it’s just for a weekend or a longer stay.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN ADELAIDE
It’s one of Australia’s smaller state capitals, but Adelaide is also one of the most exciting to discover.
Adelaide has long outgrown its City of Churches moniker with a thriving arts and cultural scene, exciting restaurants and trendy bars, and a non-stop calendar of festivals and events that have put the South Australian capital on the world stage.
Whether you’re a foodie, culture vulture, history buff, nature lover or thrillseeker, there’s plenty here for you in this vibrant city, with its bustling streets and secret laneways, the nearby Mount Lofty Ranges, and 30 kilometres of magnificent coast.
Adelaide is also the gateway to some of the world’s greatest wine regions, with Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Clare Valley and others all within an hour or two’s drive of the city.
And it’s never a bad time to visit, with each season offering something spectacular, from the autumnal colouring of the Adelaide Hills as the weather gets cooler, and the city gardens in full bloom as spring returns.
While you’re in Adelaide, you might like to check out the scenic Adelaide Hills region and enjoy a traditional German pub meal in the charming town of Hahndorf on a guided tour. Or perhaps spend half a day on a guided tour of the city, learning about its fascinating history and visiting iconic sites such as St Peter’s Cathedral, National Wine Centre and the North Terrace cultural boulevard.
BEST THINGS TO DO ON KANGAROO ISLAND
It had long been one of South Australia’s best-kept secrets but the good word is finally out about Kangaroo Island, just a stone’s throw from the coast.
The ruggedly beautiful island is thriving after the catastrophic 2019-20 bushfires. Wilderness is regenerating, wildlife is in abundance, new tourism experiences have launched and whole new foodie scene has swept the island.
Whether you’re staying locally or on a day trip from the mainland, everything on Kangaroo Island is a must for the itinerary: ticking off Remarkable Rocks, Weirs Cove, Cape du Couedic lighthouse and Admirals Arch on a drive through Flinders Chase National Park; taking in the incredible views from the top of Prospect Hill; a beachside picnic in the tranquil setting of Pennington Bay; and visiting the animal residents at Seal Bay Conservation Park and Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park.
While you’re there, get acquainted with the island’s rugged terrain by hiring a buggy and exploring the scenic Vivonne Bay. For an experience you'll never forget, spend a couple of hours swimming and snorkelling with wild dolphins and seals on a guided tour off the island’s picturesque coast.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN THE BAROSSA VALLEY
Deeply rooted in a rich wine heritage that spans seven generations, there’s a reason Barossa Valley, just outside Adelaide, is renowned as one of Australia’s most beloved wine regions.
Home to some of the best drinking and dining experiences in the world, nestled among breathtaking scenery, the Barossa is the perfect spot for a weekend adventure.
There is a long list of renowned wineries and cellar doors to keep you occupied, as well as an exciting food scene that celebrates local produce, and plenty of experiences you’ll never forget.
To top it all off, the region provides an incredibly gorgeous setting for a getaway, boasting scenic vineyards and farmlands, historic villages and rolling hills.
You can’t visit the Barossa Valley without taking in a wine-tasting tour of its magnificent wineries and cellar doors. Or learn the secrets of one of Australia’s most beloved cooks during an intimate cooking demonstration in Maggie Beer’s Farmshop. The seasonal demonstration that features tasting uses fresh produce and products from Maggie’s exclusive range.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PORT LINCOLN
The fishing hub of Port Lincoln on the Eyre Peninsula isn’t just a stunning setting for a beachside South Australian holiday, but its status as the seafood capital of the country promises plenty of incredible food experiences.
Situated on Boston Bay, which is an incredible three times the size of Sydney Harbour, Port Lincoln is surrounded by amazing seafood options, award-winning restaurants, wildlife experiences, wineries and other quaint regional towns.
Outdoorsy holiday-makers will love the opportunities for shark cage diving, swimming with sea lions, scuba diving and windsurf lessons.
Hikers are spoiled for choice with a number of stunning walking trails Lincoln National Park and Coffin Bay National Park.
And everyone will enjoy the incredible views, with Lincoln Cove, Boston Bay, Thorny Passage Marine Park and Whaler’s Way some of the region’s best.
If you’re feeling brave, book a four day, three night cage diving expedition to get (safely) up close and personal with the Great White sharks. For something more relaxed, learn about how oysters are farmed and taste some of the best in the world with local oyster farm tours.
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