Escape the city and take advantage of South Australia’s stunning regional towns and regions, plenty of which come alive in Autumn. Here are the most charming South Australia towns and destinations to spend the Easter long weekend.
Luxury lodge or remote camping? Kangaroo Island has it all from pristine white-sand beaches, wild surf, natural wonders and wildlife to local products from olive oil to honey, vinegar, spirits, wine and wellness goods. It’s the best of both worlds.
One of Australia’s oldest wine regions, McLaren Vale is home to more than 80 wineries and excellent places to eat (and drink!). Only 45 minutes’ drive from Adelaide, ditch the car when you get there and opt for two-wheeled transport. The 9km Shiraz Trail takes you past wineries to the beach, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning Fleurieu Peninsula views.
Home to the famous oyster of the same name, stand on a seabed and eat them straight from the source. Once you’ve had your fill, head to one of many pristine beaches or explore the Coffin Bay National Park, Kellidie Conservation Park, or the Thorny Passage Marine Park. At this beach town the best way to end your day is with a local wine paired with a seafood feast overlooking the coast.
The superstar of the Australian wine industry, if you love wine then the Barossa must be on your long weekend bucket list. Make a base in Tanunda, then create a bespoke wine tour from the more than 150 wineries and 80 cellar doors in the region. You won’t go hungry either; the valley has a renowned food culture.
Port Elliot is one of South Australia’s most popular holiday spots. As well as beautiful beaches and a rustic timber jetty, its historic streetscapes are home to charming shops and cafes, including the much-loved Port Elliot Bakery, making it one of the best beach towns in the southern state.
One of South Australia’s favourite getaways, the Adelaide Hills offer pretty landscape views, great food and wine and accommodation ranging from ultra-luxe to (much) less. Berry, cherry, and apple picking is a fun family activity, and a range of festivals, markets and events throughout the year mean it’s always a good time to visit.
On South Australia’s Limestone Coast, Coonawarra is famed for its red soil, “terra rossa,” and the wines that grow in it, particularly cabernet sauvignon. Book a glamping tent in the vines and sip a red under the stars; it’s the perfect way to finish a day of touring.
Located on an isthmus, historic Beachport offers two beautiful bays, extensive coastal dunes, and birdwatching at nearby Lake St George. Stroll down its historic 722-metre jetty (the second longest in the state), or get out your rod to try your hand at catching your dinner. This is a quintessential South Australian beach town.
An easy 90-minute drive to Adelaide and home to an impressive bunch of wineries, it’s easy to see how Clare Valley has become a go-to destination for those looking for a short break. Some of Australia’s most well-known winemakers reside in the region. Think Jim Barry Wines, Taylor’s and Pikes Wines. Riesling is what the Clare Valley excels in. In fact, Clare Valley is considered to be Australia’s riesling capital.
Robe’s spectacular 14km white sand beach is not its only drawcard: Local wineries and breweries, historic buildings, an arresting star-shaped lighthouse, and a rich cultural and arts scene keep South Australian and interstate visitors returning year after year.
From wildlife encounters, cellar doors, restaurants, local produce and plenty of outdoor activities for adventure lovers, there’s something for everyone in South Australia’s Riverland. One of the signature experiences in the Riverland is staying on a houseboat on the Murray River.
A favourite with families and anglers, Victor Harbour boasts beautiful beaches for swimming and spotting whales, dolphins and seals. Take a walking tour, visit the beachside market, and wander the many shops and cafes in the town’s vibrant centre. Don’t miss the horse train to Granite Island to spot penguins or for a picnic with a view.
If you prefer your wineries boutique and small batch, then Eden Valley is for you. One of South Australia’s smaller wine regions is home to contoured vineyards and a handful of cellar doors that sit nestled in the valleys. Don’t go pass up a wine tasting at Fernfield, Brockenchack, Flaxman or Henschke wines to get a taste of the region’s signature varieties, Riesling and Shiraz.
A peaceful hamlet with crystal clear waters, Normanville’s heritage-listed dune system is the perfect beach town in South Australia to start exploring the coast or try snorkelling, fishing, or scuba diving on the reef. The HMAS Hobart Memorial Lookout offers spectacular views of the coast, too.
