The October long weekend occurs at the perfect time of year – the weather is warming up (without the humidity of summer), the vines at wineries are beginning to bloom and the kids are on school holidays (hallelujah). So while the weather is perfect and the roads a relatively traffic free, why not make the most of the extra day off and head to one of these 16 stunning towns or regions in South Australia for the perfect long weekend getaway.
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.
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.
A road trip to remember, the five-hour drive to the Flinders Ranges from Adelaide may seem like a commitment, but the payoff is access to one of Australia’s greatest natural treasures. Rich in Indigenous culture and storytelling with extraordinary landscapes, pitch a tent or hire a cabin and enjoy a renewing break in this wilderness wonderland.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Penneshaw is your first stop when you get off the Kangaroo Island ferry, and it offers a convenient snapshot of some of the best of the island, from wildlife and nature to accommodation with spectacular ocean views, local produce, wineries, a sculpture trail, and a charming beach town atmosphere.
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.
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.
Only 34 kilometres south of Adelaide, Port Noarlunga beach town is an easy escape from the city, offering a beautiful beach, a fishing jetty, a heritage-listed reef, a marine reserve, a national park and many great eating, drinking and shopping options.
Gateway to the Dhilba Guuranda–Innes National Park, including access to one of South Australia’s beautiful, untouched coastlines, sleepy Marion Bay has plenty of appeal, too, with glamping, stargazing, frequent markets, and great local dining.
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.
