28-day itinerary South Australia
“Wander far through spectacular mountain ranges and coastal wonders.”
Welcome to the Ocean & Outback loop of South Australia
There is not much you cannot see or do on this trip. The contrasts of the phenomenal and rugged Flinders Ranges to the unique wildlife of Kangaroo Island will leave you amazed. Enjoy some of the world's best wines in the Adelaide wine region and savour freshly caught seafood on the Eyre Peninsula. The vibrant capital of Adelaide is the perfect base for a trip through South Australia.
*Please scroll to the bottom of the page for a pdf download of the South Australia itinerary
START / END:
Adelaide
TRAVEL TIME:
Year-round (best time to travel is October to May)
LENGTH:
Approximately 4,200 kilometres
DURATION:
28+ Days
VEHICLE:
RedSands Toyota Hilux 4WD camper or Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 4WD.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Nullarbor Plain, Eyre Peninsula, Flinders Ranges, Lake Eyre.
WHERE TO STAY:
Along this route, you will find a variety of privately owned campgrounds and National Park campgrounds. If you prefer fixed accommodation, you can choose between bed and breakfasts, mid-range hotels, beach resorts and award-winning boutique hotels.
PLEASE NOTE:
Some campgrounds can get busy on weekends and during South Australian school holidays and may require booking in advance.
Drive: 100 KM
See: Port Willunga, Myponga Reservoir, Second Valley
Do: Farmers market, kayak, hike, swim
Begin your journey with a refreshing stop in Port Willunga. The Star of Greece is a great place to enjoy a coffee by the seaside while chatting with the friendly locals. If you’re in Port Willunga on a Saturday, don’t miss the Willunga Farmers Market, offering a variety of fresh produce to take on your road trip.
Then, discover the beauty of Myponga Reservoir. You can admire the view from Myponga Lookout, rent a kayak to paddle around the 250 hectares of water, enjoy a stroll through the trails or have a relaxing picnic with native wildlife and over 120 different species of birds.
Venturing further along the coast, the journey there will take you through the rolling hills of the Fleurieu Peninsula. At Second Valley with its coastal cliffs and pristine white sand beach, you’ll find the perfect location for a refreshing swim. Dive enthusiasts can explore Lasseter’s Reef. The reef is home to a diverse range of sea life, including Leafy and Weedy Sea Dragons.
End your first day by camping at Rapid Bay. This beautiful location is nestled between long golden sandy beaches and towering cliffs. If you arrive early, you can enjoy a Rapid Bay sea kayaking tour, have a refreshing swim, or take a stroll along the jetty and try your hand at squid fishing for a delicious ocean-to-plate dinner.
Overnight: camping
Rapid Bay campground, Second Valley Caravan Park
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Second Valley Cottages
Drive: 40 KM PLUS FERRY
See: Penguins, Ocean wildlife, Cape Jervis Lighthouse
Do: Swim with dolphins, Fishing charter, Hike, Penguin tour
If you’re packing up camp and heading to Cape Jervis, don’t miss out on visiting the lookout and lighthouse. The panoramic views are breathtaking and on a clear day, you can even spot Kangaroo Island (also known as Karta Pintingga), your next destination.
To avoid disappointment, booking your ferry tickets to Kangaroo Island in advance is essential. It’s particularly important to plan ahead during the summer months, as ferries tend to book out quickly. A return ferry ticket for two adults and one RedSands Camper will cost approximately $460. We recommend calling SeaLink Reservations to make the booking.
Kangaroo Island is larger than most people expect and offers a variety of activities for adventure seekers. We recommend a minimum of two nights on the island. The eastern side is a great place to start exploring. Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari offer experiences such as swimming with wild dolphins and seals if you take a 75- minute ocean safari, or opt for a fishing charter via Emu Bay Fishing Charters.
The eastern side also offers a range of hikes, including Prospect Hill, Fish Cannery Historic Hike, Kangaroo Island Sculptural Trail, and the Wallaby Track. Join the Penneshaw Penguin Centre night tour to learn about Kangaroo Island’s cutest inhabitants.
End the day with a wine tasting and local produce platter at Dudley Wines’ clifftop cellar door overlooking Cuttlefish Bay.
Overnight: camping
Antechamber Bay campground, Chapman River campground
Drive: VARIES
See: SEALS, LITTLE SAHARA, ADMIRALS ARCH
Do: Quadbike, Bike tour, Sandboard, Taste
Today, head to the western side of Kangaroo Island. This region is rich with raw coastline, stunning beaches, and the awe-inspiring sand dunes of the Little Sahara. The road towards the south-west takes you past False Cape Wines and Kangaroo Island Living Honey, where you can sample the local produce.
Further down the road, there are plenty of exciting activities to try, such as quad biking, fat bike tours, and sand-boarding on the Little Sahara sand dunes. These activities are perfect for the whole family to enjoy.
If you’re looking for a more immersive experience with nature, Flinders Chase National Park is located at the far western side of the island. The park offers hiking trails for all levels, and one of the most popular attractions is Admirals Arch. The National Parks and Wildlife Services of South Australia do an excellent job of preserving the natural environment and educating visitors. You can even join one of their scheduled tours by purchasing a “KI Tour Pass.” For more information, visit https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/.
For those who want to get up close and personal with the local wildlife, Raptor Domain and Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary both offer thrilling and educational experiences for the whole family.
As the sun sets over the native bushland, you can settle in for the night and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature at its best.
Overnight: camping
West Bay campground, Harvey Return campground
Drive: 50 KM plus ferry
See: Kangaroos, Waterfalls, Birdlife
Do: Hike, Explore, Relax
Before saying farewell to Kangaroo Island, you have time for one last island sunrise, a peaceful nature walk, and a chance to witness the local wildlife. Then you will make your way back to Penneshaw to catch the ferry.
Once you are back on the mainland, you can explore the back roads of the former plantation forestry to reach Deep Creek National Park.
If you enjoy hiking, Deep Creek National Park is the perfect destination for you. Part of the renowned Heysen Trail, you can explore the stunning gorges, captivating waterfalls, and breathtaking coastal views along the 1,200 kms trail from this park. Hiking routes range from 1.5 kms to 11 kms, offering something for hikers of all levels.
Looking for a peaceful getaway in nature? We highly recommend camping at the beautiful Tapanappa campground. Set up your camp and immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the comforts of your camper. Make sure to check out the Tapanappa Lookout, which offers stunning views of the coastline and surroundings.
Overnight: camping
Tapanappa campground, Trig campground
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Southern Ocean Retreats
Drive: 80 KM
See: Encounter Bay, Victor Harbour, Wineries
Do: Pick, Eat, Drink
Start your day by taking the scenic route via the historic Encounter Bay and Victor Harbour. This will allow you to top up on essentials or grab a coffee at one of the local cafés.
As you travel through Peramangk Country, you’ll eventually come across Harvest the Fleurieu – a family-owned business that provides local produce. This includes a strawberry farm (where you can pick your own strawberries), market hall and café.
Our destination today is McLaren Vale. This region marks the southern most point of the Epicurean Way which links the four iconic wine regions of South Australia: McLaren Vale (Shiraz), Adelaide Hills (Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay), Barossa Valley (Shiraz, Fortified Wines) and Clare Valley (Riesling).
After a few nights of camp cooking, why not treat yourself to a lovely dinner at one of the many wineries? A few of our favourites: Organic and Biodynamic Winery, Gemtree Wines, Down the Rabbit Hole or the iconic Chalk Hill.
If you enjoy being surrounded by nature, Chookarloo campground in the Mount Lofty Ranges and Pink Gum campground in Onkaparinga National Park are great options. These campgrounds offer a peaceful setting amidst the forest and hills, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
Overnight: camping
Pink Gum campground, Chookarloo campground (closed December to March), McLaren Vale Lakeside Caravan Park (G’day Parks)
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Shiloh Hills Park Accommodation
Drive: 50 KM
See: Forests, Wildlife
Do: Art galleries, Eat, Drink
Winding your way north along the Epicurean Way through the Adelaide Hills, you will follow ancient paths and more recent trade routes of artisan food producers from all around the world.
Remember to pack a picnic basket and make a few stops along the way to gather local artisan produce or pick fresh strawberries directly from the paddock at Beerenberg. You can then enjoy your picnic at scenic spots like Belair National Park or Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary. If you’re up for some outdoor adventure, there are numerous hiking trails to explore in the Adelaide Hills. Alternatively, you can immerse yourself in art and culture by visiting galleries such as Hans Heysen’s ‘The Cedars’ or the UKARIA Cultural Centre.
Whichever path you find yourself meandering today, all roads lead to Hahndorf: a quaint village, rich in culture and activities for the whole family. One could spend hours wandering the streets of Hahndorf, in and out of shops and galleries. There is everything, including the butcher, a baker, and a candlestick maker, surrounded by German-style architecture from its more recent history.
It wouldn’t be a trip to Hahndorf without a visit to the iconic German breweries, distilleries or one of the many wineries.
Overnight: camping
Hahndorf Resort, Mt Barker Caravan and Tourist Park
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Hahndorf Resort, The Studios by Haus
Drive: 160 KM
See: Megafauna, fossils, wildflowers
Do: Wine tour, hiking, playpark
Today you’ll have the opportunity to embark on your own adventure as you explore the picturesque Clare Valley.
South Australians are known for their exceptional winemaking skills. With 18 regions, each filled with historic estates and some of the country’s oldest vines, South Australia produces over 820 million bottles every year.
Continuing along the Epicurean Way through to the Clare Valley will allow you to sample everything from boutique cellar doors right through to larger properties that offer tours, restaurants and tasting rooms.
The Clare Valley provides fun for the whole family with walking trails and outdoor swimming pools. You can also zoom on the flying fox and climb the ropes course at Richardson Park Playspace or explore Burra Monster Mine to discover the unique underground life. Alternatively, explore the megafauna fossils at Redbank Conservation Park or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque “Riesling Trail” by renting a bike in Clare.
Overnight: camping
Clare Caravan and Holiday Park (Discovery Parks), Red Banks Conservation Park campgrounds
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Clare Caravan and Holiday Park, Neagles Retreat Villas
Drive: 220 KM
See: Emus, kangaroos, movie scenes, endemic species
Do: Hike, taste
As you leave Adelaide and the surrounds and transition into the rugged outback, it is important to make sure to top up on food, fuel, water, and other essential supplies. Stock up on these items in Clare, as supplies become scarcer and more basic as you move further into the outback.
Following the country roads through small heritage towns rich in settler history, a great stop along the way to stretch the legs is Alligator Gorge. Situated in Mount Remarkable National Park, there is a range of walking trails to see wildlife, wildflowers, and wild country.
As you explore the Australian Outback, keep an eye out for the emu, the country’s largest native bird. These magnificent birds, which can stand up to 2 meters tall, have a special relationship with the quondong. Also called the bush peach, quondong is a fruit which is a rich source of vitamin C and has been a crucial food source for native animals, indigenous Australians, and early settlers.
The next stop is Quorn, which is renowned for its historic railroad that runs through the picturesque ranges and has been featured in various Australian movies. While you’re there, take a break and visit the Pichi Richi Railway museum or try out some delicious bush food like the quandong jam at a local café.
Overnight: camping
Warren Gorge
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Sunset Ridge Accommodation, The Quorn-er House
Drive: 150 KM
See: Art galleries, Rugged vistas, Outback wildlife
Do: Cultural tours, Scenic flights, Hike, Mountain bike
As you journey further down the track, you’ll soon discover the awe-inspiring beauty of the Flinders Ranges. The rugged and ancient peaks, paired with the rocky gorges, form some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. This special place is rich in indigenous history and boasts a diverse array of wildlife.
Hawker is renowned for being the home of internationally acclaimed artist, Jeff Morgan. The Jeff Morgan Gallery is an iconic location that showcases some of Morgan’s incredible works of art, which are inspired by the surrounding landscapes. Additionally, you can indulge in the best cup of coffee and bites to eat in the region from the Flinders Food Co, while strolling the streets of this heritage-rich town.
If you’re seeking thrilling hiking adventures, Wilpena Pound is the perfect base for you. You can embark on a cultural tour to exclusive locations like Sacred Canyon or Arkaroo Rock.
Alternatively, you can enjoy a mesmerizing sunset at Razorback Lookout or Stokes Hill Lookout. For those who prefer driving to hiking, Ikara (Flinders Ranges National Park) offers winding roads through the ranges that lead to spectacular vistas like Moralana Scenic Drive. The park, which name means “meeting place,” is famous for its diverse wildlife, including the majestic Wedgetail Eagle – Australia’s largest bird of prey.
Overnight: camping
Wilpena Pound Resort
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Rawnsley Park Station, Wilpena Pound Resort
Drive: 210 KM
See: Endangered animals, rugged ranges, ancient gorges
Do: Cultural immersion, hike
As you venture north this morning, make sure not to miss Blinman. In Blinman, you can take an interactive historical tour through an old underground copper mine and immerse yourself in the rich culture and incredible stories of survival.
While you’re there, be sure to visit the Wadna Shop, run by friendly locals Kristian and Gaby. They offer cultural tours where you can discover hidden ancient petroglyphs and art, explore the art gallery and shop filled with a vibrant display of colour and culture, or watch Kristian carve tools from nature, a skill passed down through many generations.
Just a short distance away lies Vulkathunha – Gammon Ranges National Park, which is connected to the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary. Both areas showcase the rugged beauty of the Flinders Ranges and offer incredible walking trails to hidden water holes. Our favourite trails are the Bararranna Gorge Trail and the Italowie Gorge Hike, which takes you past Mount McKinley Spring.
This pristine desert area is home to many rare and endangered plants and animals and features the stark wildness of Lake Frome. Make sure to visit the Ochre Wall and Station Lookout for a breathtaking sunset vista.
Overnight: camping
Arkaroola Wildlife Sanctuary, Wywhyana Creek Camping Area
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Arkaroola Wildlife Sanctuary
Drive: 250 KM
See: Outback Australia, birdwatch, star gaze
Do: Explore Relax
Today you are heading towards Australia’s largest salt lake, Lake Eyre. You will embark on an incredible journey through Australia’s vast and arid outback, following the historic trade pathways and explorer routes. As you leave behind the rugged peaks of the Flinders Ranges, you’ll witness captivating landscapes, including red sand dunes and majestic mesas that serve as reminders of the region’s rich geological history.
The incredible landscape that surrounds Lake Eyre, is as rich in wildlife as it is in wild adventure. When the rains fill the lake, it transforms into a vibrant ecosystem, attracting thousands of bird species.
After passing through Leigh Creek, you’ll reach the charming town of Marree, which marks the beginning of the famous Oodnadatta Track. If you’re looking to stop for the day, there are camping options and some services available. For those who want to explore a bit further toward Lake Eyre, the track offers plenty of interesting outback sights such as the Mutonia Sculptural Park, the enormous Marree Man geoglyph, and the historical Curdimurka Railway Siding.
Overnight: camping
Marree Hotel, Muloorina Station Camp
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Marree Hotel
Drive: 210 KM
See: Lake Eyre
Do: Scenic flights, Swim in spring fed hot tubs
Today you will set out along the Oodnadatta Track, skirting the edges of Lake Eyre. Coward Springs offers the chance to take a swim or a bath, in the spring-fed hot tubs.
In William Creek, you’ll find a small shop and fuel station where you can pick up any essentials you may need. While you’re there, make sure to visit the William Creek Pub, a quirky outback pub built from old Gahn Railway sleepers, which is definitely worth a stop.
Additionally, you have the option to take scenic flights over Lake Eyre for a breathtaking aerial view.
For somewhere to camp tonight, we highly recommend taking a turn off the Oodnadatta Track towards Halligan Bay Point campground. This campground is situated right on the edge of the lake and offers an amazing view of the lake.
Overnight: camping
Halligan Bay Point campground
Overnight: fixed accommodation
William Creek Hotel
Drive: 200 KM
See: Outback history
Do: Explore, Learn, Fly
The Oodnadatta Track will take you to the town after which it was named, offering an authentic Aussie experience. The Pink Roadhouse is a must-visit for their famous Oodnadatta Burger. For those feeling adventurous, they also serve up kangaroo and camel sausages.
Visit the Oodnadatta Railway Museum to discover the fascinating stories behind the Arabana and Arrernte people, the European explorers who ventured into the heart of Australia, the famous Ghan Railway line, and the wild camels that roam the country today.
If the desert sun is starting to melt the family, take a refreshing swim in the Railway Dam or enjoy the local caravan park and hotel’s swimming pools. Whatever your interests, Oodnadatta is a fantastic place to experience the outback and learn about the region’s rich history.
Overnight: camping
Pink Roadhouse
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Transcontinental Hotel
Drive: 200 KM
See: Geological wonders, Working opal mines, Wildlife
Do: Hike, Tour, Explore, Immerse
Today, you’ll find yourself at a crossroads, faced with an exciting decision. Will you head south or extend your adventure for another three weeks to conquer the Oodnadatta Track and reach Central Australia? If you choose to go north, you’ll embark on an incredible journey into the wild landscapes of the Northern Territory. Along the way, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks such as Uluru, Kings Canyon, and the renowned Alice Springs. Dive into the rich heritage of the ancient Yeperenye Ranges, where you can explore waterfalls, gorges, and experience the captivating creation stories of the region. These natural wonders stand in stark contrast to the vibrant red deserts of Central Australia.
Heading south you will divert from the Oodnadatta Track towards Coober Pedy, an incredibly scenic Opal town. If you take a small detour just out of town, you will find yourself at the Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, an incredible scenic range that showcases all the shades of the desert.
These two iconic locations are fringed by the dingo fence, a 5,300km fence that was designed to stretch across 3 states to protect the early pastoralists’ sheep from the native dogs. Surrounded by salt plains and red desert, these destinations will inspire wonder and as such have been the site for many movies including the Mad Max movie series.
Coober Pedy is full of character and fun activities for the whole family from opal mine tours to exploring underground homes, “noodling” for your own opals or cuddling a joey kangaroo at Josephine’s Gallery. Wrap up your day with an outback pizza and a wine at John’s Pizza Bar or get takeaways and watch the desert sunset transform into the clearest milky way views from just outside town.
Overnight: camping
Opal Inn Caravan Park, Old Timers Mine
Overnight: fixed accommodation
The Comfort Inn
Drive: VARIES
See: Galleries, Mines, Desert Life
Do: Noodling, Swimming, Relaxing
Coober Pedy is a fantastic place to relax by the pool for a day or delve deeper into the town’s rich history. The Umoona Opal Mine and the Old Timers Mine both offer underground tours and interactive experiences to see and understand how opal is formed and mined.
Today, around 60% of Coober Pedy’s 3,500 locals live underground. Fayes Underground home and the Underground Nest and Dugout of Crocodile Harry offer a unique insight into the ‘dugout’ lifestyle. Additionally, there are a number of underground churches in the area that are worth visiting.
If you have a newfound love for Opals after visiting Coober Pedy, the main street is lined with opportunities to shop for your very own piece of opal jewellery to take home with you.
Keep in mind that there no opal shop is ‘better’ than the other. As each offers a distinctive style, it’s important to take your time to explore the shops and select a piece that suits your personal style.
Overnight: camping
Opal Inn Caravan Park, Old Timers Mine
Overnight: fixed accommodation
The Comfort Inn
Drive: 530 KM
See: Outback Australia
Do: The Australian Outback road trip
Heading through to the Gawler Ranges today, you will experience the rugged vastness of the Australian outback: driving across plains where the horizon melts into the sky, through landforms that seemingly evolve out of nowhere and stopping in towns where the population of wildlife outweighs the humans. It is truly inspiring to think settlers wandered these plains in search of their piece of country for a better life.
As you journey toward Barngarla country, you’ll come across a breathtaking range formed by volcanic eruptions over 1.5 billion years ago. The Gawler Ranges National Park holds many hidden treasures, including stunning rocky gorges, outcrops, grassy plains and serene waterholes.
The Gawler Ranges offer stunning scenery for both photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. You can take a bush walk and enjoy the stunning views of the ancient landscape or get lost in fields of wildflowers during the spring season.
Overnight: camping
Yandinga campground
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Pondanna Outstation
Drive: VARIES
See: Wildlife, wildflowers, wild scenery
Do: Hiking 4×4 tracks
After a long day of driving, it’s time to relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings. The Gawler Ranges offer a variety of hiking trails, some up to 14km long, that will excite and tire the kids. You can also explore 4WD tracks that lead to amazing places.
Make sure to visit the Organ Pipes and check out the Hiltaba Hike, Shearers Quarters, and Pretty Point Hike. Along these trails, you might encounter the local “Thorny Devil” or spot a kangaroo or two. Look up and you might see Wedge-Tailed Eagles soaring through the sky. Don’t miss the gardens of Sturt’s Desert Pea that add a splash of colour to the rolling hills.
Overnight: camping
Yandinga campground
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Pondanna Outstation
Drive: 170 KM
See: Sealions, dolphins, oyster farms
Do: Wildlife spotting, eat, drink
Transition from outback to ocean as you move to the Eyre Peninsula, a place where abundant ocean wildlife, excellent wines, and farm-fresh food await your arrival.
As you reach Streaky Bay, you’ll immediately feel a sense of relaxation, fully embracing the holiday atmosphere in this serene seaside town with its shimmering beaches and refreshing sea breeze.
Streaky Bay is surrounded by a multitude of incredible beaches that are easily accessible by foot. Enjoy the delicious fresh produce at local restaurants and browse through charming local shops. Don’t miss the chance to see a replica of a 5-meter-long Great White Shark that was caught by a local fisherman just off the coast. Afterwards, head down to the jetty for a refreshing swim.
Overnight: camping
Streaky Bay Foreshore (Discovery Parks), Coodlie Park Farm Stay
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Streaky Bay Motel and Villas, Perlubie Sea
Drive: VARIES
See: Sealions Dolphins Oyster farms
Do: Swim Snorkel Bushwalk
Spending two nights in Streaky Bay will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the area. You might consider taking surfing lessons at Sceale Bay, simply relaxing on the beach, visiting the nearby Sealion colonies at Point Labatt, snorkelling at Tyringa Beach, or joining Baird Bay Eco Tours for an unforgettable experience of swimming with dolphins and sea lion pups.
Make sure to include a visit to Venus Bay, where you’ll discover equally stunning beaches, captivating walks along limestone cliffs, and ancient petrified forests. For a taste of local flavour, make a stop at the Port Kenny Pub or venture further west to Smokey Bay for a delightful treat of the freshest oysters in the region.
Overnight: camping
Streaky Bay Foreshore (Discovery Parks), Coodlie Park Farm Stay
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Streaky Bay Motel and Villas, Perlubie Sea
Drive: 270 KM
See: Limestone caves, sand dunes, ocean vistas
Do: Coastal walks, Sandboard, Explore caves
Discover the captivating coastal route as you head southeast towards Coffin Bay. Along the way, make sure to visit the impressive Talia Caves. These ocean-carved limestone cliffs offer an opportunity to explore their intriguing caves. Witness the natural power of the blowholes and be on the lookout for the opportunity to catch sight of the magnificent whales in the vast Southern Ocean.
Continuing along the coast, you’ll reach the charming town of Elliston, where a delightful bakery awaits. Treat yourself to a delicious pie and a comforting cup of coffee. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Elliston Coastal Trail, which showcases local history and features fascinating sculptures by talented local artists.
As you venture between Elliston and Coffin Bay, look out for the brown signs that mark lookout points, scenic beaches, coastal walks, and historical landmarks. Take time to explore, slow down and soak in the scenery.
Coffin Bay National Park is a stunning park that can be accessed by 4WD vehicles. It offers remote coastal landscapes with sparkling turquoise waters. The park’s seclusion makes it a sanctuary for wildlife and a haven for bird watchers. The stunning stretch of coastline offers so much to explore that one could easily spend another day in this magnificent part of the world.
A tour of the local Oyster farm is a must, and the ‘Experience Coffin Bay’ tour will leave you hungry for more. You’ll have the opportunity to pluck your own oysters straight from the lines and enjoy them whilst the sun sets over the ocean.
Overnight: camping
Coffin Bay (Discovery Parks), Black Springs campground
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Coffin Bay (Discovery Parks)
Drive: 50 KM
See: Koalas, wombats, great white sharks
Do: Eat, Drink, Explore
After a leisurely drive, you may feel inclined to indulge in a little extra rest and wake up to the soothing sounds of the waves at the picturesque Coffin Bay National Park. Today’s journey will eventually lead you to Port Lincoln, where you’ll find all the conveniences you need, including two major supermarkets, pharmacies, and a variety of shops to cater to your needs.
Port Lincoln is renowned for its thrilling shark-diving experiences. You can also immerse yourself in the culinary delights of the region by taking a seafood cooking masterclass featuring fresh crayfish. If you happen to visit during the annual Tunarama Festival, don’t miss the opportunity to participate in the exciting tuna tossing event. For those seeking a more serene experience, the National Park offers a chance to connect with nature at a leisurely pace.
Make sure to include a visit to Glen Forrest Tourist Park in your itinerary, especially if you’re traveling with family. The kids will have a blast patting kangaroos and wombats, engaging in mini golf games, or riding the Segways. Meanwhile, the adults can enjoy a local wine tasting or simply unwind at the cozy on-site café.
Overnight: camping
Memory Cove Wilderness Protection Area, Mikkira Station
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Port Lincoln Hotel, Port Lincoln Tourist Park
Drive: Varies
See: Koalas, wombats, great white sharks
Do: Eat, Drink, Explore
Embarking on a scenic drive to Whalers Way, you’ll pass by Mikkira Station, a privately-owned wildlife and Koala sanctuary. Here, you can observe these adorable creatures up close and learn fascinating facts about them. Remember, though they may appear cuddly, it’s important to respect their personal space and avoid touching them.
Exploring the magnificent Whalers Way is a must, offering stunning beaches, blowholes, rugged coastlines, and sealion sanctuaries. Keep an eye out for emus, as they call this former whaling station home and occasionally add a dash of excitement by playfully racing cars along the sandy tracks. While camping is allowed in this breathtaking area, it’s essential to make prior arrangements with the Visitors Centre.
The history of Barngarla Country is as rich as its diverse flora and fauna. While returning to Port Lincoln, take the opportunity to explore Lincoln National Park, where you’ll find trails suitable for hikers of all levels.
Overnight: camping
Memory Cove Wilderness Protection Area, Mikkira Station
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Port Lincoln Hotel, Port Lincoln Tourist Park
Drive: 180 KM plus ferry
See: Beaches, kangaroos, whales, dolphins
Do: Explore
Heading north along the Eyre Peninsula, you’ll pass charming fishing towns before reaching Lucky Bay, where you can catch a ferry to the Yorkes Peninsula. After a short ferry ride, you’ll arrive in the laid-back coastal town of Wallaroo. Settling into Wallaroo Holiday Park, situated by the beach, feels like the perfect way to unwind.
The park offers great perks, such as animal enclosures, a communal garden, and a café. The true highlight however lies in strolling across the white sandy beach and simply relaxing after setting up camp for the night. If you’re fascinated by history, make sure to visit the Wallaroo Heritage and Nautical Museum, which shares captivating tales of pirates, explorers, and local fishermen.
Capture the iconic sunset photo by taking a walk down the jetty before considering dining options. Wallaroo provides an array of seafood shops and local restaurants catering to various tastes, making it easy to find a delicious dinner without having to cook.
Overnight: camping
Wallaroo Holiday Park, Cape Elizabeth campground
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Wallaroo Holiday Park, Wallaroo Marina Apartments
Drive: 140 KM
See: Penguins, fur seals, whales, dolphins
Do: Beach days, Bushwalks, Cultural tours
Exploring the local gems along the way, like Simms Cove, will lead you to scenic coastal walking tracks where you can fully immerse yourself in the area’s natural beauty.
Alternatively, embarking on lesser-travelled 4WD tracks will unveil secret spots like Barkers Rocks and Burners Beach. Today is a great day for meandering the coastline and allowing your curiosity to guide you. As long as you follow the designated tracks, you will find yourself lost in nature and relaxing on beaches with no one else as far as the eye can see.
For avid walkers, embarking on parts of the 500km Yorke Leisure Trail is an excellent way to experience the pristine environment of the Yorke Peninsula.
Overnight: camping
Point Turton Caravan Park, Camp on the wild side and choose one of the many “Bush Camps”
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Point Turton Caravan Park
Drive: 60 KM
See: Lighthouses, Coastal views, Wild landscapes
Do: Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park
Continuing along the coastline of the Yorke Peninsula, you’ll stumble upon Shell Beach rock pool—a picturesque spot ideal for a refreshing dip when the tide is right. Dolphin Beach, a little further down the coastline, offers a family-friendly alternative where you can spend the day with a picnic, marvelling at the ancient granite boulders that surround the white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
While Goblet Bay Lookout and Westcape Lookout are worth a visit, our top picks along the southern stretch of the Yorke Peninsula include Ethel Wreck Beach Lookout. This spot features a thrilling walk down steep cliffs, and Cape Spencer Lighthouse, which offers easier terrain, incredible views, and one of the peninsula’s most breathtaking sunsets.
Overnight: camping
Marion Bay Bush Camp
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Bayside Glamping’s Tiny House, Seafire Beach House
Drive: 90 KM
See: Tidal Pools, Pink Lakes
Do: Swim, Art trail
As you travel north today through the breathtaking Yorke Peninsula country, you’ll have the opportunity to drive alongside stunning coastlines, take in panoramic views from lookout points, and appreciate the water tower art trail that embellishes the southern coastline.
If you make a detour to Yorketown, you’ll be able to capture that perfect Instagram shot of South Australia’s famous pink lakes. While stopping at the viewing platform, you can learn about the science behind this natural phenomenon and marvel at its beauty.
Edithburgh is a charming seaside town that offers plenty of supplies and activities to enjoy. Taking a picturesque bush walk along the Mosaic Art Trail all the way to the water tower mural is an excellent way to stretch your legs. After your walk, you can cool off in the Edithburgh tidal pools, which are perfect for families looking for a safe place to swim along the coastline. With ample space for a picnic lunch at the pools, it’s an ideal spot to stop for lunch before deciding on a camping spot for the night.
Overnight: camping
Edithburgh Caravan Park, Wattle Point – Bush Camp
Overnight: fixed accommodation
The Klein Pod
Drive: 170 KM
See: Pink lakes, station country, wildlife
Do: Learn, explore
Today, you have Adelaide in sight, and you’ll be driving through Sheep Station country. The area is known for its geological marvels, fascinating stories from history that are stranger than fiction, and is steeped in the rich culture of the Narungga people. Whatever path you choose, it promises to be an exciting adventure.
One of the highlights of Lochiel is its stunning pink lake, which is visible from above and is a well-known South Australian landmark. The viewing platforms and signs make it a convenient location to witness this natural wonder.
The town of Snowtown has a history that’s hard to believe. If you’re a fan of horror, you might be interested in looking up the “Wolf Creek” movie series, some of which was filmed in nearby Quorn. There’s also the infamous tale of “Snowtown,” which is taken from true stories of the area.
Your final stop for the day is Hummocks Station, established in 1851, and is a historical site that provides a glimpse of what life was like on a station. The homestead, constructed from vibrant ironstone, is at the heart of one of South Australia’s pioneering and leading sheep stations. You can take a bushwalk along the creeks, watch for birds and other native animals, or delve into the property’s fascinating history.
Overnight: camping
Hummocks Station
Overnight: fixed accommodation
Hummocks Station
Drive: 160 KM
See: Wildlife
Do: Play, Picnic, Observe
As you head towards the end of your journey, a 2-hour drive awaits you to return to Adelaide. By following the highway, you can enjoy a few more adventures before concluding your trip.
If you enjoy bird watching, the Adelaide International Bird Sanctuary National Park offers beautiful trails to explore and is a great way to end your stay in a RedSands Camper.
St Kilda Adventure Playground just north of Adelaide is a great stop for the younger travellers (or young at heart) to expend some energy. The flying fox and the giant slides will keep everyone occupied for hours. The park is also a great place for one last picnic lunch.