We were astounded by the beauty and thriving marine life along the beaches in South Australia.
On our journey we encountered dolphins, seals and giant stingrays amongst other sea life. Not to forget the crystal clear waters and dramatic shore line hugged with tall sandstone cliffs.
We’ve put together a list of some of the Best Beaches in South Australia worth a visit in order of moving up the coast from south to north.
Rapid Bay
A short one and a half-hour drive from Adelaide, Rapid Bay’s old jetty is well known for its snorkelling and diving. The broken-down remains of its old jetty pillars make for a unique underwater experience.
The t-intersection area of the jetty is home to abundant marine life and the famous Leafy Seadragon. To get to the t-intersection you will have to swim from the end of the new jetty, parallel along the old jetty to the end. Make sure you have your fins.
Rapid Bay also has a beautiful beach with turquoise waters and soft sand. The shoreline is breathtaking with the tall cliffs. Look out for the large cave located at the southern end of the beach. There is also a beachside campsite with waterfront views which can get busy.
Second Valley
A twenty-minute drive from Rapid Bay, you will find Second Valley with a cosy beach and two small bays to the left. The beach tends to get crowded on the weekends due to its popularity.
The second tiny bay to the left of the jetty is a great spot for snorkelling with picturesque flora growing in the protected waters. We saw several squids for the first time while snorkelling here which was quite magical.
If you snorkel further left you will find an underwater cave and a few more if you venture further out the coastline. We did it with a Stand Up Paddleboard however which was more convenient.
The cliffside hills of Second Valley are also great for a walk to take in the sprawling views of the cliffs, ocean and valley. The walk can be accessed from the car park on the right or the beach.
Maslin Beach
A beach bum’s paradise, the 3 km long Maslin Beach is one of the prettiest beaches in South Australia. Vivid red-orange coloured sandstone high cliffs set the backdrop for a perfect day in the sun.
There is an optional clothing area on the Southern end of the beach. Skinny dipping in some of the best crystal clear turquoise waters? Sure, why not.
Maslin Beach is located 10 mins from the McLaren Vale wine region (45 mins drive from Adelaide), making it the perfect hub to access the different wineries in the region. McLaren Vale also has an upcoming craft beer scene with some of the best brews in SA.
Read our post on the Best Breweries in McLaren Vale South Australia.,
Sellicks Beach
Ever wanted to drive your 2WD car drive straight onto the beach? Thanks to the hard sand you can do this at Sellicks Beach.
At the southern end of the beach, you will find picturesque cliffs similar to the cliffs at Maslin Beach, but better. Take a leisurely walk to the very end, past the point which allows vehicle access.
This spot is also great for viewing the sunset, with the sun rays turning the cliffs into a bright orange.
Shell Beach & Dolphin Beach
Located in Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, Shell Beach & Dolphin Beach are next to each other separated by a small hill. Shell Beach has been famous on Instagram for its rock pool which is located on the eastern side of the beach. You will need to scramble through some rocks to get there.
Both Shell and Dolphin beach have protected bays which makes these beaches great for swimming and delicate soft sand that slips through your toes.
Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park also has other interest points which include the Cape Spencer Lighthouse, Ethel Wreck Lookout and West Cape Lookout.
Located in the Yorke Peninsula region, a 4-hour drive from Adelaide the national park has several camping opinions for a weekend away.
Read our post on 20 things to do in South Australia.
Almonta Beach & Point Avoid
Think long stretches of sand with empty beaches (but full of wildlife – Kangaroos, emus, birds..) lined with high cliffs, giant rocks and shallow crystal clear waters.
Located in Coffin Bay National Park of the Eyere Peninsula region the drive within the national park is spectacular with breathtaking views of the sun, sky and sea melting together at sunset.
Camping is available at the Yangie Bay Campground within the national park or you can stay at several accommodation options at Coffin Bay which is also known for its Oyster farms.
Donington Beach
A great spot where you may pay a visit by seals and dolphins that are resident to this bay in the Lincoln National park. Grab a snorkel or take to the waters on a stand-up paddleboard.
Donnington beach is also a great palace for relaxing away from the crowds and in the sheltered blue waters on the bay.
Nearby camping options include September Beach & Fishermans Campground for 2WD along with several other options for 4WD. Bookings can be made at the national park website.
Tip: Get the 2 month multiple entry national park pass if you plan on visiting other national parks.-
