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But first, what’s the best way to explore South Australia
When planning your beach adventure in South Australia, hiring a campervan is an easy choice. A camper provides you with the freedom to travel at your own pace –allowing you to visit multiple beaches and coastal towns without being tied to a fixed itinerary. Plus, with a campervan, you can enjoy the convenience of having your accommodation and transportation in one. Giving you the flexibility to explore different regions and discover hidden gems along the way. So, grab your campervan from Britz and get ready to set off on an unforgettable journey through South Australia's best beaches.
Image: SATC Media Gallery
Top 10 beaches in South Australia
While there are so many things to see and do in South Australia, exploring the beaches is easily one of the best things to do on a South Australia road trip. Let’s explore the top 10 beaches in South Australia to check out on your upcoming campervan trip.
Glenelg Beach
Glenelg Beach is a coastal gem in South Australia located just 10 km south of Adelaide CDB. Its beautiful white sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere make it a favourite destination for locals and tourists alike. The beach offers a range of activities, from swimming and sunbathing to beach volleyball and water sports. If that wasn’t enough, the lively Glenelg Jetty Road, just off the foreshore, is lined with cafes, restaurants, boutique shops, and entertainment options, and is the perfect place to explore after a day on the beach. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, indulge in delicious ice cream, or hop on the historic tram that connects Glenelg to the heart of Adelaide.
Semaphore Beach
Located 30 minutes northwest of Adelaide CBD, Semaphore Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand that spans as far as the eye can see. Its long shoreline, gentle waves, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a popular choice for families. In addition, the beach provides ample space for picnics, beach games, and sunbathing – making it ideal for a relaxed day by the sea. For a bird's-eye view of the coast, climb the Semaphore Time Ball Tower. Here you can soak up the panoramic views of the beach and surrounding areas. Semaphore Jetty also offers a picturesque spot to cast a line and try your luck to catch dinner. However, if you prefer a little more certainty with your meal, Semaphore Road is the perfect spot close by to grab a bite to eat or do a little shopping. Adjacent to the beach, this strip is bustling with charming cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, adding to the vibrant coastal experience and plenty of options for an easy dinner.
Maslin Beach
Nestled at the gateway of the Fleurieu Peninsula and only 40 minutes from Adelaide, Maslin Beach is renowned for its natural beauty and its unique status as Australia's first official nude beach. If that isn’t your thing – don’t be alarmed – the beach is divided into sections, with the southern section designated as a clothing-optional area, while the rest of the beach offers your standard Australian beach experience (clothing mandatory).
Beyond its freedom-based fame, Maslin Beach is renowned for its stunning rugged cliffs, soft sands, and crystal-clear waters. Take a walk along the cliff tops and admire the panoramic views of the coastline or bask in the sun on the sandy shores. The beach is also a haven for wildlife, including dolphins and sea eagles. Don’t forget your diving gear or snorkel, Maslin Beach is home to multiple shipwrecks with a stunning display of marine life, including the impressive Leafy Seadragon.
Long Beach
Long Beach is a gorgeous stretch of shoreline situated in the charming coastal town of Robe on the Limestone Coast, just three and a half hours south of Adelaide on the way to Mount Gambier. that stretches for kilometres. The beach is characterized by its long white sandy shore, backed by gently rolling dunes and bordered by classic blue South Australian waters. Whether you're a beachcomber, swimmer, or surfer, Long Beach is the perfect pit stop on a South Australia road trip. Close by is the town of Robe, with its historic charm and coastal ambience, which complements the beach perfectly. After a day of beach activities, explore the town's boutiques, galleries, and cafes. And don’t miss the chance to see the Robe's iconic red and white Obelisk, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the ocean. This unique tower provides a fantastic vantage point to capture breathtaking coastal views.
Moana Beach
Nestled in the picturesque McLaren Vale wine region, Moana Beach offers a serene blend of natural beauty and coastal charm. The beach is renowned for its sandy coastline, rugged dunes, and rolling waves, making it a haven for surfers and anyone seeking a peaceful day in the sun. After a day of fun in the sun, this beach is within easy reach of Moana Sands Conservation Park for bushwalking and birdwatching, as well as the region's famous vineyards and cellar doors for an afternoon of wine tasting.
Image: SATC Media Gallery
Port Noarlunga Beach
In the coastal suburb of Port Noarlunga, 30 minutes south of Adelaide, is the hidden gem of Port Noarlunga Beach. This beach is best known for its natural reef, which runs parallel to the shore, creating a calm lagoon-like environment. This makes it an ideal spot for snorkelling and diving to explore this underwater world teeming with marine life. For those who prefer to stay above the water, the sandy shores provide ample space for sunbathing and beach activities. The Port Noarlunga Jetty is a popular spot for fishing, providing a tranquil setting to cast a line and enjoy the coastal scenery. The town of Port Noarlunga also offers a range of cafes, restaurants, and beachfront accommodations, making it an idyllic destination to explore by campervan.
West Beach
Just minutes from Adelaide's city centre, West Beach offers a relaxing beach experience allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds—the beach and the city. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely walks along the coast. It's a popular spot for families, with plenty of space to set up a beach umbrella, build sandcastles, and enjoy day-long beachside picnics. When you are finished exploring the beach, Henley Square is a vibrant precinct nearby with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars. This is the perfect spot to relax with a refreshing drink or indulge in a delicious meal while overlooking the ocean.
Aldinga Beach
Located on the fringe of the stunning Fleurieu Peninsula, Aldinga Beach is a paradise for nature lovers and beachgoers alike. Its stretch of sandy coastline, bordered by rugged cliffs, offers a dramatic and picturesque setting. One of the unique features of Aldinga Beach is the sand is fine and hard, giving the ability for off-road cars to drive onto the sand (permit required) and make their way all the way down to Sellicks Beach. The beach is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and fishing, with its clear waters and abundant marine life. Explore the tidal rock pools and discover fascinating creatures or take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, taking in the breathtaking views.
Top Tip: Even though you will see many cars on the sand, Britz campers are not designed to be off-road and must remain parked in one of the stunning car parks while you wander the beach on foot.
Vivonne Bay
Situated on Kangaroo Island, only a short ferry ride from Adelaide, Vivonne Bay is often hailed as one of Australia's most beautiful beaches. Its pristine white sand, clear waters, and untouched natural surroundings create a postcard-perfect setting. Vivonne Bay offers an array of activities for beach lovers, including swimming, surfing, and beachcombing. Sunbathe on the soft sands, take a dip in the refreshing waters, or simply immerse yourself in the serenity and tranquillity of this unspoiled paradise. With its stunning natural beauty and pristine shoreline, Vivonne Bay is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a secluded, wild beach experience.
Port Elliot Beach
Tucked away on the south entrance to the Fleurieu Peninsula, Port Elliot Beach is another hidden gem that combines natural beauty with the charm of a sleepy coastal town. The beach boasts a beautiful shoreline, fringed by rugged cliffs and rock formations, creating a stunning backdrop for beach activities and exploring. With its relatively calm waters and gentle waves, Port Elliot Beach is also a great spot for swimming, while the nearby rocky shores offer opportunities for beachcombing and exploring tidal pools teeming with marine life. When you’re done, you can also cruise through the laid-back atmosphere town of Port Elliot, with its variety of cafes, boutiques, and antique stores to discover.
Image: SATC Media Gallery
Where to stay in South Australia
Staying in a campervan while exploring South Australia's beaches offers the flexibility and freedom to explore multiple beaches, all while staying close to the coast and enjoying breathtaking views. Here are three campgrounds in South Australia to add to your itinerary for your upcoming beachside adventure:
Big 4 West Beach Parks
Located near Glenelg Beach, Big 4 West Beach is a family-friendly holiday park that provides great powered sites suitable for campervans. Its proximity to Glenelg Beach allows for easy access to the vibrant coastal attractions. The park also offers excellent amenities, including:
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A heated lagoon-style swimming pool
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A fully equipped camp kitchen
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Gym and games room
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A sensory room (great for kids to unwind after a busy day out!)
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Go-karts and movie nights
Price: Powered campervan sites start at $45 a night.
Discovery Parks - Adelaide Beachfront
Tucked away in Semaphore, Discovery Parks Adelaide Beachfront holiday park offers direct access to the beach. Enjoy the convenience of beachside living and explore the attractions of Semaphore Beach and its lively surroundings. It features powered sites perfect for campervans, along with a host of great amenities, including:
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A swimming pool
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Barbecues
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A jumping pillow
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WiFi
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An on-site store/kiosk
Price: Powered campervan sites start at $49 a night.
Marion Holiday Park
Located in Adelaide's southern suburbs, Marion Holiday Park offers a convenient base for exploring the region's beautiful beaches. Its central location provides easy access to numerous local beaches, allowing you to discover the diverse beauty of South Australia's beaches. The park offers spacious powered sites for campervans, as well as top facilities, including:
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Barbecue areas
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Mini Golf
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A 45-metre lagoon pool
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Waterpark
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A beer garden and outdoor cinema
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Tennis court and games room
Price: Powered campervan site starts at $50 a night.
Ready for your next adventure?
With so many amazing beaches to check out, South Australia is a campervan dream and a must-visit campervan destination. If you are ready for your next adventure, hire your Britz campervan online or at your local branch today, embrace the freedom of the open road, and set out on an unforgettable adventure along South Australia's stunning coastline.