Published on
August 15, 2025
South Australia, occupying the vast southern end of the mainland, offers a unique sense of discovery far from the bustling east coast. Beyond Adelaide lies a treasure trove of dazzling gems, from world-class wineries and vibrant Aboriginal culture to breathtaking mountains and pristine coastlines. If you’re planning an extended weekend getaway, look no further. Here are nine perfect destinations in South Australia that promise an unforgettable trip.
Coober Pedy: The Underground Opal Capital
Deep in the Great Victoria Desert, Coober Pedy is renowned as “Australia’s opal capital.” This town offers a unique underground culture born from its rich mining history.
- What to Do: Discover Aboriginal art and learn about local indigenous history at Josephine’s Gallery, which also rescues orphan kangaroos. Get a hands-on feel for the town’s heritage by touring a century-old mine at the Umoona Opal Mine Museum. For a glimpse of the region’s natural beauty, explore the colourful desert wilderness of Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, home to red kangaroos and echidnas.
- Where to Shop: For beautiful, family-run opal jewelry, visit Opalios.
- Where to Stay: Experience the town’s unique lifestyle with a stay at the Lookout Cave Underground Motel, where you can sleep comfortably inside a sandstone hill.
Flinders Ranges: A Journey Through Geological Time
Witness over 600 million years of geological history in the stunning Flinders Ranges. This region is centered around the magnificent Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park.
- What to Do: Marvel at the natural amphitheater of Wilpena Pound, find tranquility at Bunyeroo Gorge, and explore the historic Old Wilpena Station. The ruggedly scenic Arkaroo Rock, with its access road and bushwalking trails, is also a key attraction.
- Where to Stay: For a rustic experience, book a spot at one of the national park’s campsites. For luxury, Arkaba offers an eco-conscious stay in a vintage 1856 homestead with curated bushwalks and chef-catered picnics.
Watervale: Historic Charm in Clare Valley
Situated along the Horrocks Highway, Watervale is a historic town celebrated for its 19th-century heritage and a growing reputation for high-quality Rieslings.
- What to Do: Hike or bike the Riesling Trail, which can be accessed from the historic Old Watervale Train Station.
- Food and Drink: Enjoy a meal at the Watervale General Store’s Providore cafe, helmed by Chef of the Year Nicola Palmer, or experience the epicurean delights at the historic Watervale Hotel. For wine tasting, visit Crabtree Wines’ cellar door to sample their estate-grown collection.
- Where to Stay: Check into the Stanley Grammar Country House, a luxurious bed-and-breakfast that was once a historic 1863 grammar school.
Angaston: A Taste of the Barossa Valley
Nestled in the acclaimed Barossa Valley, Angaston is the perfect hub for food and wine lovers.
- What to Do: On Saturdays, visit the bustling Barossa Farmers Market for fresh local produce, artisan foods, and zesty olive oils.
- Food and Drink: Indulge in exceptional cheeses at the Barossa Valley Cheese Company, which blends French techniques with local milk. Book a fine dining experience at Vintners Bar & Grill. For a quintessential wine tasting, Lambert Estate is a must-visit, offering hand-crafted single-vineyard wines like Shiraz and Merlot.
- Where to Stay: Retreat to the cozy and charming Country Pleasures Bed & Breakfast for a private cottage experience.
McLaren Vale: Old Vines and Bold Flavours
Just 43 kilometres south of Adelaide, McLaren Vale is an accessible world of old vines and bold wines.
- What to Do: Hike or bike the scenic 38-kilometre Shiraz Trail for a safe and stylish way to tour the vineyards.
- Food and Drink: Visit Australia’s oldest wine family at Hugh Hamilton Wines, sip award-winning vintages at Chalk Hill, or try the organic, single-vineyard wines at Angove Family Winemakers. For an innovative farm-to-table meal, book a table at Coriole’s restaurant.
- Where to Stay: The Vineyard Retreat offers a tranquil oasis with private homes set on a boutique working vineyard.
Kingscote: Gateway to Kangaroo Island
As the largest town on Kangaroo Island, Kingscote is a quaint village that serves as a perfect base for epic adventures.
- What to Do: Head to Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park for bushwalking, biking, and whale watching. Relax on the pristine white sand of Bales Beach. In town, taste local wines at Bay of Shoals and sample premium raw honey and meads from the Kangaroo Island Ligurian Bee Co.
- Where to Stay: For convenient access to local treasures, book a room at Villas on the Bay Kingscote.
Coffin Bay: An Oyster Lover’s Paradise
Located on the Eyre Peninsula, Coffin Bay is famous for having the “best oysters in the world,” but it’s also a delightful coastal escape for everyone.
- What to Do: Explore the spectacular white sand beaches in Coffin Bay National Park, which are perfect for sailing, surfing, and scuba diving. Take a stroll along the eight-kilometre Oyster Walk that connects the main village to Old Oyster Town.
- Food and Drink: For a fully immersive experience, take a tour with Experience Coffin Bay at a working oyster farm. To simply enjoy the fresh harvest with a great view, stop at Oyster HQ.
- Where to Stay: Relax in a home-style waterfront apartment at Almonta Apartments.
Minnipa: Outback Rocks and Ranges
An agricultural community on the Eyre Peninsula, Minnipa offers exceptional outdoor adventures among fascinating rock formations.
- What to Do: After stocking up at the Minnipa Community Store, have a picnic at Tcharkuldu Rock. Drive to Pildappa Rock to see its incredible wave formations and panoramic views. For even more amazing scenery, head to Gawler Ranges National Park to see the ancient Organ Pipes and learn about the local Aboriginal connection to the land.
- Where to Stay: The park offers campsites, or you can find more creature comforts back in town at the Minnipa Hotel.
Streaky Bay: A Relaxing Coastal Retreat
Perched on the western coast of the Eyre Peninsula, Streaky Bay is the ideal beach town to get away from it all.
- What to Do: Walk the pier and go fishing at Streaky Bay Jetty. For big waves and tide-pooling, drive out to Back Beach. Further north, you’ll find another prime surf spot at Hallys Beach and the powerful Whistling Rocks and Blowholes.
- Food and Drink: After a day of exploring, grab a delicious meal at Drift by the jetty.
- Where to Stay: Enjoy a cool and refreshing stay at the Streaky Bay Motel and Villas.
