From the capital city of Adelaide to the remote Flinders Ranges and more, here are the best things to do in South Australia!
South Australia is a vastly underrated state to explore in Australia!
Many international travellers opt for the popular East Coast states such as Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. Alternatively, beach lovers may head west for the gorgeous areas of Perth, Esperance, and the Ningaloo Coast.
Travellers looking for vast, remote deserts may head to the Northern Territory to explore Uluru.
But many forget that South Australia has it all!
The capital city of South Australia offers a cosmopolitan energy, incredible food and wine, and plenty of cultural attractions.
Outside Adelaide, you can find mountains, deserts, islands, beaches, and epic coastal drives in South Australia. Head to the Fleurieu Peninsula for wineries and beaches, the Limestone Coast for cool islands and marine life, or the Outback for rugged mountains and deserts.
From the idyllic countryside of the Clare Valley, to the vineyards of the Barossa Valley, to the dramatic cliffs of Wilpena Pound in the Flinders Ranges, the land in South Australia is varied and captivating. You’ll never run out of things to do!
Plan more of your trip with our complete Australia travel guide!
What is South Australia best known for?
South Australia is best known for its world-famous wine regions, cultural festivals, and diverse, rugged, breathtaking natural beauty.
The Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, and McLaren Vale are some Australia’s finest wine countries, and all are easily located within a quick day trip from Adelaide.
Adelaide is a magnificent city renowned for its festivals, including the Adelaide Fringe and WOMADelaide, making it a hub for arts and entertainment.
Outside of wine and culture, South Australia also has a range of unique natural wonders that draw in travellers from around the world.
From the underground homes and stark desert of Coober Pedy, to the rugged cliffs of the Great Australian Bight and the Eyre Peninsula, to the beaches and wildlife of Kangaroo Island, there is so much to see in this fabulous state.
South Australia’s rich food and wine culture, combined with its wild landscapes and thriving arts scene, make it a must-visit destination in Australia!
South Australia is full of surprises!
21 Best Things To Do In South Australia
Whether you want lush greenery, arid Outback, or beautiful islands and coastal attractions, there is so much to do in South Australia.
The best way to explore the state is by car, so consider a road trip! You can also just book a stay in Adelaide and do lots of day trips to attractions around the city from there.
But as with most of Australia, the best destinations are very spread out. A road trip is the most exciting and flexible way to explore!
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
1. Explore the capital city of Adelaide
Many visitors to South Australia start their trip in Adelaide, the state’s capital city.
Though not as famous as other Australian cities like Sydney or Melbourne, Adelaide has much to offer and you can easily spend 3 days or more exploring the city.
Adelaide is home to a variety of attractions that showcase its rich culture, from the museums and gardens of the North Terrace to the stunning coastline with destinations like Glenelg Beach.
The Adelaide Central Market is a must-visit for food lovers, offering fresh local produce, gourmet delights, and international cuisine. Or you can go shopping in the ever popular Rundle Mall.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the lush Adelaide Botanic Garden or take a short trip to Cleland Wildlife Park to get up close with kangaroos and koalas.
Art and history lovers can visit the South Australian Museum and the Art Gallery of South Australia, both housing impressive collections. You could also catch a performance at the Adelaide Festival Centre, or admire the historic Port Adelaide Lighthouse.
Sports lovers can tour the Adelaide Oval or attend a local footie or cricket match. There is truly something for everyone in Adelaide!
Read next: The Best Time to Visit Adelaide, South Australia
2. Go wine tasting in the Clare Valley
Clare Valley, located about 120 kilometers north of Adelaide, is one of Australia’s oldest and most famous wine regions, renowned for its exceptional Riesling and boutique wineries.
The picturesque valley offers rolling vineyards, charming cellar doors, and scenic country landscapes, making it a favourite destination for wine and nature lovers.
The Riesling Trail, a popular cycling and walking path, allows visitors to explore the region while stopping at wineries and historic towns along the way.
Clare Valley is also home to rich heritage, with towns like Mintaro featuring beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture like the stunning Martindale Hall. It’s a must-visit destination for wine lovers in South Australia!
South Australia is the perfect place for wine lovers.
3. Go wine tasting in McLaren Vale
Surprise, South Australia has multiple world-famous wine regions outside Adelaide. If you’re a true wine lover, why not visit them all?
In addition to the Clare Valley, McLaren Vale is also an incredible destination for wine enthusiasts. You can visit as a day trip from Adelaide, or go on your own self-guided excursion.
McLaren Vale is only 45 minutes south of Adelaide near the Fleurieu Peninsula. This wine region is celebrated for its premium Shiraz, sustainable winemaking, and incredible views.
There is even a Shiraz Trail for those who want more options for walking and cycling through wine countries.
With over 80 wineries and cellar doors, visitors to McLaren Vale can enjoy wine tastings at family-run vineyards while soaking in breathtaking views of rolling hills and nearby beaches.
4. Ride a hot air balloon over wine country
In addition to wine tastings, one of the best things to do in South Australia is soar over the rolling vineyards in a hot air balloon!
The Barossa Valley is another one of the area’s best wine regions. A hot air balloon ride over the Barossa Valley is a magical way to experience the tranquil charm of South Australia.
Flights normally go for about an hour and include some snacks and drinks.
After your flight, consider spending 3 days in the Barossa Valley to see even more! The wine tasting and gourmet food experiences in the Barossa Valley are some of the best in South Australia.
5. Connect with nature in Murray River National Park
Murray River National Park, located in South Australia’s Riverland region, is a gorgeous natural escape known for its diverse wildlife and fun outdoor activities.
The park protects vital wetlands and floodplains along the mighty Murray River, providing a haven for native birds, kangaroos, and emus.
Visitors can enjoy kayaking or canoeing through the peaceful backwaters, fishing along the riverbanks, or exploring scenic walking trails through the park’s unique ecosystems.
You can even camp in the wilderness for an extended stay on the River Murray. The lush red gum forests and towering limestone cliffs create breathtaking scenery that is perfect for photography and camping.
With its rich Aboriginal heritage, abundant wildlife, and serene waterways, Murray River National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in South Australia.
6. Visit Kangaroo Island
For amazing beaches and breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean, head down to Kangaroo Island!
As one of Australia’s top eco-tourism destinations, Kangaroo Island is home to native animals such as kangaroos, koalas, sea lions, and echidnas, thriving in protected habitats like Flinders Chase National Park.
There are so many cool things to see in Flinders Chase National Park, including rugged rock formations like Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Or head to Seal Bay Conservation Park to view the local sea lions and take in the stunning coastline.
The crystal-clear waters around Kangaroo Island offer excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and marine life encounters.
Food lovers can indulge in fresh seafood, local honey, and artisanal cheeses, making Kangaroo Island a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and gourmet experiences.
Book a full day tour to Kangaroo Island from Adelaide for a hassle-free experience!
Read our full Kangaroo Island itinerary to further plan your stay.
7. Hike through the Flinders Ranges
The majestic mountains of the Flinders Ranges are one of the top attractions in South Australia. Anyone who loves hiking through beautiful scenery can plan a visit here for the ultimate outdoor adventure.
The Flinders Ranges is an ancient mountain range in South Australia full of rugged peaks, deep gorges, and mind-blowing rock formations. There are hiking trails suitable for people of all fitness levels, and it’s one of the best places for hiking in Australia.
One of the most iconic hikes is Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheatre that provides panoramic views and a glimpse into the region’s geological past.
The Arkaba Walk and Heysen Trail also offer multi-day trekking adventures through spectacular outback scenery. Along the way, hikers may encounter kangaroos, emus, and vibrant birdlife while exploring Aboriginal rock art sites that tell stories dating back thousands of years.
With its spectacular scenery and remote beauty, the Flinders Ranges is a must-visit destination for hikers. Find more details about the best hikes in Flinders Ranges on the national parks website.
Mountain views in the Flinders Ranges
8. Dive with Great White Sharks in Port Lincoln
Diving with great white sharks in Port Lincoln is one of the most thrilling wildlife experiences to have in Australia.
Located on the Eyre Peninsula, Port Lincoln is the only place in the country where you can cage dive with these apex predators in their natural habitat.
Tours take adventurers to the crystal-clear waters of the Neptune Islands, where great white sharks gather, offering an up-close encounter with these magnificent creatures. No scuba diving experience is required, as the cage provides a safe and controlled environment.
For those who prefer to stay dry, some operators offer underwater viewing from an enclosed Aqua Sub. This heart-pounding adventure attracts thrill-seekers from around the world!
9. Drive across the Nullarbor Plain
Many travellers might not think to add the Nullarbor Plain to their Australian bucket list, but it’s a surreal experience to have in South Australia.
The Nullarbor Plain is a vast, arid expanse stretching across South Australia and Western Australia, famous for its endless horizons and remote desert views.
Covering around 200,000 square kilometers, it is home to the world’s longest stretch of straight road along the Eyre Highway, making it a bucket-list journey for adventurous road trippers.
The plain’s name, meaning “no trees” in Latin, reflects its mostly treeless, limestone-dominated terrain, which is full of caves, sinkholes, and underground rivers.
Despite its harsh conditions, the Nullarbor is teeming with wildlife, including kangaroos, dingoes, and wedge-tailed eagles, making it a truly unique and unforgettable part of Australia’s Outback.
Though it’s a massive feat to drive the entire Nullarbor Plain, it’s a classic part of any Outback road trip!
Drive across the famous Nullarbor with an Adelaide to Perth road trip itinerary!
10. Admire the Great Australian Bight from the Bunda Cliffs
A highlight of the Nullarbor Plain is the Bunda Cliffs. Even if you’re not driving all the way from Adelaide to Perth, it’s worth driving part of the Eyre Highway just to see this viewpoint.
The Bunda Cliffs are the gorgeous spot where the Outback meets the wild Southern Ocean. Stretching for over 100 kilometers along the Great Australian Bight, these dramatic limestone cliffs rise up to 90 meters high, offering amazing panoramic views of the coastline.
The cliffs are part of the longest uninterrupted sea cliffs in the world, making them a must-visit destination for road trippers traveling the Eyre Highway.
Visitors can witness incredible sunsets and spot migrating southern right whales during the winter months. The Bunda Cliffs provide a glimpse into Australia’s ancient geological history and are a true testament to the country’s vast and rugged wilderness.
The dramatic Bunda Cliffs are a highlight of South Australia
11. Stay in an underground hotel in Coober Pedy
Coober Pedy is a remote desert town in the middle of the South Australian Outback. It’s a popular stopping point on road trips through Australia, such as from Adelaide to Darwin.
The village is surrounded by the otherworldly landscapes of Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, full of crazy moonscapes that look like they are actually from another planet. The area is also famous for its thriving opal mining industry.
But what Coober Pedy is most well known for is its underground hotels, museums, churches, and homes. Many local businesses have built dwellings underground to escape the harsh desert climate.
When you visit the quirky town of Coober Pedy, book a stay in an underground hotel so you can get the full local experience!
12. Go whale watching in winter
Whale watching in South Australia is a breathtaking experience. Visitors have the chance to see majestic southern right whales, humpback whales, and even blue whales as they migrate along the Australian coastline.
The best time to witness these gentle giants is from May to October, when they travel to sheltered bays to mate, give birth, and nurse their young.
The Eyre Peninsula, Victor Harbor, and the Great Australian Bight are prime locations for spotting whales, with viewing platforms and boat tours providing up-close encounters.
At Head of Bight, visitors can watch mother whales and their calves resting in the crystal-clear waters against the backdrop of the towering Bunda Cliffs.
With its stunning coastal scenery and incredible marine life, South Australia offers some of the best whale-watching experiences in the country.
13. Go wildlife spotting in Victor Harbor
Victor Harbor is not just an amazing place for whale watching! This beautiful location on the Fleurieu Peninsula is a haven for all types of marine life.
South Australia’s marine life is abundant, and Victor Harbor is the perfect place to get out on the water and see some animals.
A sightseeing cruise will bring you across the Southern Ocean, where you can spot playful seals, sea lions, and dolphins playing in the waves. And of course, in winter you might catch a glimse of some whales as well.
If you want to immerse yourself in the spectacular views and marine life of South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula, try a wildlife cruise in Victor Harbour.
14. Attend a festival
Festivals are a huge part of the culture in South Australia, for both locals and visitors!
The state hosts world-class events celebrating arts, music, food, and culture throughout the year.
The Adelaide Fringe Festiva is the second-largest arts festival in the world. It transforms the city into a hub of creativity with comedy, theatre, and live performances.
WOMADelaide is another highlight. This globally renowned music and dance festival brings international artists to the stunning Botanic Park of Adelaide.
Wine lovers can indulge at the Barossa Vintage Festival, while foodies can enjoy local flavors at Tasting Australia.
For motorsport fans, the Adelaide 500 delivers thrilling racing action. Whether you’re into arts, music, food, or sports, South Australia’s festivals offer unforgettable experiences for everyone.
Read next: The Ultimate Melbourne To Adelaide Drive Itinerary
15. Explore the German settlement of Hahndorf in Adelaide Hills
Hahndorf, a popular day trip from Adelaide, is Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement. This charming town in the Adelaide Hills has a rich heritage, lots of unique artisan shops, and delicious local produce.
Established by German settlers in 1839, Hahndorf retains its European charm with historic buildings, traditional bakeries, and authentic German restaurants serving bratwurst and pretzels.
Visitors can stroll along the tree-lined main street, exploring boutique stores, art galleries, and handcrafted goods. The town is also a gateway to the Adelaide Hills wine region, offering cellar doors and farm-fresh produce.
Attractions like the Beerenberg Farm, where you can pick your own strawberries, and the Hahndorf Academy, showcasing local art and history, add to its appeal.
Anyone looking for a bit of European vibes in South Australia can add Hahndorf to their bucket list! It’s a truly adorable place to visit.
Escape to the storybook village of Hahndorf!
16. Cruise along the Murray River
As Australia’s longest river, the Murray River stretches over 2,500 kilometers through South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales.
If you get the chance to cruise along the famous River Murray, go for it!
A Murray River cruise from Adelaide Hills is one of the best ways to kick back, relax, and enjoy the scenery of South Australia.
You’ll get to enjoy some local food as you drift along Australia’s most iconic river, which is a fabulous addition to any travel itinerary.
Find more fun things to do in the Murray River region with our local guide!
17. Feast on fresh seafood along the Eyre Peninsula
Anyone who loves seafood will be in heaven in South Australia, particularly along the Eyre Peninsula.
Known as the Seafood Frontier, this stunning coastal region is famous for its premium oysters, freshly caught tuna, abalone, and king prawns.
Visitors can indulge in a seafood platter at a waterfront restaurant, shuck their own oysters at Coffin Bay, or join a fishing charter to catch their own dinner.
Port Lincoln, the seafood capital of Australia, is home to world-class seafood festivals and dining experiences that celebrate the region’s rich marine bounty.
Feasting on fresh seafood along the Eyre Peninsula is a dream come true for food lovers, offering some of the best seafood in Australia (and possibly the world).
18. See the shifting colours of the Blue Lake
The Blue Lake is one of the more unique places to visit in South Australia. Located in the rural town of Mount Gambier, this natural wonder has vibrant colour changes throughout the year.
From December to March, the lake is a stunning cobalt blue that looks gorgeous against the surrounding volcanic landscape.
This seasonal shift is due to a natural phenomenon involving temperature changes and dissolved minerals in the water, as the Blue Lake formed within an extinct volcanic crater.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from lookout points or take the 3.6-kilometre walking trail around the lake to fully appreciate its beauty.
Explore more of Australia with our PERFECT 1, 2 or 3 Week Australia Itinerary Guides.
19. Explore the Yorke Peninsula
Serving as the gateway to Kangaroo Island, the Yorke Peninsula actually has much to offer in addition to the famous island. So take some time to explore this lovely area before hopping over to the islands!
A highlight of the Yorke Peninsula is Innes National Park, a hotspot for hiking serene trails, seeing historic lighthouses, and spotting wildlife like emus and kangaroos.
The Yorke is a long-distance coastal hiking trail covering 500 km of stunning shoreline for those who want a mega hike on the peninsula.
There are also several beautiful beaches here including Berry Bay, Ethel Beach, and Dolphin Bay, all of which are perfect for swimming, surfing, and fishing.
Those who want to camp under the stars can head to Browns Beach, Gleesons Landing, or The Gap. Those who prefer history, culture, and cuisine can check out the Port Victoria Maritime Museum, Barley Stacks Wines, or the Watsacowie Brewery in Minlaton.
There are so many things to do on the Yorke Peninsula, and it’s an amazing place to spend a weekend in South Australia.
The beautiful Berry Bay on the Yorke Peninsula
20. Explore the sand dunes of Lincoln National Park
Nature lovers looking for more incredible places to visit in South Australia can visit Lincoln National Park on the Eyre Peninsula.
The park offers breathtaking coastal views, secluded bays, and excellent opportunities for camping, hiking, and fishing.
Explore scenic trails like the Stamford Hill Hike, which provides panoramic vistas over Boston Bay, or relax on the crystal-clear shores of Memory Cove.
The sand dunes in Lincoln National Park are a spectacular natural attraction, offering a thrilling playground for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Located near September Beach and Sleaford Bay, these towering dunes form an ever-shifting landscape shaped by the coastal winds.
Explore the vast sandy expanses on foot, try sandboarding down the slopes, or join a sunset tour with a local guide.
21. Swim with sea lions in Baird Bay
Baird Bay is a small fishing village on the Eyre Peninsula with gorgeous beaches and plenty of attractions for travellers.
A highlight of the area is the local sea lion colony, where these intelligent and friendly mammals frolic in the waves of the Southern Ocean.
Visitors can actually swim with these playful sea lions on a small-group tour in Baird Bay! Venture out into the shallow, calm waters with your expert guides and get an up-close encounter with the beloved sea lions.
You may also get to swim with dolphins as well! This is one of the best attractions in South Australia for animal lovers.
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