Looking for a beach getaway near Adelaide, South Australia? Look no further than the stunning Fleurieu Peninsula! The Fleurieu peninsula is the smallest of the three peninsulas along the South Australian coast but has no shortage of stunning beaches. Located south of Adelaide, this is a popular destination for a getaway near the city. From expansive white sand shores to secluded coves and towering cliffs, the Fleurieu Peninsula’s coastline is truly incredible. It has to be one of my favourite peninsulas in South Australia. The beaches left me speechless! In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 best beaches worth visiting on the Fleurieu Peninsula.
10 best beaches on the Fleurieu Peninsula
1- Rapid Bay
This hidden gem lies at the bottom of the peninsula, only 105 km away from Adelaide, the capital of South Australia. Following a steeply descending road, you will discover this stunning beach. It is an ideal beach for those who enjoy fishing or for the snorkelling/diving enthusiast. Rapid Bay is known for its long jetty and the local shipwrecks featuring the famous Leafy Sea Dragon.
Access and tips: To get here, turn right from the main Normanville-Cape Jervis Road and follow a long and steep descent until you eventually reach Rapid Bay. If you plan to stay for a few days, you can book a beachfront basic campground for AUD $30 per night. It offers basic amenities such as toilets, non-drinking water and is dog-friendly. Don’t forget to fill up your drinking water tank for your stay.
2- Second Valley
Located near Rapid Bay, Second Valley has become a very popular destination during the summer months. The beach is stunning, with pristine water perfect for swimming. There are coastal walks to explore the area and a small jetty for fishing.
Access and tips: If you are looking to stay in the area for a few days but don’t fancy the idea of basic campsite in Rapid Bay, you’re in luck at Second Valley! There’s a caravan park right behind the beach with a small local kiosk.
Make sure to go for a walk along the surrounding giant valleys to view the beach from above. On the beach, walk to the right side and you should see a steep hiking trail that climbs up to the top of the valley. I recommend you check it out for the impressive view!
3- Sellicks Beach
This one has to be one of my favourites. Giant rugged cliffs, a long stretch of white sand beach and crystal clear water. And to add up to the experience, you can drive and park on the beach. The perfect place for a relaxing day at the beach!
Access and tips: Sellicks Beach is located at the south end of Silver Sands Beach. Please note that in summer, a donation of $7 is required to drive and park your car on the beach. Volunteers are present at the entrance from around 9 am to 5 pm. If you arrive early in the morning then access is free 😉
4- Carrinckalinga Beach
Located approximately 90 km south of Adelaide, this beach offers a plethora of activities such as swimming, surfing, fishing, and beach walks. It is renowned for its crystal clear water and abundance of rockpools that can only be accessed during low tide, making it a paradise for rockpool enthusiasts.
5-Port Willunga beach
You can’t plan a trip to the Fleurieu Peninsula without adding this spot to your itinerary. This is one of the most photographed beaches in Australia and you’ll understand why once you see it for yourself. This beach is unique and famous for its beachfront caves that were carved into the cliff. These were man-made and used by fishermen to store their boats. Nowadays, tourists and locals use them to seek shade and enjoy a perfect picnic spot.
Port Willunga Beach is also great for swimming and snorkelling along the old jetty.
Access and tips: The 6 beach caves are located on the left side of the beach from the main car park. The best time to visit is at sunset when the cliffs and caves are bathed in beautiful orange tones. Don’t forget to pack a picnic, a bottle of wine (or beers) and find a cave to set up in.
6- Maslin Beach
One of the best and most popular beaches on the Fleurieu Peninsula is Maslin Beach. Its long stretch of sand, crystal-clear water, and stunning views of the surrounding hills make it a must-visit destination. For an added picturesque view, make sure to stop by Blanche Point Lookout (which you can see in the distance from the beach).
Access and tips: Access to this beach is very easy with a large car park available. It’s worth noting: this beach is also known for its clothing-optional area, so if this is not your vibe, make sure you stick to the right side of the beach when entering from the car park.
7- Southport Beach
Southport Beach, situated in Port Noarlunga, is where the Onkaparinga River meets the sea. It offers visitors the choice between a surf beach and a calm river, perfect for activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking. This beach is another excellent beach among the many exceptional beaches found to the south of Adelaide within the Fleurieu Peninsula region.
8- Port Noarlunga Jetty and Snorkelling reserve
If you’re a dive enthusiast, Port Noarlunga needs to be added to your list of beaches to visit. The beach boasts a vast reef system that is home to a diverse range of marine life, including colourful fish and sea turtles. The area near the jetty is particularly ideal for snorkelling and diving.
9- Morgans Beach
Located near Cape Jervis, this pristine beach offers a serene getaway Less known and much further away than the other beach on the Fleurieu Peninsula, this one is an unpatrolled sandy beach accessible via a gravel road. It is a lovely beach to stop by before heading down to Cape Jervis to catch the boat to Kangaroo Island.
Access and tips: Beachgoers can drive four-wheel vehicles, but it’s essential to check the tides and weather conditions.
10- Myponga Beach
Myponga Beach is a hidden gem spot for swimming, fishing, and beach walks. Like most of the beaches on the Fleurieu Peninsula, it boasts of crystal-clear waters and white sand. The area also offers some great hiking trails and is popular for bird watching.
Access and tips: This beach is much smaller and secluded than others. She is located in a tiny village with limited parking. It’s an excellent option for those seeking a peaceful escape during peak season.
In conclusion, the Fleurieu Peninsula is home to some of the finest beaches in South Australia. Whether you’re in search of a secluded haven to unwind or a bustling beach for swimming and surfing, there’s something for everyone on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Not in South Australia and looking for the most beautiful beaches in Australia, I got you with this article.
Do you like this article? Pin it on Pinterest!
