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There are plenty of great places to go camping in Victor Harbor and across the Fleurieu Peninsula. But, before you roll up your swag and pack your car, get recommendations on top spots to visit, tips to get there, and places to explore.

Top Spots for Camping Along the Fleurieu Peninsula

Victor Harbor Holiday & Cabin Park

When it comes to family-friendly camping, Victor Harbor Holiday & Cabin Park is a top contender. Nestled in a spacious and leafy setting, this camping ground offers plenty of room for you and your family to spread out and enjoy the great outdoors.

If you’re travelling with kids, the park has a range of facilities to keep them entertained. From waterslides to a swimming pool, and a large children’s playground, there’s never a dull moment. Meanwhile, parents can relax and unwind on the expansive lawns or at the camp kitchen, equipped with all the essentials to prepare meals.

Victor Harbor Holiday & Cabin Park also offers a range of accommodation options, including cabins, villas, chalets, and units. These are perfect for groups of friends or young people who want to experience the camping lifestyle with a few added luxuries. All accommodation options are fitted with comfortable beds, air-conditioning, and modern amenities, making your stay as comfortable as possible.

With its proximity to the heart of Victor Harbor, guests can easily access local attractions such as Granite Island, the horse-drawn tram, and the town’s many shops, cafes, and takeaways. Plus, with the park situated just a short walk from some of the Fleurieu Peninsula’s best beaches, you can enjoy a refreshing swim or a leisurely stroll along the sand.

NRMA Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park

If you’re looking for a peaceful and picturesque camping ground in Victor Harbor, then NRMA Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park is an excellent choice. Nestled right by the water, this park offers a stunning location with easy access to the beach.

For those who love fishing and boating, this holiday park is a perfect spot. With a boat ramp located just a stone’s throw away, you can easily launch your boat and head out onto the sparkling blue waters of Encounter Bay. Meanwhile, the park’s calm waters make it perfect for young children to swim and paddle safely.

NRMA Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park offers a range of accommodation options, from powered and unpowered campsites to self-contained cabins. The park’s sites are spacious, level, and shaded, providing a comfortable and relaxing stay. Guests can also enjoy the park’s facilities, including the camp kitchen, barbecue areas, and children’s playground.

And if you’re into glamping in Victor Harbor, this location also offers the newly added safari tents. Each of these offers easy access to the beach and views stretching to Encounter Bay.

With its prime location, NRMA Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park is just a short stroll away from the town centre, where you can enjoy a range of dining options, like restaurants or cafes and takeaways, shopping, and local tours and attractions such as the South Australian Whale Centre, and the Urimbirra Wildlife Park.

Adare Camp & Caravan Park

This camping spot is typically focused on school groups, but Adare Camp & Caravan Park is a must-visit destination. Located in the nearby suburb of McCracken, Adare is steeped in history and offers a range of accommodation options for large groups, weddings, and families.

Adare’s most iconic feature is the historic Adare Castle, which provides a stunning backdrop for weddings and other special events. The park’s facilities are perfect for large groups, with plenty of space to set up camp and enjoy the great outdoors.

Adare is also a dog-friendly site, so your furry friends can join you on your camping adventure. With a range of facilities, including a camp kitchen, BBQ areas, and a children’s playground, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Plus, with the park located within easy distance of many walking and bike trails, you can explore the beautiful scenery of the Fleurieu Peninsula at your leisure.

Newland Head Conservation Park

If you’re a nature lover, surfer, or swimmer, then Newland Head Conservation Park is a must-visit destination in Victor Harbor. Located between the stunning beaches of Waitpinga and one of the other best beaches along the Fleurieu Peninsula, Parsons Beach, this park offers a unique and secluded camping experience.

Newland Head Conservation Park is perfect for those who love the ocean. With its close proximity to the beach, visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as fishing, swimming, and surfing. However, it’s important to note that Waitpinga Beach is not manned by lifeguards, and can produce a strong swell, so it’s only recommended for strong swimmers and surfers.

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the park offers plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Visitors can explore some of the best walking trails and hikes the Fleurieu Peninsula has to offer along the stunning coastal cliffs, spot local wildlife, or simply relax and soak up the serene surroundings.

Newland Head Conservation Park offers a range of camping options, from basic bush camping to more developed campsites with amenities. With its secluded location and stunning views, it’s the perfect spot for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in nature.

Choosing the Best Camping Spots Along the Fleurieu Peninsula

Camping along the Fleurieu Peninsula is an adventure that’s not to be missed.

So, pack up your tent, load up the caravan, or roll up your swag, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable camping adventure in one of Australia’s best places to camp. With its stunning coastal cliffs, sparkling blue waters, and abundant wildlife, there’s no shortage of natural beauty to explore.

For advice on choosing the best camping spot along the Fleurieu Peninsula for you or your family, pop by the Victor Harbor Information Centre for personal advice and recommendations. Or, feel free to contact us online for local tips and suggestions for travelling.

The Fleurieu Peninsula is a seaside playground. Hosting some of South Australia’s best beaches, it is a must-visit for swimmers, surfers, sunbathers, and whale watchers. Located just south of Adelaide, the Fleurieu Peninsula offers a variety of coastal experiences.

Pack your beach bag and head to one of the best beaches along the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Top 10 Beaches along the Fleurieu Peninsula

Port Elliot's Horseshoe Bay

Horseshoe Bay is a breathtaking cove promising serenity and family fun. This sheltered beach with its crystalline waters and golden sands is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and rock pool exploring. With abundant marine life and a unique shoreline, this is a true gem waiting to be explored.

Nearby, visitors will have the opportunity to explore clifftop walking trails with panoramic views of the enchanting bay and nearby islands. During cooler months of the year, the clifftops are one of the best spots to whale watch in South Australia.

Middleton Beach

For those with a passion for surfing, Middleton Beach is the place to be. This long stretch of South Australian coastline offers perfect conditions for all skill levels. The pristine white sand invites sunbathers, while rock formations at either end of the beach provide a scenic backdrop for avid photographers.

Visitors can join a local surf school, like Learn to Surf South Australia, or simply soak in the laid-back atmosphere of this charming seaside village.

Encounter Bay

Encounter Bay is central to a wide range of adventures across the Fleurieu Peninsula. This vast expanse of turquoise water is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, hosting exciting activities like abseiling, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, and scuba diving.

The rugged coastline is interspersed with small sandy coves, perfect for a secluded picnic or a romantic getaway. If you’re visiting, be sure to check out the historic whaling station and Bluff lookout, both offering sweeping views of the bay.

Nearby, visitors can forget about walking and try their hand at riding the Encounter Bikeway, an on-road and shared trail that links Victor Harbor and the riverport town of Goolwa, via the coastal towns of Port Elliot and Middleton.

Goolwa Beach

At Goolwa Beach, miles of unspoiled shoreline and rolling sand dunes create an otherworldly landscape.

Somehow balancing itself as a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a 4WD adventure, Goolwa Beach offers activities for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Visitors can try their hand at sandboarding on the colossal dunes, or be captivated by the abundant birdlife and seasonal whale watching opportunities.

Normanville Beach

Normanville Beach is a slice of paradise ideal for families and relaxation seekers. Its calm, shallow waters make it perfect for young swimmers, while the extensive stretches of soft sand invite long beachcombing sessions.

Nearby, visitors can try the local cafes and eateries, or indulge in a horseback ride along the shoreline for a truly memorable experience.

Blowhole Beach:

Nestled within the Deep Creek Conservation Park, Blowhole Beach is an idyllic haven for those seeking seclusion and natural beauty.

Accessed via a scenic drive and a short hike, this hidden gem rewards visitors with its turquoise waters, rocky outcrops, and thriving marine life. Perfect for snorkelling, fishing, and wildlife spotting, this beach is an unspoiled sanctuary worth the journey.

Waitpinga Beach

Waitpinga Beach is a rugged, windswept paradise for surfers and anglers alike.

Known for its wild waves and abundant fish species, this untamed stretch of coastline is ideal for those seeking an adrenaline rush.

The towering cliffs and dramatic coastal scenery make for an awe-inspiring backdrop, while the neighbouring Waitpinga Conservation Park offers ample opportunity for bushwalking and birdwatching.

Nearby, visitors can explore Parsons Beach, another secluded favourite. Parsons Beach is known by locals as a fishing and surfing favourite and another must-visit.

Sellicks Beach

The drive down to the shoreline of Sellicks Beach offers a unique, exhilarating experience as you descend the steep hill, revealing panoramic views of the expansive coastline.

Sellics Beach is known for its firm sand, making it possible for cars to easily navigate. During warmer months, the beach is a popular spot for visitors parking cars along the sand, and enjoying picnics.

The beach’s southern end has an off-leash dog area, making it a popular spot for a family outing with furry friends.

Port Noarlunga South

Port Noarlunga South is a vibrant beach, with popular aquatic activities and a remarkable reef.

The protected waters of Port Noarlunga Aquatic Reserve make it a popular spot for snorkelling and scuba diving. There are plenty of colourful fish and coral formations hidden beneath the surface to be explored.

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the esplanade, take a dip in the calm waters, or relax on the golden sand.

Second Valley

Second Valley is a secluded cove nestled between rugged cliffs and dense foliage. It’s a perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle and just… relax.

But if you’ve got a sense of adventure, Second Valley can offer that too. Visitors can wander along the historic jetty, discover rockpools, or embark on a coastal walk up the cliffside to discover stunning views from the clifftops.

Visiting Victor Harbor

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for a wild adventure, or a nature lover looking for a laidback experience, the Fleurieu Peninsula boasts some of South Australia’s best beaches, each with its own unique characteristics and attractions.

For more information on each of these beaches, or recommendations along the Fleurieu Peninsula, please feel free to contact us to learn more.

If you’re interested in travelling and exploring the Fleurieu Peninsula, Victor Harbor is a great central point, offering options for local events, places to eat and drink, and more. Explore accommodation in Victor Harbor now, or contact us for more advice.

Whale watching has become one of the most popular activities for visitors to South Australia, and for good reason. With diverse marine life, stunning landscapes, and incredible encounters with nature and wildlife, it’s no wonder that people from all over the world travel across the world to this little pocket of Australia to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

For the best chances of spotting whales during your visit, it’s recommended to book a whale-watching tour with an experienced guide who knows the best spots for whale sightings or talk to the friendly team at the South Australian Whale Centre.

If you’d like to learn more about whale watching in South Australia with some local tips, feel free to reach out and contact us.

What whales will you get to see from South Australia?

The most common sightings of whale watching in South Australia are Humpback Whales and Southern Right Whales. Further offshore with guides, visitors might be lucky enough to spot toothed whales such as sperm whales, pilot whales, and even orcas.

The largest animal in the world, the blue whale, can also be spotted feeding offshore from Kangaroo Island and the Bonney Coast.

Best times for whale watching in South Australia

The best times for whale watching in South Australia vary depending on the species and annual migration you hope to see, but in general, the whale-watching season runs from May to October.

The annual migration of whales to South Australia occurs during the cooler months of the year, when they mate, give birth, and nurse their young. For the best chances of sighting whales, visit South Australia between June and September.

May to October is the most popular time to go whale watching in South Australia. During these colder months, the southern right whales and humpback whales are the most commonly spotted species.

Just a slightly smaller window, during May to October, you can still see southern right whales and humpbacks, but a higher chance of seeing blue whales.

Best spots in South Australia to go whale-watching

South Australia is home to some of the best whale-watching locations in the world, and each offers opportunities beyond seeing the world’s biggest mammals. These spots offer unique experiences, from the rugged coastline of the Eyre Peninsula to the family-friendly activities at Victor Harbor.

Regardless of where you choose to go, be sure to keep an eye out for these incredible creatures and remember to respect their space by keeping a safe distance.

Victor Harbor and the Fleurieu Peninsula

Located just an hour’s drive from Adelaide, Victor Harbor is one of the most popular whale-watching locations in South Australia. Being a breeding ground for Southern Right Whales, and a stop-in for passing Humpback Whales, there’s good reason.

You can see them passing from the coastline at scenic locations such as:

The cliffs at The Bluff
Nakurami Kondoli, the whale lookout at Encounter Bay
Basham Beach at Middleton
Frenchman’s Lookout at Port Elliot

Simply pack a picnic rug filled with food and local produce from Victor Harbor, find a spot, and maybe even a pair of binoculars. And if you don’t fancy your luck from the shoreline, you can contact us for some recommendations on local whale watching tours. If you’re lucky, you might even get to spot seals, sea lions, and dolphins as well.

Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts, and whale watching is one of the most popular activities on the island. The area is home to a diverse range of whale species, including Southern Right Whales, Humpback Whales, and Blue Whales. Whale watching tours depart from Kingscote and Penneshaw.

Eyre Peninsula

The Eyre Peninsula is a remote and rugged location that is well-known for its whale watching opportunities. The area is home to a wide range of whale species, including Southern Right Whales, Humpback Whales, and Blue Whales. Visitors can take a whale watching tour from Port Lincoln or Coffin Bay.

How to tell the difference between whales in South Australia

Colour

When it comes to coloration, Southern Right Whales are typically dark grey or black, with white patches called callosities on their heads, which serve as a unique pattern for each individual.

Humpback Whales, conversely, display a more varied color palette, ranging from dark grey to black on their dorsal side, with white or mottled white on their ventral side. Their flippers also exhibit unique patterns, aiding in individual identification.

Tail displays

Tail displays and fluke patterns are other telltale signs of a whale’s species is its tail displays and fluke patterns. Southern Right Whales have a broad and smooth tail fluke with a relatively straight trailing edge. They are less likely to lift their flukes out of the water when diving, making it slightly more challenging to observe their tail patterns.

Humpback Whales, in contrast, boast large, distinctive flukes with a serrated trailing edge. As they dive, they often lift their flukes high above the water, providing a familiar sight. Keen observers can use this opportunity to identify the individual based on the unique patterns found on the underside of their flukes.

Dorsal fin and head shape

Another aspect to consider when differentiating between Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales is the appearance of their dorsal fins and head shape. Southern Right Whales have a distinct lack of a dorsal fin, which sets them apart from other whale species. Their heads are also more rounded and wider, giving them a somewhat bulbous appearance.

Humpback Whales, in comparison, have a small, triangular dorsal fin that sits on a hump, a feature that has inspired their name. Their heads are narrower than those of Southern Right Whales, and they have elongated pectoral fins that can reach up to a third of their body length, contributing to their more streamlined appearance.

Behaviour

Whales also have distinct behaviours that can help you identify them. For example, Southern Right Whales are known to be more social and often swim in close groups, while Humpback Whales are more solitary and tend to travel alone or in small groups.

Tips for whale watching in South Australia

When choosing a whale watching tour operator, make sure they are licensed, experienced, and follow responsible whale watching guidelines. Supporting operators that prioritise the welfare of the whales, such as those who maintain a safe distance and limit the number of boats around the whales can help us enjoy sharing the world with these creatures for years to come.

If you’re watching whales from a boat, always follow the captain’s instructions and stay seated while the boat is moving. Don’t make any sudden movements or loud noises that could startle the whales.

Big Duck Boat Tours in Victor Harbor might be one of your best choices for whale watching in the area, with opportunities to head offshore from Granite Island to see seals, dolphins, seabirds, and whales. You can visit their website to learn more or contact us.

When watching whales from the shore, always be aware of your surroundings and keep a safe distance from the water. Never approach whales or other marine wildlife, and always follow any signage or instructions from local authorities.

If you’re having trouble spotting whales, try fixing your eyes on the horizon, using your peripheral vision to notice breaches as they happen.

For more help exploring Victor Harbor and the South Australian coastline

Aside from whale watching, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in South Australia. While you’re on the coastline, you can enjoy nature and wildlife by exploring some nearby walking trails, or go wine tasting in the picturesque wine regions of South Australia, filling your picnic basket with local produce to take with you.

No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in this beautiful little part of the world.

Contact our friendly team for more information and recommendations for Victor Harbor whale watching.

Walking trails and Fleurieu Peninsula hikes

Are you looking for a memorable outdoor adventure? Look no further than the stunning walking trails and hikes that fill the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through some of South Australia’s most pristine beaches, exceptional coastal views and unspoilt wildlife. With warm temperatures, beautiful sunsets and lush green landscapes, it’s the perfect place to explore nature and get away from it all.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll along the causeway to Granite Island or an exhilarating hike up a mountain, you can find it at the Fleurieu Peninsula. And what could be better than ending your trek by circling back to our beautiful beaches and enjoying a picnic filled with choices collected from wineries and local produce?

Recommended walking trails and hikes along the Fleurieu Peninsula

Hindmarsh River Trail

The Hindmarsh River Trail is a stunning escapade into Australia’s most pristine nature. Explore the endless flood plains, paperbark woodlands and sand dunes while delighting in a wealth of bird and frog sightings. Suitable for all fitness levels, this easy stroll will absorb you into the serenity of natural Australian beauty.

Start your journey by meandering around the lagoon and its fascinating mixture of both salty seawater and more brackish fresh river water, teeming with native aquatic life. Don’t forget to take note and follow the guidelines of all the trail markers that are in place, as they help protect our environment and ecosystem for future generations.

Heysen Trail

With 1,200 kilometres of diverse beauty, this trail is the perfect escape for hiking and backpacking enthusiasts seeking an adventure through deep gorges and lush vineyards from Cape Jervis to Parachilna Gorge. Whether you’re after a multi-day trek or a more casual day trip, the Heritage Trail, or Heysen Spur Trail is sure to provide every explorer with a journey through both Australian nature and history.

Start your trek at Cape Jervis on the picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula – here, you’ll find beautiful coastlines and stunning bushland as far as the eye can see. Afterwards, you’ll be journeying through pine forests, rich farmland and quaint towns as you make your way up north.

With an unequalled combination of breathtaking views and centuries-old stories brought to life, a trek along the Heysen Trail will give even the most experienced hikers something they’ve never experienced before.

Kaiki Trail Granite Island

The Kaiki Trail, or the Granite Island Loop, is a beautiful 3.5-kilometre walking trail near Victor Harbor (via the causeway). Open year-round, this loop trail is easily accessible and great for everyone, from beginner-level hikers to more experienced adventurers looking to enjoy a little bit of coastal solace in nature.

You can bring the whole family; the Granite Island Loop makes for a perfect serene escape that’s easy enough for everyone. It may take up to an average of 45 minutes to complete, but if you’re interested in whale watching, you can stay and enjoy watching their migration between May to October.

This walk can be taken as a quick loop or as an extended excursion for those who need more time to explore and let their mind wander peacefully. There’s no better way to enjoy some much-needed rest amongst family than by air-breathing through the Kaiki Trail. With stunning views of the ocean at the top of the island, it’s sure to have you feeling refreshed after a brief escape from your daily hustle and bustle.

Rosetta Trail

The Rosetta Trail is 800 meters of winding path near Victor Harbor that overlooks some truly breathtaking scenery. Ambitious travellers can also extend the walk by starting either in central Victor Harbor or Kent Reserve, or they can continue beyond Waitpinga Cliffs if they’re up for a bit of a challenge.

Throughout the trail, expect to see slices of unspoiled nature with diverse wildlife populating its expanse. Pastel-coloured fields watered by sunlight meet towering mountain peaks and rolling hills blanketed in lush vegetation. At night, pink-hued sunsets cast their calming hues over this magical landscape, while the warm glow of campfires invites you beneath the starry sky. For those looking for romantic getaways in South Australia, the Rosetta Trail is hard to beat.

Town Centre Heritage Trail

Explore Victor Harbor’s heritage like never before with the fascinating Town Centre Heritage Trail. This 3km self-guided journey takes you on an incredible adventure to uncover the stories of 38 historically significant buildings in the town centre—all while taking in glorious views as you make your way around.

We wouldn’t blame you if you stopped by to check out places to eat and drink in Victor Harbor as well.

Perfect for history buffs, walking enthusiasts, and anyone looking to learn more about the place many South Australians call home, this trail lets you explore Victor Harbor’s awe-inspiring local history and appreciate how these buildings have shaped who we are today.

Since 2010, Victor Harbor has been using blue plaques to demonstrate the importance of its State and Local Heritage Listed Buildings. There are over 50 of these special signs marking significant locations, proudly reflecting upon our rich and diverse built heritage for locals and visitors alike. During your exploration of the Town Centre Heritage Trail, keep an eye out for these playful symbols, popping up throughout your journey!

How to find the best walking trails in South Australia

Are you looking for an enriching and memorable experience? Visit Victor Harbor – South Australia’s premier destination for inspiration and exploration.

You can spend hours discovering breathtaking landscapes, with nature and wildlife that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Feel your heart race as you explore caves or follow ancient pathways meandering through lush greenery.

Our team are experts when it comes to travelling and experiencing South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula, so don’t worry if you need help along the way – we have it covered! With our straightforward advice and reliable recommendations, rest assured that your holiday turns into one of life’s most precious moments – an adventure bursting with opportunities!

Contact us online to find out more about exciting walking trails in South Australia’s Victor Harbor and the Fleurieu Peninsula, or plan your trip filled with walking trails using our travel inspiration.