South Australia beckons with its enchanting landscapes, bustling cities, and exotic wildlife, offering a vacation experience like no other. Join us as we take you on a personalized journey through this mesmerizing region, sharing our tips and places to visit in South Australia that will enhance your adventure.
Content Teaser
Quick Peek
Fact-sheet about our South Australia trip for our busy travelers.
Travel Time
October
Travel Mode
Journey
Our Must-Sees
Sellicks Beach, Barossa Valley, Kangaroo Island
Where to stay
Seaview Motel
Plant-Based Food
Veggo Sizzle, Lucky Duck
Mobility
Ferry, Rental car
Travel Budget
9 days for €3.544 / 5.856AUD
Exploring South Australia: Must-See Stops on Our Journey
A Seamless Journey: Flying from Singapore to Adelaide
Our South Australian odyssey commenced with a night flight from Singapore, spanning roughly 7 hours. Traveling with young children, this flight arrangement was nothing short of perfect. Departing in the evening from Singapore, we could comfortably settle in, catch some rest, and wake up in Adelaide, feeling rejuvenated and ready for our Down Under exploration. It set the stage for an incredible journey, and we couldn’t have asked for a smoother transition.
Entry Checks & Friendly Welcomes
Upon touchdown in Adelaide, we encountered Australia’s renowned entry checks, designed to ensure the safety of all travelers and residents. While the checks were thorough, what truly stood out was the warmth and efficiency of the airport staff. They went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and ensure our entry process was seamless. Any initial concerns melted away as we received a heartfelt welcome to South Australia and we are now ready for the best places to visit in South Australia.
Adelaide (3 days)
Our first destination was the captivating city of Adelaide, where we spent three unforgettable nights. The city’s vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, and picturesque parks left an indelible mark on our hearts.
Barossa Valley: Wine Lover’s Paradise (Day trip)
Wine enthusiasts, take note! Barossa Valley is South Australia’s wine country, where you can savor world-class wines and indulge in gourmet delights. Be sure to explore the vineyards and enjoy a tasting or two.
Sellicks Beach: A Hidden Gem (Day trip)
For those in search of tranquility and natural beauty, Sellicks Beach proved to be an undiscovered gem. Its pristine coastline and crystal-clear waters provided a serene escape.
Victor Harbor (Day trip)
Just a short drive from Adelaide, we discovered Victor Harbor, a coastal gem celebrated for its stunning beaches and close encounters with seals on nearby Seal Island.
Kangaroo Island: Wildlife Wonderland (3 days)
From Adelaide, our journey led us to Kangaroo Island, where we spent another three days immersed in nature. This island paradise is home to remarkable wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and sea lions, set against breathtaking landscapes.
Coorong National Park: Coastal Wonder (1 day)
Our adventure also took us to Coorong National Park, a coastal wonderland where sand dunes meet turquoise waters. It’s a haven for birdwatching and a place to marvel at the stunning scenery.
Mount Gambier: Volcanic Beauty (1 day)
Finally, we explored Mount Gambier, where the striking Blue Lake and volcanic landscapes added a unique dimension to our South Australian adventure.
Where to Stay in South Australia: Our Recommendations
Now that you know the best places to visit in South Australia, it’s time to address the question of where to stay. Here are our reviews and recommendations for accommodations during your South Australian adventure.
Seaview Motel
Our choice for a Kangaroo Island base turned out to be one of the highlights of our journey. The Seaview Motel provided an ideal starting point for exploring the island’s wonders.
Lakes Resort Adelaide
During our stay in Adelaide, we rested our heads at the Lakes Resort Hotel. Selecting the perfect accommodation for our family was paramount, and the Lakes Resort Hotel checked all the boxes. We desired comfort, convenience, and a central location that allowed us to explore hassle-free. For our three-night stay, this lakeside resort was the clear winner.
AirBnB Coorong
Additionally, the cozy Airbnb we found in Meningie exceeded our expectations. Our friendly hosts made our pit-stop feel like a home away from home. If you’d like their contact details, feel free to ask. Both accommodations left us thoroughly satisfied.
Foodie Paradise: Plant-Based Dining in South Australia
When it comes to satisfying our plant-based cravings, South Australia pleasantly surprised us with its options. In Adelaide, finding vegan-friendly restaurants was a breeze, ensuring our dining experiences were both delicious and accommodating.
Adelaide Vegan Delights:
In Adelaide, we didn’t encounter any difficulties in finding vegan options to satisfy our appetites. The city boasts a thriving vegan scene, offering everything from hearty plant-based burgers to creative vegan desserts. It was a culinary adventure that left our taste buds delighted.
Kangaroo Island Adventures:
Our journey to Kangaroo Island presented a slightly different dining experience. However, during our road trips, we often opt for self-catering, which proves to be incredibly convenient, especially when traveling with two little ones. Our focus shifts from high-class restaurants to the flexibility of dining on our terms.
Hidden Culinary Gems:
Nevertheless, we do enjoy the occasional dining-out experience, and South Australia had some standout spots. Lucky Duck in Aldinga and The Farm Eatery in Barossa Valley are two recommendations we’re excited to share. These establishments offer not only delectable plant-based options but also picturesque settings that enhance the dining experience.
Navigating South Australia: Your Transportation Guide
Getting around South Australia was a breeze with our trusty rental car, a Toyota Prado from Sixt. It proved to be the perfect choice for our family, accommodating our three large suitcases, stroller, and an array of bags with ease.
Airport Convenience
Upon our arrival in Adelaide via plane from Singapore, we opted to pick up our rental car directly at the airport. While we briefly considered renting from a downtown station to avoid potential airport surcharges, the convenience factor won us over. After a long flight and with two young children in tow, the last thing you want is the added stress of arranging transportation. It was a seamless experience, and we were on our way in no time.
Fueling Up
South Australia’s network of petrol stations was reliable and easily accessible. We had no trouble finding petrol stations along our route, ensuring that our journey was uninterrupted.
Kangaroo Island Insights
When it came to Kangaroo Island, a bit of advance planning was in order. However, what’s even more crucial is booking a spot on the ferry in advance. This ensured smooth and stress-free ferry rides to and from the island. Surprisingly, even in Adelaide, traffic was manageable, and we had no trouble finding parking spots.
Left-Hand Driving
Adapting to left-hand driving was a breeze, especially with the wide roads in Australia. It turned out to be a non-issue for us as we navigated the diverse landscapes of South Australia.
Family-Friendly Travel
Traveling with two young children, our goal was to make the journey as hassle-free as possible. South Australia’s well-maintained roads and thoughtful infrastructure made it a family-friendly destination.
Conclusion
Traveling with two young children, our goal was to make the journey as hassle-free as possible. South Australia’s well-maintained roads and thoughtful infrastructure made it a family-friendly destination.
Cost Breakdown: How Much to Budget for South Australia
Accomodation
Adelaide €549
Kangaroo Island €570
Coorong €190
Mount Gambier €100
Food & Dining
Mainly self-catering €425
Mobility
Rental car = 1.080€
Ferry = 300€
Petrol/Parking = 305€
Activities
Finders National Park = 25€
rest: free of charge!
Total Spent
3.544€ / 5.856 AUD
Snap-Worthy South Australia: Instagram-Ready Locations
Get your camera ready to explore Instagram-worthy locations while we provide you with a list of our recommended places to visit in South Australia, complete with GPS coordinates for easy navigation.
Sellicks Beach
GPS Coordinates: -35.2719° S, 138.4748° E
Capture the pristine coastline and crystal-clear waters of Sellicks Beach for stunning beach shots.
Seppeltsfield Road
GPS Coordinates: -34.5033° S, 138.9235° E
Explore the picturesque Seppeltsfield Road, lined with vineyards and olive groves, perfect for wine country snapshots.
Bumbunga Lake
GPS Coordinates: -33.9422° S, 138.2018° E
Bumbunga Lake offers unique photo opportunities with its vibrant pink hue, a result of the high salt concentration.
Admirals Arch
GPS Coordinates: -35.8924° S, 137.3429° E
Get up close to remarkable rock formations and playful seals at Admirals Arch on Kangaroo Island.
Winding Road Kangaroo Island
GPS Coordinates: -35.9335° S, 136.7497° E
Drive along the winding roads of Flinders Chase National Park for incredible scenic shots amidst diverse landscapes.
South Australia Travel FAQs: All You Need to Know
South Australia enjoys pleasant weather in spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). Summers can be hot, while winters are cooler.
Most travelers to Australia require a visa. Ensure you have the appropriate visa before your trip.
Click for details
The currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Money can be exchanged at banks, currency exchange offices, and ATMs are widely available.
Yes, English is the official language spoken in South Australia.
While South Australia generally offers access to medical facilities in most areas, there are regions, such as Kangaroo Island and Coorong, where population density is lower. In these less densely populated regions, it’s advisable to be well-prepared with a fully stocked travel medical kit. In major cities like Adelaide, you’ll find well-equipped medical facilities and hospitals with trained healthcare professionals. You never have to worry about the availability of medical care in urban areas.
Depending on the season, pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and a refillable water bottle.
South Australia offers opportunities to see unique wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and sea lions. Be respectful and observe animals from a safe distance.
While South Australia is home to unique wildlife, it’s essential to be cautious when encountering certain species. Some areas may have venomous snakes, including the Adelaide Hills and Flinders Ranges. Additionally, be cautious near the ocean, as South Australia’s waters are inhabited by marine creatures like sharks and jellyfish. It’s advisable to heed local warnings and guidelines to ensure your safety. During our visit, we did come across a brown snake in Victor Harbor, but beyond that, we had no other encounters with dangerous wildlife.
South Australia uses Type I electrical outlets, so you may need an adapter if your devices have a different plug type.
Try local specialties like pie floater, Coopers beer, seafood, and Barossa Valley wines.
Events like the Adelaide Fringe Festival, Barossa Vintage Festival, and Tasting Australia are popular and offer a taste of local culture.
Yes, tap water in South Australia is safe to drink.