The best luxury caravan campgrounds near Rapid Bay, South Australia

Hidden along the north shore of the Fleurieu Peninsula and hemmed in by soaring limestone cliffs, Rapid Bay makes a scenic stopover for intrepid campers. Once you’ve dug your toes in the sand and cooled off with a swim at Rapid Bay Beach, admire the views with a stroll along the Rapid Bay jetty, or head out to snorkel and scuba dive in the bay—known for its endangered Leafy Sea Dragon and numerous shipwrecks. Snag one of the unpowered sites at Rapid Bay Campground, or check into a holiday park or caravan park in nearby Second Valley, Yankalilla, or Normanville.

91% (255)

Top-rated campgrounds

Hidden along the north shore of the Fleurieu Peninsula and hemmed in by soaring limestone cliffs, Rapid Bay makes a scenic stopover for intrepid campers. Once you’ve dug your toes in the sand and cooled off with a swim at Rapid Bay Beach, admire the views with a stroll along the Rapid Bay jetty, or head out to snorkel and scuba dive in the bay—known for its endangered Leafy Sea Dragon and numerous shipwrecks. Snag one of the unpowered sites at Rapid Bay Campground, or check into a holiday park or caravan park in nearby Second Valley, Yankalilla, or Normanville.

91% (255)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

95%

(265)

39km from Rapid Bay · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · Victor Harbor, SA

Cooinda Retreats – Nature’s Happy Place 🌿 Find your peaceful bushland escape where the stars shine brighter, the air feels lighter, and your stay gives back. Nestled among native scrub with sweeping sea views, Cooinda Retreats blends the magic of nature with modern comforts — hot showers, clean facilities, Wi-Fi, and space to breathe. 🌟 Why Camp With Us? 🌿 Nature + Comfort Combined Wake to birdsong, not crowds. Wander through native bushland, relax by your fire pit (when permitted), and enjoy rustic charm with creature comforts. 💚 Camping That Makes a Difference Every stay supports our not-for-profit mission, funding inclusive programs for people doing it tough. When you camp here, you’re helping others find their happy place too. 🔥 Campfires Allowed only in designated platforms during safe periods (outside Fire Danger Season). Strictly no fires during bans. ✨ Seasonal Sites – Limited Time Only! On public holidays and school holidays, we open 12 extra seasonal sites across our grassy oval and bushland edge — spacious, scenic, and available only a few times a year. Check our Seasonal Sites listings to grab one while you can! 🔍 Choose Your Spot Powered & Premium Sites – some with pet enclosures 🐾 Site 1 – 15A powered, dog-friendly, fully enclosed (7 × 10 m) 🐾 Site 2a – Premium 15A powered, dog-friendly, fully enclosed (8 × 9 m) ⚡ Site 2b – Premium 10A powered (9 × 13 m) ⚡ Site 3a – Premium 10A powered (10.5 × 12 m) Non-Powered Sites ⛺ 3c – Swag / small tent zone 🏠 3d – Motorhome / rooftop tent layout 🌅 4 – Gentle slope, large site (12 × 9 m) 🐾 5 – Dog-friendly, fully enclosed (16 × 12 m) 🌳 6 – Quiet bushland retreat (7 × 11 m) 🌿 7 – Premium non-powered (11 × 7.5 m) 🌄 8 – Open & scenic (10 × 10.5 m) 🌊 9 – Lawn with ocean views (10 × 10.5 m) 🌊 10 – Elevated ocean outlook (10 × 10.5 m) ✅ Included with Every Stay 🚿 Hot showers & toilets 💧 Potable water 🍽 Camp kitchen + Wi-Fi 🚐 RV dump point ♻️ Leave No Trace We don’t provide rubbish bins — this helps protect the environment and keeps site costs affordable for everyone. Please take all waste with you and help us keep this place clean, wild, and wonderful. Camp with heart, unwind under the stars, and know every sunrise at Cooinda Retreats helps someone else find theirs. 🌞

2. Belair National Park Holiday Park

96%

(94)

70km from Rapid Bay · 103 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Adelaide, SA

Situated in the beautiful Belair National Park this holiday park is made for those looking to surround themselves in the gorgeous wilderness of South Australia. Only 11km south of the CBD and ideal for families, couple getaways and nature lovers; we’ve designed this accommodation to truly allow you to be one with nature. With cabins, glamping tents, cottages and spaces for camping there is an accommodation option for everyone.We want guests to enjoy all the luxuries when camping so you can stay as long as you want with all facilities you will need; whilst never taking away from the beautiful surrounds.

3. Brownhill Creek Tourist Park

92%

(18)

72km from Rapid Bay · 100 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Adelaide, SA

7kms from the Adelaide CBD at the foot of the Adelaide Hills is Brownhill Creek Tourist Park. Surrounded by leafy green trees, set in the eastern suburb of Mitcham giving a country feel to a busy city. Established as a caravan park in 1954 Brownhill Creek Tourist Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind in tranquil surroundings. Close to transport with direct routes to the city, easy access to Café’s, Bistro’s, hotels and shopping centres. A short 15 minute drive to the city, hospitals, beaches and fabulous shopping precincts. A 60 minute drive to the wine regions of the Barossa Valley and 25 minutes to McLaren Vale. Steeped in history and wild life, Brownhill Creek Tourist Park offers the ease of access to many walking and cycling trails where ruins of the early 1900’s can be seen along with the 400 year old tree in the centre of the park called “The Monach”.

4. Victor Harbor Holiday Park

38km from Rapid Bay · 215 sites · RVs, Lodging · Victor Harbor, SA

Victor Harbor Holiday Park offers a scenic getaway in the charming seaside town of Victor Harbor on the Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia. Victor Harbor Holiday Park is located in the picturesque seaside town Victor Harbor, 45 minutes from the Kangaroo Island Ferry and just 1 hour and 19 minutes from Adelaide. Visitors to the area enjoy the best of Fleurieu Peninsula including McLaren Vale Wineries, Granite Island and the charming towns of Port Elliot and Goolwa.

5. KI Caravan Park, Kingscote

100%

(4)

55km from Rapid Bay · 41 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Brownlow Ki, SA

KI Caravan Park, Kingscote offers a family- and pet-friendly, beachside stay in a peaceful natural setting. With a mix of cabins, cottages, studios, and both powered and unpowered sites, there are plenty of options to suit your needs. Our studios and cabins accommodate between one and seven guests and are just a short walk from the beach. Perfectly located on Kangaroo Island, the park provides easy access to all the island’s attractions and is only 3 km from downtown Kingscote, the largest town on the island. This is the perfect park if you love peace and quiet, wildlife, and nature. Spot koalas, wallabies, and some of the island’s most beautiful birdlife right from the property. A highlight of the park is the camp kitchen, a welcoming gathering space with plenty of tables and chairs, two barbecues, a full-size stove and oven, fridge/freezer, and a dedicated fish/bait freezer. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or both, a wonderful experience awaits you at this beautiful caravan park in one of the world’s most amazing destinations!

6. Emu Bay Hideaway, Kangaroo Island

100%

(13)

59km from Rapid Bay · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Emu Bay, SA

Welcome to your dream destination!! We have two different locations available in Kangaroo Island with some options of sites in each. FIRST LOCATION: EMU BAY HIDEAWAY-30 hectares of peace, mainly vegetated with Kangaroo Island Narrow-leaved Mallee (Eucalyptus cneorifolia, a nationally-protected ecological community). Kangaroos and wallabies are in abundance. It has a wonderful feeling of remoteness and seclusion yet is so close to iconic Emu Bay. Those with 4WD may choose sites overlooking Shoal Bay towards Kingscote. Alternatively, you may set up camp anywhere on the property. There is even one under-cover position with a concrete floor for those concerned about the weather. There are no amenities so guests need to be 100% self-sufficient (including BYO drinking water and toilet) and leave no trace. It is a wild block and only five minutes from the iconic Emu Bay, where the white sandy beach runs for 4kms, most of which is backed by 10 to 20-meter-high dunes. It is one of the best beaches on the island with crystal-clear water. SECOND LOCATION: Farm Stay about 15 km from Emu Bay and 20km from the main town of Kingscote. This is an operating small sheep farm of over 100ha. For security reasons the exact location is not advertised, but will be disclosed upon arrival on Kangaroo Island. There are several beautiful sites. This location is fairly central to most KI visitor attractions. It is a secure place to set up camp and have peace of mind that your belongings will be safe while you are away from the site. The host takes care to situate sites to give campers the feeling of exclusiveness. NOTES; Check with me before lighting a campfire - this depends on the season and risk. Dogs are permitted if well controlled (register visiting dogs with local council). IMPORTANT: As I have very limited access to the Internet, It is preferred that if you have questions, you can text or call me, Rosalie, on 0490485123. Please note - all bookings MUST still go through the Hipcamp system, no exceptions. Kangaroo Island is serviced by regular ferry - check SeaLink for details. As the service requires advance bookings, please secure your passage to the island before booking your site. Thank you.

7. BIG4 Port Elliot Holiday Park

46km from Rapid Bay · 281 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Port Elliot, SA

Embrace the beauty of nature at BIG4 Port Elliot Holiday Park, where stunning ocean views welcome you each morning. Nestled between Victor Harbour and Middleton, BIG4 Port Elliot offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit your ideal holiday. Choose from cosy cabins, spacious campgrounds, and caravan sites for a stay that fits your preferences. Spend your days exploring breathtaking beaches, perfect for activities like snorkeling at the famous Horseshoe Bay. Stroll along scenic trails or enjoy leisurely bike rides along Port Elliot’s striking coastlines. For those in search of a shopping fix, browse charming homeware stores and relax in stylish cafes along the way. At BIG4 Port Elliot, we’ve got the perfect accommodation options for you. Picture yourself unwinding in one of our cosy cabins or villas, perfect for families or couples, or setting up camp right by the beach on our spacious powered and unpowered sites. Whether you’re after a relaxing escape or an adventure along the coast, we’ve got everything you need for a memorable holiday.

8. BIG4 Normanville Jetty Holiday Park

100%

(1)

14km from Rapid Bay · 87 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Normanville, SA

Perfectly positioned between the sea and the scenic hills of the Fleurieu Peninsula, BIG4 Normanville Jetty Holiday Park offers a relaxed coastal escape just over an hour from Adelaide. With the beach at your doorstep and charming wine country nearby, it’s an ideal base for your next getaway. Whether you’re here to swim, fish, explore nearby walking trails, visit local wineries or simply soak up the laid-back coastal vibe, we have everything you need. Our park features a range of accommodation options, powered and unpowered sites, modern amenities, BBQ areas, and a camp kitchen to make your stay comfortable and carefree. Our executive cabins were built new in 2022, blending modern comfort with coastal charm. Alongside our original one and two-bedroom budget cabins, we have options to suit couples, families, and groups. Our caravan and camping sites are thoughtfully positioned amidst sandhills and trees, providing a natural shield from the elements. Whether powered or unpowered, they’re spacious, shady, and made for easy beachside camping.

9. NRMA Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park

38km from Rapid Bay · 232 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Victor Harbor, SA

Whoever said the journey matters more than the destination didn’t have adventure-hungry kids on the backseat. Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park is an hour’s drive south of Adelaide, so they’ll be appeased in no time. Whether it’s the beach, the heated pool or the pump track in their sights, there’s serious fun to be had. Choose from modern family accommodation or back-to-basics campsites – either way you’ll be a stone’s throw from the beach (and your pet is welcome, too). With the cafes and shops of Victor Harbor within walking distance, this is a family holiday made easy. And when it’s time to explore the endless beauty of the Fleurieu Peninsula, our friendly team is on-site to help plan your adventure. Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park is located on the Fleurieu Peninsula, an hour’s drive south of Adelaide. Nestled in a quiet corner where the Inman River flows into the ocean, the park provides uninterrupted access to the beach. The cafes and shops of Victor Habour are within walking distance, and Granite Island can be reached on foot or by bike.

Camper favorites near Rapid Bay

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Victor Harbor Holiday Park

38km from Rapid Bay · 215 sites · RVs, Lodging · Victor Harbor, SA

Victor Harbor Holiday Park offers a scenic getaway in the charming seaside town of Victor Harbor on the Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia. Victor Harbor Holiday Park is located in the picturesque seaside town Victor Harbor, 45 minutes from the Kangaroo Island Ferry and just 1 hour and 19 minutes from Adelaide. Visitors to the area enjoy the best of Fleurieu Peninsula including McLaren Vale Wineries, Granite Island and the charming towns of Port Elliot and Goolwa.

KI Caravan Park, Kingscote

100%

(4)

55km from Rapid Bay · 41 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Brownlow Ki, SA

KI Caravan Park, Kingscote offers a family- and pet-friendly, beachside stay in a peaceful natural setting. With a mix of cabins, cottages, studios, and both powered and unpowered sites, there are plenty of options to suit your needs. Our studios and cabins accommodate between one and seven guests and are just a short walk from the beach. Perfectly located on Kangaroo Island, the park provides easy access to all the island’s attractions and is only 3 km from downtown Kingscote, the largest town on the island. This is the perfect park if you love peace and quiet, wildlife, and nature. Spot koalas, wallabies, and some of the island’s most beautiful birdlife right from the property. A highlight of the park is the camp kitchen, a welcoming gathering space with plenty of tables and chairs, two barbecues, a full-size stove and oven, fridge/freezer, and a dedicated fish/bait freezer. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or both, a wonderful experience awaits you at this beautiful caravan park in one of the world’s most amazing destinations!

Emu Bay Hideaway, Kangaroo Island

100%

(13)

59km from Rapid Bay · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Emu Bay, SA

Welcome to your dream destination!! We have two different locations available in Kangaroo Island with some options of sites in each. FIRST LOCATION: EMU BAY HIDEAWAY-30 hectares of peace, mainly vegetated with Kangaroo Island Narrow-leaved Mallee (Eucalyptus cneorifolia, a nationally-protected ecological community). Kangaroos and wallabies are in abundance. It has a wonderful feeling of remoteness and seclusion yet is so close to iconic Emu Bay. Those with 4WD may choose sites overlooking Shoal Bay towards Kingscote. Alternatively, you may set up camp anywhere on the property. There is even one under-cover position with a concrete floor for those concerned about the weather. There are no amenities so guests need to be 100% self-sufficient (including BYO drinking water and toilet) and leave no trace. It is a wild block and only five minutes from the iconic Emu Bay, where the white sandy beach runs for 4kms, most of which is backed by 10 to 20-meter-high dunes. It is one of the best beaches on the island with crystal-clear water. SECOND LOCATION: Farm Stay about 15 km from Emu Bay and 20km from the main town of Kingscote. This is an operating small sheep farm of over 100ha. For security reasons the exact location is not advertised, but will be disclosed upon arrival on Kangaroo Island. There are several beautiful sites. This location is fairly central to most KI visitor attractions. It is a secure place to set up camp and have peace of mind that your belongings will be safe while you are away from the site. The host takes care to situate sites to give campers the feeling of exclusiveness. NOTES; Check with me before lighting a campfire - this depends on the season and risk. Dogs are permitted if well controlled (register visiting dogs with local council). IMPORTANT: As I have very limited access to the Internet, It is preferred that if you have questions, you can text or call me, Rosalie, on 0490485123. Please note - all bookings MUST still go through the Hipcamp system, no exceptions. Kangaroo Island is serviced by regular ferry - check SeaLink for details. As the service requires advance bookings, please secure your passage to the island before booking your site. Thank you.

BIG4 Port Elliot Holiday Park

46km from Rapid Bay · 281 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Port Elliot, SA

Embrace the beauty of nature at BIG4 Port Elliot Holiday Park, where stunning ocean views welcome you each morning. Nestled between Victor Harbour and Middleton, BIG4 Port Elliot offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit your ideal holiday. Choose from cosy cabins, spacious campgrounds, and caravan sites for a stay that fits your preferences. Spend your days exploring breathtaking beaches, perfect for activities like snorkeling at the famous Horseshoe Bay. Stroll along scenic trails or enjoy leisurely bike rides along Port Elliot’s striking coastlines. For those in search of a shopping fix, browse charming homeware stores and relax in stylish cafes along the way. At BIG4 Port Elliot, we’ve got the perfect accommodation options for you. Picture yourself unwinding in one of our cosy cabins or villas, perfect for families or couples, or setting up camp right by the beach on our spacious powered and unpowered sites. Whether you’re after a relaxing escape or an adventure along the coast, we’ve got everything you need for a memorable holiday.

BIG4 Normanville Jetty Holiday Park

100%

(1)

14km from Rapid Bay · 87 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Normanville, SA

Perfectly positioned between the sea and the scenic hills of the Fleurieu Peninsula, BIG4 Normanville Jetty Holiday Park offers a relaxed coastal escape just over an hour from Adelaide. With the beach at your doorstep and charming wine country nearby, it’s an ideal base for your next getaway. Whether you’re here to swim, fish, explore nearby walking trails, visit local wineries or simply soak up the laid-back coastal vibe, we have everything you need. Our park features a range of accommodation options, powered and unpowered sites, modern amenities, BBQ areas, and a camp kitchen to make your stay comfortable and carefree. Our executive cabins were built new in 2022, blending modern comfort with coastal charm. Alongside our original one and two-bedroom budget cabins, we have options to suit couples, families, and groups. Our caravan and camping sites are thoughtfully positioned amidst sandhills and trees, providing a natural shield from the elements. Whether powered or unpowered, they’re spacious, shady, and made for easy beachside camping.

NRMA Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park

38km from Rapid Bay · 232 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Victor Harbor, SA

Whoever said the journey matters more than the destination didn’t have adventure-hungry kids on the backseat. Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park is an hour’s drive south of Adelaide, so they’ll be appeased in no time. Whether it’s the beach, the heated pool or the pump track in their sights, there’s serious fun to be had. Choose from modern family accommodation or back-to-basics campsites – either way you’ll be a stone’s throw from the beach (and your pet is welcome, too). With the cafes and shops of Victor Harbor within walking distance, this is a family holiday made easy. And when it’s time to explore the endless beauty of the Fleurieu Peninsula, our friendly team is on-site to help plan your adventure. Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park is located on the Fleurieu Peninsula, an hour’s drive south of Adelaide. Nestled in a quiet corner where the Inman River flows into the ocean, the park provides uninterrupted access to the beach. The cafes and shops of Victor Habour are within walking distance, and Granite Island can be reached on foot or by bike.

Stories from the community

Lydia

2 weeks ago

7 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

The peace & quiet with beautiful grass & having a campfire made Cooinda the perfect site for our 18ft caravan

M

Mal

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

We stayed for 2 nights and the hosts were excellent. The site had great views, overall it was a great stay. Highly recommended.

A

Adrian

3 weeks ago

6 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

We had a dog enclosure site (site 1) which was great. Dogs were Completely safe and we Could enjoy ourselves without worrying. The grounds were well maintained with beautiful green grass . The onsite caretaker and his wife were very helpful and courteous.

B

Brittany

3 weeks ago

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Belair National Park Holiday Park

We had a perfect spot on Koala Ln. Check in was so easy, got everything by e-mail and sms. Lots of amenities, clean bathrooms, hot water. A beautiful national Belair park right beside the campsite. 25 min from the city. It was a great stay! Would definitely stay there again!

L

Linda

November 2025

7 m travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

Great relaxing quiet stay, view was lovely, Guy and Mel were welcoming, friendly with just the right amount of chatter :). Definately will rebook at some point

D

Damien

November 2025

7 m pop-up camper

With pets

10 nights at Belair National Park Holiday Park

Excellent pet friendly caravan park. Spacious sites that are extremely well maintained. Excellent facilities. Would gladly stay again

G

Graham

November 2025

7 m travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

Great facilities, showers, camp kitchen and close to shops and eateries. It even has its own dump point and a couple of sites that are fully enclosed by a fence for people who have dogs.

L

Liz

November 2025

7 m travel trailer

3 nights at Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

Really nice quiet spot up in the hill overlooking the water and Granite island. Perfect size spots for a small van.

J

Jane

November 2025

5 m Class B

5 nights at Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

This really is a hidden gem. I’d recommend it to those who enjoy tranquility and spectacular views. Amenities were clean and in excellent condition.

a

amelia

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Belair National Park Holiday Park

Very recommended 🌹. Very clean toilet and good facilities..

Darryl

November 2025

7 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

Great quite little camp ground, nice grass areas, great view.

Tricia

November 2025

5 m pop-up camper

4 nights at Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

I absolutely loved my stay at Cooinda, so much so I booked again before I even packed up and left! I was on site 1 which was fantastic for my dogs as it is fully inclosed. Over the 4 nights I had a rotation of great friends come and stay and they too loved everything. Cooinda is so pretty, peaceful and spacious with great facilities. The grass is so lush and green and the view towards the ocean was lovely. Can't wait to my next trip!

C

Cate

November 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

Cooinda is a local favourite. Lovely owner and caretakers, well maintained campsites, convenient location and beautiful views. Give me this over a busy caravan park any day. Site 3b is spacious, flat and grassy so a very easy and relaxing place to set up and enjoy.

D

Deb

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

Great spot! Awesome view, can't wat to stay here again.

J

Jane

November 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

I loved the serenity, the lush lawns and the views. The amenities were nice and clean.

L

Lexie

November 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

Site 5 fully enclosed. Loved our stay here! Will be back!

E

Elspeth

October 2025

6 m Class B

With pets

1 night at Belair National Park Holiday Park

We were greeted by a Kangaroo at the entrance. It is a lovely tidy camp with a great feel about it. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would not hesitate to visit again.

j

julia

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

Soft landing for our shakedown trip. Gorgeous site with beautiful views. Well appointed and very clean facilities for those who may need them and the camp kitchen was exceptional. Beautifully and lovingly maintained with very helpful caretakers. Very close to all the facilities of SA's popular south coast but far enough away to be peaceful and calm. Dog loved it. We loved it. Will be back.

S

Sheryl

October 2025

4 m Class B

2 nights at Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

The grounds are immaculate. Well cared for and inviting. The facilities are great. Very clean showers and toilets and a really good functional camp kitchen with lots of outdoor seating. Highly recommend this park.

A

Ana Maria

October 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to Cooinda Retreats - RV and Camp Stay

It was a place so quite! The bathroom was so clean, also DW the kitchen well equipped! Beautiful views of the sea! And the place was so organized! Also we enjoyed with our small dog because is pet friendly!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best luxury caravan camping near Rapid Bay guide

Where to go

McLaren Vale

Foodies, wine lovers, and sunseekers are all welcome in McLaren Vale, one of South Australia’s most prestigious wine regions. In between wine tasting, swing by local farmers markets and farm-to-table restaurants to dine on fresh, seasonal cuisine, walk it off bushwalking or biking along the Coast to Vines trail, then cosy up around the campfire in the evening hours. Campers can take their pick of beachfront holiday parks, luxury glampsites, and national park campgrounds.

Fleurieu Peninsula

Stretching south of McLaren Vale, the Fleurieu Peninsula is the ideal destination for a long weekend from Adelaide, a family beach vacation, or a scenic coastal road trip. Surfers, snorkelers, and kayakers can explore the rocky coves and sea caves along the St Vincent Gulf shore, while the south coast towns of Victor Harbor and Goolwa are renowned for their wildlife-watching opportunities.

Kangaroo Island

Ferries and seaplanes set out from Cape Jervis at the tip of the Fleurieu Peninsula to Kangaroo Island, Australia’s third largest island. Wildlife-watching opportunities abound on the island, whether you’re marvelling at Admirals Arch and Remarkable Rocks in the Flinders Chase National Park, watching the Little Penguins in Penneshaw, or spotting seals and sea lions at Seal Bay. There are seven state-run camping areas to choose from, as well as several holiday parks and glamping options.

When to go

Summer is the busiest time to visit the Fleurieu Peninsula, when the vineyards are in full bloom and wildflowers speckle the coast. It’s often still warm enough for a beach day in late spring and early autumn, while winter visitors can make the most of the cooler weather with seaside hikes and seasonal whale-watching cruises along the coast.