Tucked away in the magnificent Coffin Bay National Park on the Eyre Peninsula, Almonta Beach stands out as one of South Australia’s premier beaches. Celebrated for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters, this beach provides an untouched wilderness experience that feels like your own private paradise. Almonta is accessible by a 2WD vehicle, making it an ideal retreat into nature without the need for off-road adventures.

The beach is bordered by striking limestone cliffs and offers stunning vistas of Golden Island in the distance, enhancing its appeal for visitors.

Wildlife enthusiasts will rejoice here, with native creatures like kangaroos, emus, and goannas frequenting the surrounding bushland, creating a truly Australian coastal environment. During low tide, explore natural rock pools and a lagoon perfect for snorkeling, unveiling a vibrant underwater world filled with marine life.

Nearby oyster farms offer the chance to savor fresh, expertly harvested Pacific oysters—a delightful addition to a day spent at the beach.

Access to Coffin Bay National Park and Almonta Beach requires a small entry fee, supporting conservation efforts to preserve this natural beauty for future generations. Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach day, eager to enjoy fresh seafood, or seeking adventure in a national park setting, Almonta Beach is a must-visit destination on the Eyre Peninsula, showcasing why South Australia is famed for its spectacular coastline and some of the best beaches.

Glenelg Beach is Adelaide’s most beloved and lively city beach, seamlessly combining sun, sand, and entertainment to create a vibrant coastal atmosphere. Situated on the shores of Holdfast Bay, it features expansive stretches of soft sand and turquoise shallows, perfect for swimming, lounging, or leisurely walks along the iconic jetty. Beyond the beach, enjoy bustling shops, charming sidewalk cafés, and a variety of family-friendly activities, including the Glenelg Foreshore Playground and the energetic Moseley Square during the warmer months.

For those looking to venture beyond the shoreline, Glenelg offers water sports like dolphin swimming tours and fishing charters, allowing you to connect with the region’s stunning marine life. When hunger strikes, beachside eateries and bars are ready to delight with fresh seafood and delicious gelati—a quintessential South Australian beach day indulgence.

Whether you’re planning a relaxed picnic on nearby lawns or a lively evening at the Moseley Beach Club, Glenelg Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban convenience that’s hard to match.

Maslin Beach is often hailed as one of the prettiest beaches in South Australia, located just 42 kilometres from Adelaide on the picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula. Known for its towering ochre cliffs and vast golden sands, this beach provides a stunning backdrop for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure. Stretching about 3 kilometres, part of Maslin is Australia’s first legal nudist beach, embodying the region’s relaxed and open spirit.

Beyond sunbathing and swimming, Maslin Beach is a favorite among surfers of all levels, thanks to its consistent beach breaks that attract both locals and tourists. The underwater world here is equally captivating, featuring dramatic shipwrecks and thriving marine habitats like the elusive Leafy Seadragon, making it a snorkeler’s and diver’s paradise.

The high cliffs offer perfect spots for picnics or as vantage points for breathtaking sunset views that capture the true essence of the Fleurieu Peninsula’s natural beauty.

With charming nearby cafés and access to some of South Australia’s finest wineries in the region, Maslin Beach is perfect for those looking to combine beach time with culinary and wine-tasting experiences. Whether you seek a peaceful escape or an exciting day of swimming, surfing, and beachcombing, Maslin Beach delivers on all fronts and remains a strong contender for the most beautiful beach in South Australia.

Located about 45 kilometres south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula, Port Willunga is one of South Australia’s most photographed beaches, celebrated for its stunning blend of golden cliffs, soft white sands, and crystal-clear waters. This beach is an ideal spot for swimming, fishing, and snorkeling, thanks to its calm and sheltered bay.

What sets Port Willunga apart are the dramatic remnants of the old jetty, creating a captivating scene, especially at sunset, attracting photographers and visitors alike.

Beyond its natural allure, Port Willunga is rich in history and character, featuring cliffside caves carved by fishermen long ago to store boats and nets. The ruins of the Harbour Master’s cottage, dating back to 1880, add a charming historic touch to your beach visit.

The nearby village combines a relaxed coastal vibe with access to the renowned McLaren Vale wine region, making it an excellent spot to enjoy fresh local wines and dining.

For an unforgettable meal with views overlooking the beach, the award-winning Star of Greece restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience, highlighting the best of South Australian produce. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful beach day, a scenic road trip destination, or a stopover to explore local wineries and breweries, Port Willunga perfectly embodies South Australia’s beach charm.

Hidden along the picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula, Carrickalinga Beach is a true gem cherished by South Australia’s treasure seekers. This stunning beach is adored for its golden sands and inviting clear waters, offering an idyllic setting that feels wonderfully tranquil and untouched.

Situated in a small coastal town overlooking Gulf St Vincent, Carrickalinga is surrounded by rugged cliffs and scenic lookouts, such as the Forktree Road Lookout, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views extending to Rapid Head.

Voted South Australia’s top beach by Lonely Planet in 2013, Carrickalinga continues to enchant visitors with its pristine coastline and serene ambiance. The beach is divided by Haycock Point into two distinct sections, both perfect for swimming and relaxing away from the crowds. Nature lovers will delight in the rocky coastline, rich with fascinating rock pools and hidden caves along the cliffs, adding an element of discovery to your beach day.

Easy walking trails wind through the dunes and along the coastline, inviting you to explore the surrounding natural beauty. Unlike many tourist-heavy beaches, vehicles are not permitted on the sand, ensuring a peaceful environment ideal for leisurely strolls. Nearby amenities include car parks with some disabled access and public toilets, providing a comfortable visit while preserving the pristine character of this South Australian favorite.

Vivonne Bay is frequently celebrated as one of South Australia’s most beautiful and peaceful beaches, located on the southern coast of Kangaroo Island. This bay offers an impressive six-kilometre-long stretch of white sandy shore gently embraced by clear, turquoise waters. Recognized as one of Australia’s top beaches in multiple evaluations, Vivonne Bay is perfect for picnics, swimming, fishing, and surfing, appealing to a wide range of visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure amidst pristine natural surroundings.

A unique feature of Vivonne Bay is its proximity to the only sand dunes on Kangaroo Island, known as Little Sahara, where visitors can enjoy hiking, sandboarding, and quad biking, adding an adventurous twist to your beach day. The bay also serves as a safe harbor for crayfishing boats from November to May, allowing you to witness local fishing activity or enjoy fresh seafood straight from the ocean.

Beyond the beach, the Vivonne Bay Conservation Park offers a protected natural reserve ideal for walking and wildlife spotting. Nearby, Seal Bay Conservation Park, home to one of Australia’s largest sea lion colonies, makes this region a fantastic destination for nature lovers.

With minimal crowds even during peak seasons, Vivonne Bay provides a serene and authentic South Australian coastal experience, making it a must-visit stop on Kangaroo Island.

Cactus Beach, located about 21 kilometres south of Penong on the Eyre Peninsula, is one of South Australia’s premier surfing destinations. Renowned for its two left-hand and one right-hand surfing breaks, it attracts surfers from across Australia and overseas eager to ride the waves in a pristine and natural setting.

Set within a wild and rugged landscape, Carrickalinga is enveloped by sand dunes and native shrubland, offering an unspoiled coastal experience away from the crowds.

The nearby campsite enhances the remote appeal with basic yet well-maintained facilities, including flush toilets, campfire pits, and stunning ocean views right from your tent. Accessibility is straightforward with a 2WD vehicle, though the sandy roads add an adventurous flair to your journey. The area’s natural beauty combined with epic surf makes Cactus Beach a favorite for those seeking a genuine South Australian beach experience filled with excitement and solitude.

Beyond surfing, visitors can enjoy fishing at the nearby jetty with shark nets that ensure safe swimming, alongside exploring the abundance of shells and unique coastal flora and fauna. Whether you’re planning a road trip or seeking a peaceful retreat, Cactus Beach offers a perfect blend of beautiful sea, surf, and natural wilderness, standing out as a unique coastal treasure in South Australia.

Memory Cove is a secluded and pristine bay located on the east coast of the Jussieu Peninsula on the Eyre Peninsula, approximately 15 kilometres southeast of Port Lincoln. Known for its pure white sandy beach and surrounded by dense coastal mallee vegetation, Memory Cove offers a genuine wilderness experience that is rare in South Australia.

The area is protected as part of the Memory Cove Wilderness Protection Area, with access limited to preserve its unspoiled natural beauty, making it an exclusive destination for visitors seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature.

Access to Memory Cove is only possible via 4WD vehicles, and only 15 permits are issued per day, so booking in advance is essential. Once there, enjoy activities such as swimming in crystal-clear waters, fishing, birdwatching, kayaking, and walking short trails that unveil stunning coastal lookouts and panoramic views of surrounding islands.

During certain times of the year, you might even spot whales or dolphins passing offshore, enhancing the wild coastal charm of this spot.

The campground is nestled under coastal mallee, providing some shade and shelter, equipped with basic long-drop toilets while maintaining a minimalist approach that emphasizes natural preservation—no campfires are permitted.

Memory Cove is entirely surrounded by Lincoln National Park, allowing visitors to combine their trip with exploration of nearby natural attractions, making it a perfect destination for adventurers or nature enthusiasts on a South Australian road trip.

Emu Bay is a stunning beach on Kangaroo Island’s north coast, celebrated for its 4.5-kilometre stretch of clean white sand and inviting crystal-clear waters. Just 10 kilometres from Kingscote, the island’s main town, Emu Bay is easily accessible and offers accommodation with beautiful beach views, making it an ideal destination for holidaymakers eager to experience the best of South Australia’s coastal charm.

The beach is perfect for a variety of activities including swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and relaxing by the water. The historic jetty is a popular spot not only for fishing but also for scenic walks or embarking on fishing charters with local guides who know the best catch areas. Emu Bay is famous for its friendly seasonal dolphin encounters, especially from late December through March, when pods often swim close to shore, offering visitors the rare chance to see and even swim with these playful creatures under expert supervision.

Surrounded by incredible natural wonders like Flinders Chase National Park, Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch, and Kelly Hill Conservation Park, Emu Bay provides a perfect base to explore Kangaroo Island’s famed wildlife including seals, koalas, kangaroos, and echidnas. With easy access via daily ferries or flights from Adelaide, Emu Bay combines natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and outdoor adventure, making it not just a favorite among the south Australia best beaches but also a must-visit for anyone seeking pristine coastal experiences.

Stokes Bay is a hidden gem on Kangaroo Island’s north coast, voted Australia’s Best Beach in 2023, and renowned for its unique natural features. What makes Stokes Bay truly special is the secret entrance: guests follow a path through a labyrinth of large boulders and caves to emerge onto a sheltered beach with some of the whitest sand and clearest water you’ll find in South Australia. Protected from the open ocean by a giant natural rock pool, Stokes Bay offers calm, safe waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, making it ideal for families and adventurers alike.

The surrounding area boasts beautiful native bushland, including the Stokes Bay Bush Garden, where more than 150 native Kangaroo Island flowers can be admired, with seasonal orchids adding vibrant color in spring. Nearby attractions such as Paul’s Place, an educational wildlife sanctuary, and the Rare Breeds Farm provide visitors with opportunities to engage closely with Australia’s unique fauna, enhancing the experience beyond the beach.

After a day on the soft white sands, enjoy the cozy ambiance of the 120-year-old Fig Tree restaurant, open seasonally, or opt for more casual dining at The Rockpool Café. For accommodations, nearby Stowaway Kangaroo Island offers luxurious stays with stunning views to unwind and watch the sunset over Snellings Beach. Combining natural beauty, quiet seclusion, and nearby facilities, Stokes Bay is not just a beach but a complete coastal escape on Kangaroo Island.