South Australia is known for having it all; incredible Outback scenery at the Flinders Ranges, some of Australia's finest wine-making regions such as McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley, cosmopolitan city-life perfectly positioned on the coast at Adelaide, and iconic Aussie wildlife bounding freely across the state, but especially on Kangaroo Island.
In fact, it is a state that has so much of everything, that choosing where to visit can be a challenge, which is why we've picked our favorite South Australia destinations and places to stay for culture, food & wine, wilderness, wildlife, nightlife, seclusion, and more. Keep reading to discover the amazing experiences that South Australia has to offer.
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Wildlife - Kangaroo Island is teeming with iconic Aussie wildlife, bounding freely across its natural habitat, thanks to the fact that one-third of the island is protected as conservation and national parks, and half the island has never been cleared of native vegetation. Look for small wallabies almost extinct on the mainland, a kangaroo found only on Kangaroo Island, the quill-covered echidna, and a variety of other birds, plants and animals, including koalas, as featured in image above, taken by recent traveler, Christopher Thurber in March 2023.
Be one of the first to stay at the impeccably appointed and newly reopened Southern Ocean Lodge, starting from December 2023. Located on the western side of the island, you will be close to unmissable Kangaroo Island sites such as the Remarkable Rocks and the stunning Hanson Bay. Or, revel in the seclusion of Sea Dragon Lodge, a retreat on the peaceful eastern side of Kangaroo Island. Enjoy quiet sunsets with the beautiful sounds of the ocean lapping below your villa, perched above the lodge's private beach.
Epic Landscapes - The Flinders Ranges are one of Australia’s most ancient landscapes, molded by hundreds of millions of years of geological activity, and also home to some of the most spectacular outback scenery in the country. Driving through the Flinders Ranges, towering ancient cliffs and deep craters border dusty red roads. Discover unspoiled wilderness brimming with wildlife such as kangaroos, emus, unique bird species and reptiles. Pass through historic towns that hark back to the pioneering days, and then along the coastal road see old ports and seaside towns.
While here, stay at Arkaba, a 60,000 acre sheep ‘station,’ its craggy sandstone bluffs and dry creek beds lined with River Red Gums are a quintessential Australian scene, while the geological amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound lies on the northern boundary of the property.
Seclusion - The Barossa Valley combines old world charm with world-class wine. Luxury Australian wine labels, including Penfolds, Henschke, and Rockfords, are proud vineyards whose rows of grapevines call these rolling hills home. For the ultimate relaxation and seclusion in this quiet part of the country, The Louise is the ideal accommodation and has developed a unique experience, Breakfast with the Kangaroos, that offers guests access to one of the simple pleasures of visiting regional Australia and seeing kangaroos up close in their natural habitat.
Food & Wine - For food and wine, there’s no better place to situate yourself than the Adelaide Hills, a region currently being considered for UNESCO World Heritage status. The area’s significance highlights its working agricultural (food and wine) landscapes, historic settlements, abundant wildlife, pure environment and continuing culture and practice.
Stay at the lofted Sequoia Lodge, offering guests a journey of discovery based around the region’s iconic food and wine, wellness, history and vast nature experiences. While being seemingly removed from the hustle and bustle of the world, Sequoia sits on the side of Mount Lofty, high above the Piccadilly Valley in the Adelaide Hills, giving its guests panoramic views over the majestic valley.
Rugged Outback - With its iconic Organ Pipe rock formations, seasonal lakes and waterfalls, and Aboriginal history and culture, the Gawler Ranges is rugged and expansive, waiting to be explored. This national park is home to rare Australian wildlife such as the crimson mallee and the yellow-footed rock-wallaby, thanks to its wildlife conservation program.
Lively Nightlife - Known as Australia’s Festival City, Adelaide lives up to its legacy. The awesome Adelaide Festival of the Arts, one of the city’s 400 events, is a 17-day buffet of ballads and bands, drama and dance and features exclusive Australian and international performances. Coinciding with the Festival of Arts, Adelaide welcomes the weird and wonderful at the Adelaide Fringe Festival, the second-largest independent arts festival in the world. Stay at The Mayfair, a five-star boutique hotel located right in the heart of Adelaide and moments from its lively shopping and restaurant scene.
