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Best Things to Do in Goolwa: A Guide To The River Port
Come for the views, stay for the food and slower way of life; the best things to do in Goolwa are worth the drive.
Next time you find yourself on the Fleurieu Peninsula, set aside time to visit the charming yet sometimes-overlooked coastal town of Goolwa. Located just 20 minutes from Victor Harbor, or one hour from Adelaide, this locale moves slower than most. In 2007, Goolwa became the first Australian town to gain Cittaslow accreditation for promoting a slow, community-minded way of life.
There are many reasons to embrace the leisurely pace and escape for a weekend of great food, locally brewed drinks and history aplenty, so make the most of it with our trusty guide to the best things to do in Goolwa South Australia.
Best Things to Do in Goolwa: Eat & Drink
Slow Mover Coffee
This teeny tiny coffee shop makes up for its small size with brilliant coffee, country charm and friendly hospitality. You can catch the Slow Mover Coffee team at the Victor Harbor Markets on Saturdays, but every other day of the week, you’ll likely find yourself lured through the blue door by the smell of barista-brewed coffee – don’t forget to grab a sweet pastry go to!
4/1 Cadell Street, Goolwa
Hays St Bar & Kitchen
Hays St Bar & Kitchen is all about community, great wine, and European cuisine. Opened in October 2023, visitors are welcomed into a modern space adorned with exposed brick, warm finishes and the delicious food on offer.
The team are passionate about displaying the best seasonal, local produce, with a menu of dishes that evolve with the changing seasons. We are keen to try the Goolwa pipis with garlic butter served with crusty bread, and the braised lamb shoulder paired with yoghurt hummus and mint sauce. Yum.
7 Hays Street, Goolwa
Motherduck
You can’t visit Goolwa without stopping for a delicious meal at Motherduck (we don’t make the rules…) Located in a 105-year-old stone building in the middle of the town’s main street, this family-owned and run cafe serves up St Ali coffee and deliciously moreish meals made from locally-sourced, seasonal produce for breakfast through to lunch, Tuesday through to Sunday.
1/13 Cadell Street, Goolwa
Kuti Shack
When we say Kuti Shack is situated as close to Goolwa Beach as possible, we mean it. If you were any closer, you’d be dining on the sand! At this modern beach shack, kutis (or, pipis) are the standout item.
These small, edible saltwater clams are local to the area and are mouth-watering when you know how to prep and dress them. At Kuti Shack, the team create new and innovative pipi dishes paired with local indigenous ingredients.
Main Beach Carpark, Beach Road, Goolwa Beach
The Fleurieu Distillery
Located in the middle of Goolwa’s historic Wharf Precinct, The Fleurieu Distillery produces award-winning single malt whisky and gin, embracing its unique location to create maple and oak overtones with sear-air aromas. Stop by to try the distillery’s finest while enjoying the unrivalled water views for a relaxed afternoon in Goolwa.
1 Cutting Road, Goolwa
The Wharf Wine Bar
If you’re looking for water views, fuss-free drinks, friendly locals and loaded platters to nibble on, The Wharf Wine Bar is for you! Home to fine wines, craft beers, coffee and great food, this welcome, laidback space also hosts trivia nights, live music sessions and fun events – think Oktoberfest celebrations and pizza night!
7 Laurie Lane, Goolwa
Best Things to Do in Goolwa: Explore
Coorong National Park
Nature lovers, rejoice! Mere minutes from Goolwa, Coorong National Park and its abundant wildlife, bird-spotting opportunities, fishing spots and hiking trails await.
You can Canoe the Coorong to get up close to the large colony of pelicans that call the wetlands home or walk to the Murray Mouth Lookout for the best views of where the Murray River meets the Southern Ocean.
Coorong
Goolwa Wharf Markets
If you are in town for the first or third Sunday of the month – you’re in luck! Organised by the Rotary Club of Encounter Bay, there are over 80 stalls at the Goolwa Wharf Rotary Markets to find yourself a bargain.
The markets support local businesses, artists, and charitable initiatives, with a diverse range from bric-a-brac and collectibles to fresh organic produce. Whether you fancy handmade crafts, books, or a relaxing massage, these markets provide a great day out with local delights and charitable contributions.
First & third Sunday of each month, 9:00am – 2:00pm
Goolwa Wharf, Cutting Road, Goolwa
Twilight Cruise on PS Oscar W
Enjoy the lower Murray River by twilight aboard the PS Oscar W, an authentic wood-fired paddle steamer. Cruises onboard the PS Oscar W are available on selected dates each month. It’s a great way to catch up with friends or to include as part of a family holiday.
Bring along some nibbles too; wine can be purchased from The Wharf Wine Bar, with disposable wine glasses provided on board. It’s a must-do experience and one of our favourite ways to spend a couple of hours in Goolwa.
Book here
The Cockle Train
Hop aboard The Cockle Train and enjoy the stunning views of the Fleurieu Peninsula as you chug along the oceanfront. Dating back to 1954, The Cockle Train travels along Australia’s oldest steel-railed railway line.
Jump on the train at Goolwa and journey through Middleton and Port Elliot before arriving in Victor Harbor. The trip takes 30 minutes each way with tickets available on the day of travel. Bookings are not required.
Goolwa Railway Station Dunbar Road, Goolwa South Australia
Best Things to Do in Goolwa: Stay
Beach Huts Middleton
You can’t go past the charming village vibes at Beach Huts Middleton for a stress-free coastal escape. Unwind on your private deck with the soothing sounds of birds and waves, and enjoy the sanctuary of your private hut – each named after iconic coastal towns around Australia.
Head to the award-winning Blues Restaurant for a bite, or burn some energy with a hit of tennis or a stroll to Middleton Surf Beach. An easy 6-minute drive from Goolwa, a stay here guarantees a brilliant weekend away, close to local attractions and warm hospitality to welcome you.
Book your stay with Beach Huts
Book your stay with Booking.com
1 Charles Street, Middleton
Mill Estate
Take a turn off Goolwa’s main drag to find Mill Estate. This boutique accommodation is warm and oh-so cosy, making you feel right at home from the moment you check in.
There are two cottages to choose from: the three-bedroom Mill Cottage and the one-bed Abode. Both are a (literal) stone’s throw from town and the perfect place to unwind after a long working week.
Book your stay with Mill Estate
14 Crocker Street, Goolwa
Pago Middleton
Found yourself in the Goolwa and wanting to stay a little longer? Take Port Elliot Road for a few minutes and you’ll soon reach the luxury suites at Pago.
Featuring meticulously renovated rooms, this stunning accommodation has been created within the old Middleton stables. You’ll also find a swimming pool, spa and sauna within the grounds, where no detail has been left untouched. Pago is a beautiful base to explore the area while providing ample privacy when you need to rest and retreat.
Book your stay with Booking.com
29 Mill Terrace, Middleton
Did you love our guide to the best things to do in Goolwa? There’s more where that came from! Whether you’re planning your next Adelaide staycation or romantic retreat, discover scene-stealing scenery, world-class restaurants and stunning beaches right on our doorstep.
Our Sitchu editors work hard to deliver you the best products, events and venues that we hope you will love, each one is selected independently. Sitchu may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.
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