The Best Things to do on the Yorke Peninsula

Regarded as one of the most beautiful destinations in South Australia, the Yorke Peninsula is a stunning stretch of land located northwest of Adelaide, boasting nearly 700 km of pristine coastline along the Gulf St Vincent and Spencer Gulf. This enchanting region features world-famous sandy beaches, gentle rolling hills, and charming towns offering cosy accommodations, making it the perfect getaway.

Just a 90-minute drive from the city, the Yorke Peninsula serves as a dreamy escape for those craving a break from urban life, whether for a family weekend, a joyful road trip with friends, or simply to immerse oneself in nature’s splendour.

With so much to explore, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. That’s why we’ve curated an extensive list of things to do on the Yorke Peninsula—so load up the car and start making notes for your next adventure!

Cycle around the region

Copper Trails Bike Hire is a small biking experience service operating in the Yorke Peninsula. They offer a variety of bikes for personal hire, including modern E-Bikes...and it's a fantastic way to get active and explore. 

They are continuously developing small local group tours as more infrastructure is developed within the Copper Coast, and more broadly the Yorke Peninsula.

For people who choose to cycle it up, it's also a fantastic opportunity to be immersed in the local food and culture of the region. 

40 George Street, Moonta

Go on an Ocean Safari tour to see dolphins leap out of the water

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the Yorke Peninsula and discover the breathtaking views Mother Nature has to offer as Marion Bay Ocean Safari seeks out the region's vibrant marine life.

This scenic coastal tour and wildlife experience is operated by the dedicated and highly experienced team at Reef Encounters Fishing Charters - and it's one of the best things to do in the Yorke Peninsula. 

Set against the stunning backdrop of Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, this tour offers an abundance of exciting sightseeing opportunities to view impressive wildlife, marine life, and panoramic views. 

Pondalowie Fisherman's Village, Inneston

Stand on the clifftops at Balgowan Beach

Balgowan is a small sleepy town located south of Moonta Bay...and it's sneakily got one of the coolest beaches in the Yorke Peninsula. 

It's a cracking fishing spot, where you can book a fishing charter leaving from the beach; a popular thing to do in the Yorke Peninsula, no matter the season. Or, if you have your own, launch your boat at high tide.

The cliffs of Balgowan Beach are particularly stunning. Head up to the top for a sunrise or sunset you won't soon forget. 

Balgowan, Yorke Peninsula

Walk the Yorke and find the beauty below

If staying active on a trip is your style, Walk the Yorke covers almost 500km of cycling and walking trails – all you have to do is choose your starting point, grab your walking shoes and camera and get those steps in. You’ll earn that glass of wine at the end of the day, after challenging yourself on trails that provide epic views. The kids will love a slightly less challenging walk along Whyalla Jetty. Designed to stand out, the jetty features a unique circular design not seen anywhere else in the Southern Hemisphere. The visitor centre has brochures with more information, but we suggest simply walking the jetty on a sunny day, trying to spot sea creatures below as you go.

Visit Moonta Bay Jetty

This long 'L' shaped jetty is well worth the visit when it comes to things to do in the Yorke Peninsula. Whether it's a simple jetty stroll, to view a spectacular sunset or even for a spot of fishing, there are a wealth of cute activities to be had here. There is even a swimming enclosure off the side of the jetty.

On the south side of the jetty the beach expands all the way to Port Hughes.

Bay Road, Moonta Bay

Visit one of Australia's best beaches

Nope – that isn’t a typo! In 2022, the truly breathtaking Flaherty Beach, found right at the top of the peninsula, was awarded a top four place on a list of best beaches in Australia by Tourism Australia. It’s not hard to see why. Home to some of the whitest sand and clearest water you'll ever see, you can walk through shallow postcard-perfect blue water across sand banks that seem to go on forever. It’s a gem that locals love, and we're proud that South Australia gets to call this beautiful spot its own.

But the great beaches don’t stop there – you can also visit Ethel Beach, surrounded by rugged cliffs – and named so after the ship that made its final resting place just off shore; and Shell Beach, which offers stunning views of neighbouring Browns Beach when you climb atop the dunes.

Then there's Dolphin Bay, Pondalowie Bay and Cap Clairout at the Corny Point Lighthouse...the bounty of beautiful seascapes are endless!

There's a reason why taking a summer swim or brisk beach walk is an absolute essential on the list of things to do in the Yorke Peninsula. 

Settle in for an afternoon tasting session

It wouldn’t be very South Australian of us not to mention somewhere to get a drink when discussing things to do on the Yorke Peninsula. Fortunately, for wine and beer lovers, there’s an array of fantastic wineries and breweries to explore.

Award-winning Barley Stacks Wine is open daily, offering tastings, electric car chargers, and delicious pizzas and cheese platters at the cellar door. Be sure to try their Shiraz or Chardonnay for a laid-back afternoon.

Sunny Hill Distillery is a must-visit for smooth spirits, featuring vodka, rum, and whiskey. Their tasting room is the perfect spot to enjoy an extensive list of creative cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere, making it easy to settle in for the long haul.

Don’t miss Wastacowie Brewery, the first independently owned microbrewery on the Yorke Peninsula. Located near the coast, you can enjoy a variety of in-house brewed beers, with dog-friendly seating and often a food truck on weekends.

Lastly, The Bond Store at Wallaroo combines a restaurant, microbrewery, and distillery. With a focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a place you won’t want to leave, likely making a few new friends along the way.

Experience Nature’s Splendor at Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park

There’s nothing quite like spending time in nature to rejuvenate the soul. Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park is one of the best destinations on the Yorke Peninsula, offering a serene escape from daily stress.

This stunning park is perfect for all kinds of outdoor adventures—think camping, fishing, hiking, and surfing. Explore lighthouses, swim at beautiful beaches, and admire the azure waters of Lake Inneston. Don’t miss the chance to wander through the historic abandoned township of Inneston or, if you’re feeling adventurous, dive into the waters to discover 20 shipwrecks off the coast.

For a unique experience, venture to Shell Beach, where magical rock pools await. Though the journey over rocky terrain may be challenging, the crystal-clear waters and vibrant biodiversity will leave you in awe.

Open daily, with an entry fee of $13 per vehicle

Bring the kids along for some family fun 

With endless amounts of sea, sand and surf, the Yorke Peninsula is a playground the whole family can enjoy, with so much for kids to see and do.. While the beach is our pick of the best way to spend the day with the little ones, that’s not all there is on offer.

During the summer months Splash Town at Moonta Bay is the place to be, a water park by the ocean that's a seriously fun way to cool down. There's also an 18-hole mini golf course on the Copper Coast, or you can all bundle aboard The Moonta Mines Tourist Railway.

Don't forget to make a splash at Edithburgh Tidal Pool

If the kids love the ocean but are perhaps a little scared of what creatures may be sharing the water with them, or aren’t yet strong swimmers, the Edithburgh Tidal Pool is another obvious winner for things to don in the Yorke Peninsula. The only tidal pool in South Australia, the area is complete with toilets, lawn area, and BBQ facilities. 

7 O'Halloran Parade, Edithburgh

Stay in some seriously luxurious accommodation

Whether you prefer glamping or sturdy walls with all the creature comforts, the Yorke Peninsula has the perfect accommodation for you. For rustic coastal luxury, Love and Mutiny is a charming 1950s beach house that welcomes guests with warmth. Its colourful interiors, designed by Read and Hall, promise delightful details and 360-degree views of pristine beachfront.

If glamping is more your style, Bayside Glamping offers comfortable tents complete with queen-size beds, fairy lights, and amenities for a cosy stay. There’s even a nearby tiny cabin powered by solar energy and rainwater for an off-the-grid experience.

For those seeking an architectural gem, Yondah Beach House spans 300 acres of coastal land, featuring a private beach and stunning views of Kangaroo Island. With a roaring fire and clifftop position ideal for spotting whales and dolphins, it’s a dream retreat for groups of up to six (or eight with rollaway beds).

Visit the Pink Lakes region

Just a short drive of less than two hours from Adelaide, Lake Bumbunga on the Yorke Peninsula boasts bubblegum pink shores that even Barbie herself would envy! This stunning lake in Lochiel attracts a diverse crowd, from casual photographers capturing its beauty to high-end fashion brands looking for that perfect backdrop. What’s truly magical is the lake’s ever-changing hues, shifting from pink to white to blue depending on the water’s salinity throughout the year.

But Lake Bumbunga isn't the only gem in the area! The charming town of Yorketown is surrounded by over 200 salt lakes, creating the enchanting Yorke Peninsula Salt Lake Trail. This vibrant trail offers four selected routes showcasing lakes that span the entire colour spectrum—from deep purples to brilliant blues, fiery oranges to shimmering whites, and, of course, delightful pinks. Follow the trail and discover the best vantage points for unforgettable photo opportunities—it's undoubtedly one of the coolest adventures in the Yorke Peninsula!

Tee-off with a round of golf

Okay, we know this one might not be for everyone, but with many golf courses around, it really is one of the most popular things to do in the Yorke Peninsula – particularly as the sun starts shining. You can go for a relaxed and casual hit at Port Broughton Golf Club or Edithburgh Golf Club, but for a memorable day on the green you can’t look past the Copperclub at the Dunes in Port Hughes.

Recognised as one of the best golf courses in South Australia, Copperclub is a Greg Norman designed beauty offering visitors and members a pristine place to play by the coast. When you’ve completed your round on the green, head to The Deck for a refreshing beverage and a meal as you soak up the views of Cape Elizabeth. 

Join a fishing charter, or farm for fresh oysters

We weren’t exaggerating when we said the Yorke Pensinsula is home to some seriously fresh food – and the seafood in particular is top tier in this part of the world. This explains why taking a fishing charter out or visiting an oyster farm are some of the more popular things to do in the Yorke Peninsula. Take a drive to Pacific Estate Oysters in Stansbury to experience being a ‘Deckie for a Day’ and learn everything there is to know about oysters – including how they grow, sustainable farming and most importantly just how good a fresh oyster tastes straight out of the water. You can stay dry on board or jump in the shallows and find your own oysters to shuck.

If oysters aren’t your thing but throwing out a line is, join Reef Encounters Fishing Charter at Pondalowie Bay for a day out on the water, with experienced and friendly staff who will be there to guide you in catching your dinner for the evening. The waters here are brimming with snapper, kingfish, whiting, flathead and gummy sharks – just to name a few.

The Yorke Peninsula is one of the most picturesque regions of South Australia to explore, but the beauty in this state doesn’t stop here. Why not discover some of the best winter holiday destinations in South Australia, or plan a getaway to the sublime Kangaroo Island?