Ultimate South Australia Road Trip Guide 🚙☀️

Ultimate South Australia Road Trip Guide 🚙☀️

If you're hitting the road in South Australia with a car (even a 2WD), get ready for epic beaches, rugged outback views, and some cozy, free camping spots. Here’s a bucket list itinerary that’ll make your trip unforgettable:

🌊 Coastal Adventures

1. Sellicks Beach – Drive right onto the sand and set up for the day. Sunsets here are unreal. And the coast looks like from a different world. 
2. Beachport – Salmon Beach – Crystal clear waters and a refreshing swim? Yes, please!
3. Willunga Beach – Charming coastal vibes. Head to the Port for sunset drinks.
4. Second Valley – Short hike, stunning cliffs, turquoise water — perfect for a swim and some epic photos. Such a dreamy drive!
5. Dolphin Bay, Innes National Park – Crystal-clear water, wildlife, and that "hidden gem" vibe.
6. Vivonne Bay, Kangaroo Island – Worth the ferry trip! White sand, turquoise waters, and seals chilling nearby.

🏜️ Outback & Nature

7. St. Mary Peak, Flinders Ranges – The ultimate sunrise hike. Panoramic views that’ll make you feel on top of the world.
8. Lake Eyre – Australia’s largest salt lake. When it’s dry, it looks like another planet; when it's full, it's a rare sight.
9. Coober Pedy – Underground homes, opal mines, and the quirkiest desert town you’ll ever visit.
10. Mount Remarkable National Park – Easy hikes, lush gorges, and plenty of wildlife.

🌟 Unique Stops

11. Most Southern Point of South Australia (Cape Northumberland) – Stand at the edge of the state, with the ocean roaring below.
12. Port Lincoln, Eyre Peninsula – Go cage diving with great white sharks (if you’re brave enough) or chill with sea lions.
13. Kangaroo Island – Wildlife, beaches, and the iconic Remarkable Rocks.
14. Barossa Valley – Wine tasting, cute towns, and rolling vineyards. Treat yourself!

🏕️ Free Camping Spots (2WD-friendly!)

• Pink Gum Campground (Onkaparinga River National Park) – Super peaceful and close to the beaches.
• Rapid Bay Campground – Right by the beach, perfect for snorkeling and chilling.
• Port Gibbon Beach – Free beachside camping with fire pits and insane sunsets.
• Greenly Beach – A local’s favorite on the Eyre Peninsula. Wild, rugged, and absolutely beautiful.
• Point Brown – Remote, free, and right by the ocean. Watch the stars and fall asleep to the sound of waves.

🔥 Extra Road Trip Tips

• Best time to go: Autumn (March-May) and Spring (September-November) have mild weather and fewer crowds.
• Fuel & supplies: Outback stretches can be long — fill up whenever you can, and keep extra water and snacks handy.
• Wildlife watch: Sunrise and sunset are prime times for kangaroos and emus near roads. Drive carefully!
• Packing tip: Don’t forget layers, swim gear, and a good camera — and check out my vanlife packing list: click here!
• Offline maps: Reception can drop in remote areas. Download maps before you head off (Maps.me and Google Maps work great).

🎧 Road Trip Vibes 

Don’t forget to make a killer playlist (hello, road trip anthems), pack snacks, and let the adventure unfold. South Australia’s got everything — beaches, outback, wildlife, and those laid-back road trip feels.

Ready to hit the road? 🚘✨

Let me know about your trip !!! Your Xenia