Tired of fighting for parking at Henley Beach? Over wine tours packed with Instagrammers? We’ve scouted SA’s best-kept secrets—all within two hours of Adelaide. Pack the esky!
Beaches Beyond the Crowds
Second Valley (1hr 15min south):
- Why go? Turquoise lagoons, limestone cliffs, and fossil hunting.
- Local tip: Snorkel the “Fish Bowl” at low tide (masks for hire at Leonard’s Mill kiosk).
- Eat: The Marina Café’s squid-ink burger.
Port Willunga (50min south):
- Why go? Cliffside caves and sunset picnics.
- History buffs: Explore the 1853 shipwreck anchors on the shore.
Wineries Without the Wait
Battle of Bosworth (McLaren Vale, 50min south):
- Organic since 1993: Try their “Puritan” Shiraz (no additives, $32).
- Hidden feature: A 2km sculpture trail through the vines.
Salopian Inn (McLaren Vale):
- Garden-to-table: Chef Karena Armstrong’s heirloom tomato salad is legend.
- Stay: Book the attic suite ($220/night) for stargazing from a clawfoot tub.
Hikes You’ve Never Heard Of
Deep Creek’s Waterfall Hike (1hr 45min south):
- Trail: 5km loop to 20m-high falls (swim in natural pools).
- Wildlife: Spot echidnas and 100+ bird species.
Mount Crawford Forest (1hr 10min north):
- Mountain biking: 50km of pine-shaded trails (rent bikes at Forest HQ).
- Forage: Autumn truffle tours with “Truffle Ted” (June-August).
Local Wisdom
- Avoid weekends: Visit gems on weekdays for solitude.
- Leave no trace: Many spots lack bins—pack a trash bag.
- Support small: Buy jams at Willunga Farmers Market (Saturdays).
“Tourists stick to the same 10 places,” says travel blogger Gemma Pike. “But SA’s magic is in its quiet corners.”
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