hit the best beaches in south australia
South Australia is home to some of the most beautiful and varied coastline in the country, making it a dream destination for beachside camping. From long stretches of soft sand to quiet coves framed by rugged cliffs, there’s no shortage of places to park up, unwind and let the rhythm of the ocean set the pace.
Planning a weekend escape or a longer coastal adventure? Camping by the beach offers a unique mix of freedom, simplicity and connection to the outdoors. Waking to the sound of waves, spending your days exploring rock pools or coastal trails, and watching the sun dip below the horizon from your campsite is what coastal travel is all about!
We’ve rounded up five of the best beaches in South Australia for camping – each offering its own blend of scenery, accessibility and unforgettable seaside atmosphere.
1. normanville
If you’re travelling with young kids, enjoy fishing or are simply looking for a great beachside getaway, Normanville Jetty Caravan Park is the place to be. The beach barely has any waves, making it a great place for kids to have some fun in the water.
For those who enjoy fishing, there is a small jetty that is great for fishing at the right time. Shore fishing is also quite popular at this beach. And, if you want to enjoy some beachside meals, there is an excellent café!
It is also worth noting that if you are launching and retrieving boats, you can actually drive on parts of the beach.
2. perlubie beach
Some of the best beach camping spots in South Australia are found in the Eyre Peninsula. You will have your pick of every shade of blue water, endless camping spots and long stretches of beautiful sandy beaches.
For the best beachfront camping, Perlubie beach tops the list. The area has calm waters that make it a great spot for some family-friendly fun, and you can enjoy breathtaking taking views of the, sea, sunrise and sunset. If you have a boat, you can easily launch and retrieve it as well.
For a true camping experience, caravanning enthusiasts can set up their barbeque grill and cook up some freshly caught crab or snapper.
3. vivonne bay
Escape to Kangaroo Island and discover the breathtaking beauty of Vivonne Bay, where turquoise waters meet sweeping stretches of pristine white sand. This peaceful coastal haven offers the kind of scenery that instantly slows the pace and invites you to truly unwind.
Spend your time swimming in calm, crystal-clear waters, casting a line from the jetty, or simply soaking up the natural surrounds. With its relaxed atmosphere and postcard-perfect setting, Vivonne Bay is an unforgettable stop for anyone camping their way around Kangaroo Island.
4. port elliot
Looking for a great beachfront caravan park that is also great for walking around? Port Elliot Holiday Park is that place. The park has wide grassed beachfront sites with paths over the dunes onto the sand with awesome views of Horseshoe Bay.
In addition to having great walking paths, Port Elliot is also a short walk away, there is also a playground and park right next to this caravan park as well. You can also enjoy fishing at the small jetty, or explore some of the historic shipwrecks around Horseshoe Bay.
5. port vincent
Located on a stretch of land that has waterfront on both sides – with cabins facing a beach populated by pelicans and caravans facing a sheltered bay – Foreshore Caravan Park in Port Vincent, is another great option for caravanning enthusiasts. Your van will be separated from the beach and the water, by a small wall and a few terraced steps, if you get a prime beachfront site at the park.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of beach and water activities including crabbing, fishing, boating, paddle boarding, swimming and sailing. You can also explore the nearby town and enjoy some dining and shopping.
ready for your next coastal adventure?
With these top five beachside camping and caravan parks in South Australia in mind, planning your next family getaway becomes that much easier. Whether you’re dreaming of relaxed coastal mornings or long summer days by the water, the right caravan can help you make the most of every moment away.
If you’re looking for a caravan that suits your travel plans, the team at Great Southern RV is here to help. For the best caravans for sale in Adelaide, give us a call today at 08 7231 0226 or leave an enquiry to start planning your adventure.