Unforgettable Road Trips in South Australia

Imagine yourself sitting behind the steering wheel, with the wind gently blowing through your hair and a world of breathtaking landscapes ahead of you. You’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the Flinders Ranges, stunning Limestone Coast beaches, natural Murray River landscapes, world-famous wine in the Barossa and a vibrant capital, Adelaide. Experience these incredible road trips South Australia has to offer, and you’ll be rewarded with picture-perfect coastline, rugged, otherworldly outback and lush rolling wine country; all that’s left to do is pack your bags and hit the road.

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Road trips to inspire your next trip

Be rewarded with wonder on one of South Australia’s six iconic road trips – or mix and match the curated guides to build your own journey.

Southern Ocean Drive

Southern Ocean Drive: see the Fleurieu, Limestone Coast and Kangaroo Island.

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Seafood Frontier

Explore Australia’s seafood frontier on the Eyre Peninsula and follow the stunning coastline on a mouth-watering safari.

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Mighty Murray Way

Follow one of the world’s longest rivers from the ever-changing Riverland region to the Murray Mouth.

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Epicurean Way

Feast your way through the culinary heart of South Australia along the Epicurean Way road trip.

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Explorers Way

Prepare for an epic Australian road trip through the heart of the outback on the Explorers Way.

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Coastal Way

Follow the Coastal Way road trip through Yorke Peninsula, along more than 700 km of coastline.

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Hit the road in comfort

Adelaide Airport has a range of car hire agencies, such as SIXT, Enterprise and Hertz, located inside the arrivals hall. To find them, head to the ground floor of the terminal, opposite the luggage claim area. Once you’ve filled out your documentation at the desk, you’ll be taken to your vehicle on the ground floor of the multi-story car park opposite the car hire agencies.

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Road Trip Itineraries

Southern Ocean Drive Road Trip

There’s something for everyone on the Limestone Coast, from prehistoric caves and a mysterious azure lake to sumptuous wine and fresh produce. You’ll witness the natural wonders of the Limestone Coast, experience the untouched wilderness of Kangaroo Island and discover the sea and vines of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Hit the road and prepare to have your breath taken away in amazement with these top things to see and do.

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Seafood Frontier Road Trip

The Eyre Peninsula’s oceanic utopia is about getting closer to nature, whether you’re swimming with the incredible sea life or lazing on pristine and uncrowded beaches. Enjoy the dazzling seafood at the region’s many restaurants or oysters plucked fresh from the ocean. Try a truly unique experience and cage dive with a great white shark – the only place in Australia to do this! Whatever your appetite, the Seafood Frontier road trip covers all the best things to see, do and taste along the way.

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Mighty Murray Way Road Trip

Stretching over 2500 kilometres from the Snowy Mountains to the Southern Ocean in South Australia, the Murray River offers a wide variety of landscapes. Here, you’ll find stunning scenery, microbreweries, gourmet produce, riverboats, cruises and a rich Aboriginal culture, history and heritage. The Mighty Murray Way embodies natural beauty and boasts a wealth of native produce and Australian wildlife, complete with all the best things to see and do in this breathtaking part of the world.

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Epicurean Way Road Trip

Foodies rejoice! Your tastebuds will never be the same again after you’ve explored the culinary delights of South Australia’s best wineries, restaurants and artisan produce. Iconic wine regions you’ll pass through include the world-famous McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills, Barossa and Clare Valley. Go on this deliciously decadent drive of the Epicurean Way road trip and discover all the best things to see, do, and, most importantly, taste along the way.

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Explorers Way Road Trip

Take the 3000km journey from Adelaide to Darwin and prepare to be mesmerised. You’ll get to taste your way through the Clare Valley with all its famous wines before hitting the spectacular Flinders Ranges and into the outback. You’ll want to make sure your camera is fully charged once you get here, as the vast untouched wilderness, far-reaching skies and wide-open road offers sights unlike anything else. Discover Explorers Way – perfect for the outdoor adventurer, complete with suggested stops and highlights.

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Coastal Way Road Trip

The best way to see some of the incredible South Australian coastline is on the iconic Coastal Way road trip! Feel the sand in your toes at the Yorke Peninsula’s oceanic playground and discover hidden beaches that make you feel like you’re the only one there. Throw in a line at Yorke Peninsula’s well-known fishing spots or discover secluded hideaways, quirky towns and sprawling national parks dotted along the coast. Explore this iconic road trip and find the best things to see and do.

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Rental Keys

Where to stay along your road trip

Sofitel Adelaide

8.6 Very good

Escape to luxury in the heart of Adelaide. With 2 chic bars, gourmet French restaurant, indoor pool, and the city’s most iconic experiences right on your doorstep, The Sofitel in Adelaide is the perfect place to stay.

from $280

Pirralilla Estate Adelaide Hills

9.4 Wonderful

Travel just 20 minutes from Adelaide’s CBD to Aldgate and be greeted by grandeur and serenity. This stylish retreat-style accomodation in the Adelaide Hills is close to nearby wineries, restaurants and walking trails.

Pullman Adelaide

8.4 Very good

Get ready to be in the centre of worldclass dining and culture. Located in Adelaide’s CBD, this luxury hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Rundle Mall and the cultural precint of North Terrace and the South Australian Museum.

from $175

The Farm Willunga

9.3 Wonderful

Relax at The Farm in Willunga and enjoy a slower place at one of the luxurious self-contained apartments, complete with restaurant and on-site activities.

from $293

Sea Dragon Kangaroo Island

9.3 Wonderful

Welcome to paradise! This boutique retreat sits on 250 acres of stunning coastal estate, with access to a secluded beach and premium continental breakfast with two-course dinner daily.

from $1,061

The Mill Apartments

9.2 Wonderful

Enjoy a relaxing stay as you explore the Clare Valley. These serviced apartments are close to the wineries, restaurants and art galleries.

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When to visit?

South Australia has a Mediterranean style climate with summers that are warm and dry and winters that are mild. It’s usually hotter in the north of the state in the outback and cooler in the south.

Autumn

Adelaide’s festival season is at its peak in Autumn. Balmy days and cooler nights are ideal for exploring a world-class event.

Winter

Winter is perfect for sipping on red wines by cozy fires or exploring the great outdoors and wildlife.

Spring

Spring brings bright burst of colour to the landscape with wildflowers and jacaranda trees in bloom.

Summer

South Australian summers are perfect for lazing on uncrowded beaches or enjoying a cold craft beer at a hidden bar.