A travellers guide to Yorke Peninsula

If you haven’t heard, seen photos of, or read about the Yorke Peninsula, get ready to swoon after learning about this gold mine of a region in South Australia.

When you think of paradise – turquoise waters, crystal clear ocean floor, endless white sand beaches and so much blue you’re not sure where the horizon begins and ends; that is exactly what the sandy shores of Yorke Peninsula look like. And best yet, this area is super accessible only just an hour from Adelaide and its major airport. But there is more than just a beach on this peninsula, stick around to find out how to spend your summer holidays and where to park up your home on wheels at night.

Let’s chat all things Yorke Peninsula

Situated between the Spencer Gulf and Gulf St Vincent, the Yorke Peninsula stretches south towards Kangaroo Island for 5,834 km². It is home to over 25,000 residents, miles of farmland, rolling hills, and the Hummocks Range. As you can imagine with its remarkable beaches, the climate is very similar to the Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.

Its history begins with the Narungga people who are recognised as the traditional owners of the land which is shared across four clans: Guuranda, Dipla, Wari, and Windarra. Around 1840, European settlers arrived in the region which was named after a British politician.

What to do & what to see while exploring the Yorke Peninsula

Pack your swimmer’s team and don't forget your SPF 50+ because spending time at the beaches is a must. There are plenty more ways to spend your time during your Yorke Peninsula summer holiday. Let's get into it.

Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park

Stroll down boardwalks surrounded by local flora and fauna on the way to the beach at the Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, located at the southern tip of the peninsula. Day-trippers can expect to pay $12 to enter, which is accessible for all types of cars across the 94.15 km² of the park. This bird haven is teeming with hiking trails, bushwalks, campgrounds, picnic spots, lighthouses, and even a shipwreck! To make the most out of your time, stay for a night or more at one of the campgrounds dotted across the park.

Road trip down the coast

Whether your interests include fishing, small-town exploring, or simply beach bumming your way down the coast, a drive on this scenic peninsula is worth the effort. Cruise the east or the west side, or crisscross and see both. Pop into one of the towns such as Ardrossan, Port Vincent, and Wallaroo. You can book chartered fishing trips from Marion Bay, let the kids (and adults) have a day at the water park in Moonta and Port Broughton.

There is more... golf, putt-putt, surf, cycle and even hang out with some penguins on your own island holiday at Troubridge Island – there’s something fun for everyone.

Taste the local “water”

With South Australia’s ever-growing wine industry, it’s not surprising that vineyards have popped up on the Yorke Peninsula over the years. Visit the cellar door at Barley Stacks Wines and stay for wood-oven pizza. Sip on local craft spirits at the boutique micro-distillery aptly named Sunny Hill. Mix beer with gin cocktails (or maybe stick to one) at Bond Store in Wallaroo, a restaurant, brewery, and distillery all in one!

Beach paradises you don’t want to miss

If you’re keen for some R & R, a trip down to Hardwicke Bay on the southwestern part of Yorke Peninsula is a great place to start. Fewer crowds hang around this tiny seaside town and it’s easy to sink into the creamy soft sand, never wanting to go anywhere else. Dolphin Bay is another fave for its locals who tend to hop along the aquamarine waters. Heads up this one is located in the Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park.

Get spooked in Inneston

Inneston, also located in the national park, is a surprising place amongst the bush. It’s known for its blue, brackish lake and unique layered rock formations, but the real showstopper is the story behind this little mining town that’s apparently haunted. Test your fears by staying the night!

Where to call home for a night or more?

South Australian summers are best spent outdoors so here are a few campgrounds we highly recommend calling home on your holiday.

Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park campgrounds

Caravans, campers, and tents are all welcome at Cable Bay and Gym Beach both located in Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park. Spaces are limited and expect little facilities other than toilets, but falling asleep to the ocean waves does sound nice, doesn’t it? Or camp in the bush at Pondalowie Bay Bush (tents only) and enjoy a campfire as the sun sinks below the horizon.

Prices start at $17 for all non-powered campgrounds in the park.

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Hillocks Drive

Near Marion Bay and a short drive from Butler’s beach is Hillocks Drive where you’ll find plenty of peaceful bush campsites. Relax at quieter beaches while discovering clear water rock pools.

Prices start at $31 per night for all non-powered campgrounds.

BBQs, showers, picnic areas, and a shop are located at this property.

Wallaroo Beachfront Tourist Park

Power up at the beach in Wallaroo for under $40/night and enjoy the easy stroll into the town centre. Find a communal kitchen, showers, outdoor dining area, and more at this pet-friendly campground.

Prices start at $40 per night.

Full amenities block, kitchens, and outdoor areas.

Moonta Bay Holiday Park

Discover the Copper Coast region with a stay in Moonta Bay. Park your home of wheels at this beachside campground where you’ll find a playground, a safe swimming enclosure, a camp kitchen, and even a laundry facility. Plus, there’s plenty to see and do in this old mining town.

Prices start at $32 for campsites.

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Perfect for families with a kitchen, laundry, and safe swimming area.

You will find numerous campgrounds and holiday parks dotted across the Yorke Peninsula and never be far from an unspoiled beach on your summer holiday.

Search for the perfect van for your upcoming family adventures around Perth this summer and get ready to hit the road.