Sun, Sand and Smiles: Discover Adelaide's 5 Best Beaches!
- Morne de Klerk
- May 18
- 4 min read
G'day beach lovers and sun seekers! If you thought Adelaide was all about rolling hills and fantastic wine, think again! Our city is blessed with a stunning coastline dotted with beautiful beaches, each offering its own unique charm and a perfect escape whether you're a visitor craving that Aussie beach vibe or a local looking for your next seaside adventure.
So, grab your sunscreen, your favourite towel, and get ready to explore our top 5 picks for Adelaide's best beaches, along with all the info you need to get there and soak up the rays!
1. Glenelg: The Classic Seaside Escape
Ah, Glenelg! It's practically synonymous with Adelaide beaches and for good reason. This iconic spot offers a fantastic blend of sandy shores, vibrant atmosphere, and plenty of attractions.
Why You'll Love It: Glenelg boasts a long, sandy beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The jetty is a must-stroll, offering great views and fishing opportunities. The foreshore is buzzing with cafes, restaurants, shops, and the ever-popular Beachouse amusement park.
How to Get There:
Tram: The easiest and most iconic way! Hop on the Glenelg tram from the city centre. It's a direct and scenic ride that drops you right in the heart of Glenelg.
Bus: Several bus routes service Glenelg from various parts of Adelaide. Check the Adelaide Metro website for the best options from your location.
Car: It's an easy drive from the city, with ample (though sometimes paid) parking available, especially along the foreshore and side streets.
2. Henley Beach: Relaxed Vibes and Gourmet Delights
Just a short hop north of Glenelg, Henley Beach offers a more laid-back and sophisticated vibe. It's a favourite among locals for its beautiful beach and trendy Henley Square precinct.
Why You'll Love It: Henley boasts a wide, sandy beach ideal for swimming and leisurely walks. The Henley Square has undergone a fantastic redevelopment and is now home to some of Adelaide's best beachfront restaurants, cafes, and bars. It's the perfect spot for a sunset dinner with ocean views. The Henley jetty is also great for a stroll.
How to Get There:
Bus: Several bus routes connect Henley Beach to the city and other coastal suburbs. Check the Adelaide Metro website for specific routes.
Car: It's an easy drive west from the city, with parking available around Henley Square and along the Esplanade.
3. Brighton Beach: Family Fun and Jetty Jumps
Brighton Beach is a fantastic choice for families and those looking for a classic Aussie beach experience with a friendly atmosphere.
Why You'll Love It: Brighton features a wide, safe beach perfect for kids to play. The Brighton Jetty is a popular spot for fishing and you often see young people jumping off the jetty to cool down (always check for safety guidelines!). The nearby Jetty Road offers a great selection of shops, cafes, and ice cream parlours.
How to Get There:
Train: Take the Seaford train line and get off at Brighton station. It's a short and pleasant walk down to the beach.
Bus: Several bus routes also service Brighton. Check the Adelaide Metro website for details.
Car: An easy drive south-west from the city with parking available near the beach and along Jetty Road.
4. Semaphore: History, Heritage & Wide Sands
Venture a little further north and you'll discover the charming seaside town of Semaphore, boasting a wide, sandy beach and a rich history.
Why You'll Love It: Semaphore's beach is vast, offering plenty of space for everyone. The Semaphore Road is lined with beautiful Victorian-era buildings housing quirky shops, cafes, and pubs. The iconic Semaphore Jetty is perfect for a walk, and the Semaphore Foreshore often hosts family-friendly events and festivals. Don't miss the historic carousel and the Semaphore Steam Train!
How to Get There:
Train: Take the Outer Harbor train line and get off at Semaphore station. It's a short walk to the beach and Semaphore Road.
Bus: Several bus routes connect Semaphore to other parts of Adelaide. Check the Adelaide Metro website.
Car: A straightforward drive north-west from the city with ample parking available.
5. Port Noarlunga: Reef Adventures & Coastal Beauty
For a beach experience with a difference, head south to Port Noarlunga. This gem is renowned for its stunning coastline and the unique aquatic reserve just offshore.
Why You'll Love It: Port Noarlunga boasts a beautiful beach, but its real drawcard is the reef, easily accessible from the jetty. It's a fantastic spot for snorkelling and diving, offering the chance to explore colourful marine life. The surrounding cliffs and coastal scenery are also breathtaking. The Port Noarlunga township has a relaxed, artistic vibe with charming cafes and shops.
How to Get There:
Train: Take the Seaford train line all the way to the end at Seaford station. From there, you can catch a connecting bus (route 750) to Port Noarlunga or enjoy a slightly longer walk (around 20-30 minutes).
Bus: Direct bus routes (like the 750) also operate from various southern suburbs to Port Noarlunga. Check the Adelaide Metro website.
Car: It's a scenic drive south of Adelaide, taking around 30-40 minutes. There is parking available in Port Noarlunga.
So there you have it – your guide to 5 of Adelaide's best beaches! Whether you're after family fun, a relaxed vibe, historical charm, or underwater adventures, our coastline has something for everyone. So pack your bags, choose your beach, and get ready to soak up the South Australian sunshine! Which beach will you explore first? Let us know in the comments below!
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