South Australia is the ultimate getaway during the cooler months, and you have the beginnings of an epic southern road trip stretched out in front of you.
Following the coast from Port Wakefield to Port Broughton, the Coastal Way is just one of South Australia’s many iconic road trips. Spanning 460 scenic kilometres, consider the Coastal Way your roadmap for anything from a quick weekend getaway to a five-day tour.
We’ve broken the Coastal Way down into bite-sized road trips, all highlighting classic and quirky South Australian experiences. Whether you love a good cliffside walk, want to discover a shipwreck or shop for local art, wine and knick-knacks, choose the Coastal Way route that fits your vibe.
For the adventurous type with more time to spare, link the following road trips together to discover everything the Yorke Peninsula has to offer.
Trek Rocky Cliffs, Discover Shipwrecks And Become An Oyster Farmer
Port Wakefield to Edithburgh
Start your road trip in Port Wakefield by setting off along the pristine coastline to Ardrossan Lookout. Here you’ll get the lay of the land and see the first of many breathtaking views dotted along your journey. Stretch your legs at the Ardrossan Heritage Museum and explore shipwrecks before indulging in a wine-tasting at the family-run Emoyeni Wines.
For those who love some ocean action, the next stop in Port Vincent is a must. The old port is home to swimming and watersports locations teeming with wildlife. To truly immerse yourself in the Yorke Peninsula’s fishing culture, carry on down to Stansbury where you can join the crew aboard the Pacific Estate Oyster boat and farm your own seafood dinner.
To round out this stretch, catch the sunset in Edithburgh as you walk along the gorgeous rocky cliffs that overlook Troubridge Island. Book a stay on the island itself with Troubridge Island Escape and experience serene solitude broken only by the adorable penguin colony.
Discover Local Artists And Relax Beachside
Edithburgh to Marion Bay
Wake yourself up in Edithburgh by taking a dip in the tidal swimming pool or one of the many great swimming beaches along the coast. It may be chilly, but the chance for a seahorse 0r Port Jackson shark sighting and opportunity to swim amongst the unique sealife are well worth it. Warm up on your way to Warooka where you’ll find more pristine beaches, plus the art gallery Baker Bros where you can shop local and take home a unique souvenir to remind you of your travels. They also run walking and photography tours plus art workshops, so check their event schedule before your trip.
After enjoying classic pub fare at the historical Warooka Hotel, make your way to Marion Bay for an afternoon of swimming, surfing, and fishing. Here you’ll find more artistic gems at Studio Surf Art Gallery, a boutique gallery and cafe that shines a light on local creators who capture the coastline from every glorious perspective. Finish the day at the Marion Bay Tavern for fresh seafood and woodfired pizza with bay views. 
Explore A National Park And Brush Up On Local History
Marion Bay to Minlaton
Before you head off, you can’t leave Marion Bay without paying a lengthy visit to Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park. This picturesque pocket is where bush meets beach, a Coastal Way favourite for everything from fishing and surfing to camping, hiking, and wildlife-spotting. At the very least, make sure you visit Ethel Beach and the eponymous Ethel Beach Wreck for early morning dolphin pod-watching against magnificent coastal views.
On your way to Minlaton, stop off at Corny Point for lunch. This tiny seaside town is located on one of the most breathtaking beaches in the country. We strongly recommend grabbing a classic batch of fish and chips to eat on the shore.
After your cheeky pit-stop, roll into Minlaton for the afternoon. This quaint town is not only known as the barley capital of the world, but it also has a fascinating local history as the hometown of legendary WWI pilot, Harry Butler. Pull up a stool and order a pint at the Watsacowie Brewing Company to get your fill of local yarns.
Indulge in Wine Tastings, Craft Spirits, And A Spot Of Golf
Minlaton to Moonta Bay
This next section takes you inland to experience a whole new side of the South Australian landscape. Your first stop will take you to Barley Stacks Wines for a leisurely brunch—what better way to start the day than with a regional cheese platter or house-made pizza paired with a delicious local drop?
If you’re more of a spirit-sipper, head right on through to Sunny Hill Distillery just north of Arthurton. There, they serve up spirits crafted on-site with unbelievable views that reach all the way to Spencer Gulf.
The next leg of your journey will take you to Port Hughes, aka South Australia’s premium fishing hotspot. For those who have no interest in catching fish, Port Hughes has got you. Their local golf course, Copper Club, was designed by pro golfer Greg Norman and promises a scenic 18 holes. Tee up and take in a scenic day on the green before wrapping the afternoon up in Moonta Bay.
Learn How To Kitesurf & Eat Cornish Pasties
Moonta Bay to Port Broughton
Our final road trip itinerary kicks off in Moonta Bay. Here you’ll find more gorgeous shorelines primed for idyllic fishing, swimming and surfing experiences. Before you head off, make sure you visit one of the legendary local bakeries. Moonta is known for its Cornish pasties, and the reputation is well-deserved.
Your next stop is Wallaroo. Once again known for impressive beaches and a variety of water-based activities, there is plenty to do at this coastal escape. If you’re up for a challenge, book a lesson with Stoked Kitesurfing where the team will have you skimming waves in no time. For lunch, you can’t beat The Smelter for cosy cafe vibes paired with mouthwatering local bites.
Wrap your road trip up in Port Broughton for more seascapes and small-town vibes. If you’re not ready to end the travels just yet, head inland from Port Broughton to the Flinders Ranges for an otherwordly outback adventure.
Planning your own perfect South Australian road trip? Check out the Trip Planner and map your perfect journey. You can also check out the Coastal Way itinerary for more stops and sights along the Yorke Peninsula.
Editor’s note: this article was produced in partnership with South Australia. Thank you for supporting the partners who make The Urban List possible. To read our editorial policy, click here.
Image credit: Supplied