Named one of the world’s ‘must-visit’ destinations in the Traveller Review Awards, South Australia easily ranks as a top road trip destination. From world-famous vineyards to star gazing experiences and swimming with giant cuttlefish, you’ll find an open road itinerary of natural wonder, culture and pure joy. Get a taste of an ultimate South Australian road trip by hitting the road in Adelaide, winding your way through the Riverland gem of Barmera and then onto the Spencer Gulf towns of Port Augusta and Whyalla.
Adelaide
Fugazzi Bar & Dining Room. Image: Julian Cebo
Known as an historic city with abundant heritage, Adelaide is today also recognised as a cultural hub celebrated for food and wine experiences and dynamic city attractions. Sample the surrounding region by heading in the direction of the Adelaide Hills - just 15 minutes from the heart of town you’ll find Penfolds Magill Estate Cellar Door. Famous for being the pioneering vineyard that produced acclaimed Penfolds Grange in 1951, this cellar door is a great place to taste the crisp, earthy flavours of the cool-climate Adelaide wine region.
For an attraction of a different kind take a trip to Australia’s second oldest zoo - the Adelaide Zoo is home to over 2000 animals and 200 species of exotic animals. Extending over eight hectares of gorgeous parkland surroundings, two of the most famous residents are Yi Lan and Xing Qiu, Australia’s only pair of Giant Pandas. Say hello to the two playful Adelaide zoo pandas, who made their celebrated debut in 2025, on an early morning tour or stroll through the zoo’s peaceful Bamboo Forest. You can also join a tour to learn more about the zoo’s tigers, orangutans and giraffes.
In recent years, Adelaide’s dining scene has evolved to become a foodie hub with international flair. You can enjoy some of its culinary experiences at Fugazzi restaurant, one of Adelaide’s top places to eat. Drawing inspiration from the New York’s Italian bars and dining rooms,and co-owned by Masterchef contender Laura Sharrad, this nostalgic but lavish menu tomahawk steak to gnocco frito), has already drawn stars such as Axl Rose and Jimmy Barnes.
Where to stay
Find the perfect Adelaide accommodation close to great things to do in Adelaide, with a good choice of comfortable inns, stylish suites and historic boutique hotels.
Barmera
Adelaide to Barmera 229 km / 2 hours 30 mins
Lake Bonney. Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Adam Bruzzone
Known as the ‘Jewel of the Riverland’, Barmera ushers you into gorgeous river country. It’s also well known for the beautiful Lake Bonney, a large coastal lake in the heart of the Riverland region and a great place to enjoy a kayak or bike ride. Don’t miss Lake Bonney at night - far from the city lights the sky comes alive with stars here, making it a well known destination for stargazing and astrophotography.
A short drive takes you to the 23rd Street Distillery Renmark. Steeped in history, this distillery is well known for acclaimed gins and spirits and the distillery’s 100 year-old copper pots - so it’s not surprising that it’s known for being one of the best things to do in Renmark! Close to Barmera, the Overland Corner Hotel is a classic limestone pub built in 1856, refurbished in style and home to some great beers and bistro meals.
Where to stay
Base yourself in comfortable accommodation in Barmera at the Comfort Inn & Suites Riverland. Enjoy golf course views, a seasonal outdoor pool, and tennis courts - all close to the Lake Bonney South Australia style activities and other things to do in Barmera.
Port Pirie
Barmera to Port Pirie 290 km / 3 hours 10 mins
Port Pirie National Trust Museum. Image: Port Pirie Regional Council
The gateway to the Flinders Ranges, and named after the ship that brought settlers here in 1845, you’ll find some fascinating things to do in Port Pirie on the way to Port Augusta - making this a great stop off. For those wanting to explore the area further, this historic town is also surrounded by wineries and drives such as the Heritage Rail Trail, which follows the remains of Port Pirie railway line.
The town is rich with maritime history, and you’ll be taken back to the early colonial beginnings when you step into the Port Pirie National Trust Museum. Housed in the old 1882 Customs House and Central Police Station, this museum is home to a narrow-gauge steam shunting engine and locally discovered dinosaur bones. You can enjoy a relaxed waterside break at the Portside Tavern, with a range of seafood dining as well as pub-styled fare including an open grill, fantastic burgers and seafood platters.
Port Augusta
Port Pirie to Port Augusta: 90 km / 1 hour
Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden. Image from: Tourism Australia / South Australian Tourism Commission
Situated at the head of the Spencer Gulf, Port Augusta is a place of natural marvels and hometown comforts. The Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden is home to a thriving ecosystem of exotic desert flowers from across the Flinders Ranges, Great Victoria Desert and the Simpson Desert. Walking trails offer stunning views of the Flinders Ranges and Spencer Gulf and there are guided tours along the red cliff walk. Refresh yourself in the cafe that serves native-inspired food.
Not far from the gardens, you can walk or drive up to the dramatic Matthew Flinders Red Cliff Lookout. These vibrant red cliffs overlook the upper Spencer Gulf, offering a great spot for a picnic. For a comforting refuel, drop into Mamma Lou’s - housed in the old train station, this a popular spot for a late breakfast and coffee or lunch options from schnitzel to classic burgers and pulled chicken tortillas. Also serving breakfast and lunch, Archer’s Table is another one of the popular places to eat in Port Augusta.
Where to stay
You’ll find plenty of comfortable Port Augusta accommodation. Enjoy the outdoor pool at Econo Lodge Port Augusta, or stay right next to things to do in Port Augusta at Comfort Inn and Suites Augusta Westside.
Whyalla
Port Augusta to Whyalla: 77 km / 50 minutes
Whyalla Jetty. Image: Isaac Forman
Welcome to Whyalla, a leisurely drive from Port Augusta and home to some awesome marine life experiences. Between May and August, Whyalla cuttlefish season put this town on the map. This unique attraction sees thousands of giant Australian cuttlefish gather in what is the largest aggregation of cuttlefish in the world. Join a guided snorkelling tour and snorkel alongside this wonderful display of marine life, where you’ll be rewarded with a memorable encounter and rare opportunity to witness the cuttlefish’s colour-changing abilities.
Another one of the essential things to do in Wyhalla is to step out onto the iconic Whyalla Jetty. Extending 315m into the gulf, this famous landmark is the perfect spot to view the region’s crystal clear waters, which teem with garfish and Australian herring. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset over the ocean as the afternoon sky changes colour. There are also good snorkelling opportunities at the nearby beach. In between all the action, or to cap the day off, grab a classic fish and chips dinner at George Avenue Fish and Chips.
Where to stay
Comfort Inn Whyalla offers great Whyalla accommodation, with plenty of nearby things to do in Whyalla as well as a pool, hotel restaurant and nearby beaches, Whyalla Foreshore and jetty and the Wetlands.