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South Australia

Planning a trip to explore the enchanting attractions of South Australia? This Aussie gem, tucked away on the southern coast of Australia, is famed for its scenic coastal landscapes, vibrant cities, and Outback beauty. Whether you’re looking to explore the art-laden streets of Adelaide, venture into the wild, untamed coasts of the Eyre Peninsula, sip wine in the lush vineyards of Barossa Valley, Claire Valley, and McLaren Vale or meet the diverse wildlife awaiting on Kangaroo Island, a campervan trip through SA makes these experiences seamlessly accessible. 

What’s more, with a camper, you have the freedom to easily navigate South Australia’s picturesque climate and seasons, as well as the freedom to chase the sun or find a cozy nook in the hills. In short, South Australia is a haven for adventurers, food and wine lovers, as well as cultural enthusiasts with its world-class wine, historic sites, and stunning landscapes. Whether you want to check out one of these or all of them, there is no shortage of things to do in South Australia. 

 

Why explore South Australia by campervan

Exploring South Australia by campervan is simply unmatched in the ability to tailor your journey to your travel taste and style. A campervan allows you to wake up to a new sunrise in different parts of this stunning region every day—from the serene beaches of the Fleurieu Peninsula to the secluded coves of Kangaroo Island. What’s more, a campervan offers all the conveniences of home, with the freedom to explore the world right outside your doorstep. 

So, whether it’s making a spontaneous stop to taste freshly shucked oysters in Smoky Bay or camping under the stars in the Flinders Ranges, you can fully immerse yourself in this state without sacrificing comfort. If that weren’t enough, South Australia is also peppered with campgrounds that are perfect for campervan stops, many of which offer facilities such as power hook-ups and water supply, so you are free to roam with peace of mind that a safe haven is always within easy reach.

 

Things to do in South Australia

South Australia is the perfect holiday destination for wine, beaches and culture. With more than 200 cellar doors across the state, wine aficionados can indulge in a glass of world-famous Shiraz in the Barossa or a delicate Riesling in the Clare Valley. For those who prefer the sand between their toes, South Australia’s beaches are unrivalled. From the family-friendly shores of Glenelg in Adelaide to the surf hotspots on the Fleurieu Peninsula, there’s a slice of paradise for everyone. Beyond the beach, the rugged wilderness of Kangaroo Island teeming with native wildlife, the Flinder’s Ranges with its spectacular Aboriginal culture, not to mention the numerous vibrant festivals and events like the Adelaide Fringe that are held here annually — you will never be left wondering what to do in South Australia.

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: AU Blog

The Best Things to See and Do on Bribie Island

Explore the beautiful and wild Bribie Island on your next Australian road trip. With fantastic camper, motorhome and camping facilities, plus amazing free (and paid) things to do on Bribie Island, discover why this Queensland island should be at the top of your next travel itinerary.

 

Where is Bribie Island, Queensland?

Located in south-east Queensland, Bribie Island is found less than a 2-hour drive from Brisbane. Although it sits off the Sunshine Coast, Bribie Island is one of three sand islands that make up Brisbane’s Moreton Bay Region. Due to its proximity to the mainland and the ease of getting there, Bribie Island is one of the easiest islands in Australia to visit. Interested in exploring more of Queensland? See our helpful Queensland guide.

 

Why Bribie Island should be on your bucket list when travelling Australia

While Queensland is famous for its popular tourist road trips like the Pacific Coast Way and Brisbane to Tropic of Capricorn, Bribie Island is more of a locals getaway and there’s a reason why Australians love it. It is worth going to Bribie Island because the 148 square kilometre island is jam-packed with pristine beaches, lush forests, and coastal headlands. Spend your mornings swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing and your afternoons spotting kangaroos, wallabies, dolphins, birds, and other native wildlife on Bribie Island’s scenic trails and reserves.

Road trip enthusiasts will be pleased to hear that Bribie Island is very campervan friendly with a number of fantastic camper facilities and dedicated Bribie Island camping sites. So, you can enjoy the freedom of coastal living while still enjoying easy access to essential services and facilities.

 

Best time to visit Bribie Island

Thanks to its southern Queensland location, the weather on Bribie Island is comfortably warm all year round. January and February are the hottest and wettest months, but June and July really put on some amazing weather. The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are also great times to visit Bribie Island.

 

Getting to Bribie Island

Given Bribie Island is both a popular road trip destination and, well, an island, it often begs the obvious question ‘How do you get over to Bribie Island?’ Thanks to its proximity to the Queensland coast, you can actually drive across to Bribie Island via the Bribie Bridge. Located just 65km north of the Brisbane Apollo Branch, and 70km south of Caloundra, you can reach the connecting Bribie Bridge via the Bruce Highway.

Wondering if you can drive a car (or camper) on Bribie Island? Yes, you can drive your Apollo camper here! Just be aware that some areas in the Bribie Island National Park and Recreation Area are 4WD only so be sure to always follow the rules and signposts, which you can find out about on the Queensland Government’s website. Although it may seem tempting, please also remember that Apollo campervans and motorhomes cannot be driven on the beach (this includes our 4WD campers).

 

Where to stay on Bribie Island

While the island isn’t big, there are a number of fantastic Bribie Island accommodation options including Bribie Island caravan parks and camping sites.

 

Bribie Island Caravan Park

A great Bribie accommodation option is the Bribie Island Caravan Park. Located just 200 metres from Woorim Beach, this family friendly park includes a camp kitchen, barbecues, laundromat, swimming pool, playground, and even mini golf.

 

Bongaree Caravan Park

The Bongaree Caravan Park hosts both camping, caravans and cabins with a spacious kitchen, barbecues, kiosk and laundry. Located on the western side of Bribie Island, you’ll also be treated to gorgeous views over the Sunshine Coast’s Glass House Mountains.  

 

BIG4 Sandstone Point Holiday Resort

While there are no BIG4 parks on Bribie Island, the BIG4 Sandstone Point is located only a three minute drive from the island, on the mainland side of the connecting Bribie Bridge. Situated against the famous Pumicestone Passage, this BIG4 park has incredible facilities including a waterpark, heated pool, kids’ room, tennis court and playground plus camp kitchens, gyms and outdoor meeting areas.

 

The best things to see and do on Bribie Island

 

1. Make a day of it at Bongaree Beach

Enjoy the simpler side of life with a day at Bongaree Beach. One of the best free things to do on Bribie Island, pack a picnic, don your swimmers, and enjoy a family fun day splashing around the shallow waters or jumping off the Bungaree jetty.

 

2. Book a 4WD Adventure Tour

Explore the wilder side of Bribie Island with a 4WD tour with G’day Adventure Tours. One of the best things to do on Bribie Island, on this 4WD tour you can visit Bribie Island beach, lagoons, WWII bunkers and more. Depending on your travel itinerary you can opt for shorter or longer durations and early to midday starts. This is a fantastic way to explore the 4WD-ing side of Bribie Island.

 

3. Take a tasty cruise around the islands with Ferryman Cruises

Add a cruise to your Bribie Island travel itinerary. Not just scenic, Ferryman Cruises host morning tea, captain’s lunch, and seafood sunset cruises. Here you can enjoy Devonshire tea, Moreton Bay seafood and light lunches as you explore the Bribie Island surroundings.

 

4. Explore Pumicestone Passage

Reaching from the tip of Bribie Island near Caloundra in the north to Deception Bay in the south, the Pumicestone Passage is a pristine stretch of ocean that separates Bribie Island from mainland Australia. However, it’s contribution to your Bribie Island experience is much more than that. As you explore Pumicestone Passage keep your eyes out for frolicking dolphins, dugongs, and turtles in the water, while counting how many of the 35 species of shorebirds you spot above.

 

5. Check out the Bribie Island Seaside Museum

Not too far from the Pumicestone Passage, the Bribie Island Seaside Museum recognises and showcases the fascinating history of Bribie Island. Featuring stories from Australia’s First Nation elders, films of the famous S. S. Koopa, an impressive collection of preserved fish and recollections from Bribie Island’s role in World War II, be sure to check out the latest exhibitions before visiting.

 

6. Encounter wildlife at Bribie Island National Park

One of the best things to do at Bribie Island and a key reason why hundreds visit each year is the Bribie Island National Park. Covering one third of Bribie Island and boasting beautiful coastal and forest scenery, Bribie Island National Park is home to a wide array of Australian wildlife. As you explore, keep your eyes out for goannas, kangaroos, emus, kookaburras, and birds migrating from as far as Kakadu in the Northern Territory!

 

7. Eat your fill of fresh seafood on Bribie Island

If you’re a fan of seafood, you’ve come to the right place. Bribie Island is overflowing with delicious fresh seafood. Enjoy quintessential fish and chips from Savige’s Seafood, the Oyster Shed Beach Club for something special and don’t leave Bribie Island without stopping at the classic Pig Face Seafood Takeaway (it’s highly rated for a reason!).

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

8. Stop at the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre

Get your art fix at the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre. This underrated Bribie attraction is one of the best things to do on Bribie Island where you can browse and shop contemporary artwork, enjoy a coffee, and even take an art workshop!

 

9. Visit the Bribie Island Butterfly House

If you’re visiting Bribie Island on a Wednesday or Sunday, you’ll want to put Bribie Island Butterfly House at the top of your travel itinerary. Spend an hour wandering through the aviary, home to hundreds of multicoloured butterflies. Due to its popularity, mornings can be quite busy, so early afternoon visits are recommended and if you want to increase your chance with a butterfly photo op, wear bright colours as butterflies are more likely to land on you if you do.

 

10. Explore The Bribie Island Bicentennial Trails

Get active on the 3.8km Bribie Island Bicentennial Trail. All classified as easy walks, enjoy a leisurely stroll through paperbark wetlands and eucalyptus forests. This free activity on Bribie Island is a great way to immerse yourself in nature with many colourful birds, including the Rainbow Bee-Eater and Eastern Yellow Robins, spotted along the walk.  

 

See the best of Bribie Island, Queensland with Apollo

If you’re ready for a family fun Bribie Island road trip adventure, we’re here to get you there. Choose your Apollo camper or motorhome, book your campervan hire online, pick up at our dedicated Brisbane branch and you’ll be on your way.  

Looking for more Queensland road trips after seeing Bribie Island? Check out our helpful Queensland tips and travel itineraries below:

Explore Queensland

The Pacific Coast Way – Brisbane to Cairns

Brisbane to the Tropic of Capricorn Road Trip

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Popular SA road trips & itineraries

South Australia is located on the southern coast of Australia, bordered by Western Australia to the west, Northern Territory to the north, Queensland to the northeast, and Victoria to the southeast. Internationally, South Australia can be accessed via Adelaide Airport, with direct flights from major cities worldwide. From neighbouring states like Victoria and New South Wales, driving to Adelaide takes approximately 8-10 hours, making it a feasible destination for most Australia campervan holidays. Some of the most popular road trip itineraries within South Australia include Adelaide to the Eyre Peninsula, Adelaide to Flinders Ranges, and the cross-state road trip from Adelaide to Perth — discovering the rugged landscapes of the Nullarbor Plain and the Great Australian Bight! 

Victoria | Melbourne to Alice Springs Road Trip Itinerary Victoria | Melbourne to Alice Springs Road Trip Itinerary

Victoria | Melbourne to Alice Springs Road Trip Itinerary

From the vibrant Melbourne city to the dramatic Great Ocean Road coastline, the rugged outback of South Australia and the spiritual heart of Australia - Uluru, you'll do it all on this 14 day Melbourne to Alice Springs road trip.

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Great savings on your SA road trip

Start planning your budget-friendly adventure through South Australia with Apollo Camper's great savings and special offers. Hire a fully self-contained motorhome from our Apollo branch in Adelaide, equipped with everything you need for an unscripted holiday experience. Explore South Australia's scenic wonders and cultural delights while enjoying significant savings on your Australia campervan holiday. Discover epic deals and see how much you can save on your next journey across this jam-packed state! 

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Earn Qantas Points

Book an Apollo road trip and earn Qantas Points on eligible rentals.*

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Apollo SA campervan branch

Adelaide is the perfect starting point for hiring a campervan for your Australia campervan holiday across SA, WA, and even the NT. Our Apollo Adelaide branch is conveniently located less than 10 kilometres from Adelaide Airport and just over 8 kilometres from the city centre. Whether you’re heading to the vineyards of Barossa Valley to the rugged coastline of Kangaroo Island or have a grand Aussie road trip planned, Apollo’s central location and great deals on motorhome and campervan rentals, ensure you will have an easy start to your Australia campervan holiday.

 

 

 

 

Helpful Tips for Visiting SA

Helpful Tips for Visiting South Australia

Do so with confidence using these essential tips. From understanding the climate to packing smartly and discovering nearby attractions and things to do in South Australia, this section equips you with all the basics you need for an unforgettable adventure through South Australia.

South Australia enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterised by hot summers and mild winters. As such, the best time to visit is during spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May), when temperatures are pleasant for beachgoing, outdoor activities, and sightseeing. Travelling in these off-peak times offers quieter experiences compared to the peak season, when you can expect bustling tourist spots and long queues for attractions. What’s more, travelling in off-peak times could mean potential savings without the higher ticket accommodation and sightseeing costs. If you find yourself travelling at peak times, be sure to book early to ensure you get the biggest savings and guaranteed accommodation!

Packing for your South Australia adventure is easy with a little planning. Be sure to pack essentials like outdoor gear, sun protection, and any additional camping supplies that you won't have in your camper, such as a flashlight. It is also worthwhile considering the kinds of activities you have planned during your Australia campervan holiday across SA. For example, if you are planning to visit the local wineries, you may want a few smart casual outfits. Alternatively, if you have hiking on the itinerary, you should pack a pair of good hiking shoes. For more tips on what to pack, check out our guide on summer campervan road trip essentials.

Still looking for ideas of what to do in South Australia? Here’s a closer look at some of the must-visit destinations and things to do in South Australia:

Barossa Valley

Renowned globally for its world-class wines, Barossa Valley invites visitors to savour exquisite Shiraz and Riesling varieties amidst picturesque vineyards. Beyond wine tasting, this region is a perfect setting to indulge in gourmet food, explore charming historic towns like Tanunda and Angaston, or set out on scenic drives through rolling hills dotted with cellar doors.

Kangaroo Island

A wildlife haven just off Adelaide’s coast, Kangaroo Island boasts pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and diverse wildlife. On a typical day on the Island, you may very well encounter sea lions at Seal Bay, spot koalas in Flinders Chase National Park, and marvel at the natural formations of Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike trails through untouched wilderness or relax on secluded sandy shores.

Murray River

Stretching across South Australia, the mighty Murray River offers leisurely cruises, watersports, and riverside picnics, perfect for the water lovers in the family. Here, you can explore historic paddle steamers at Mannum, visit charming river towns like Renmark and Loxton, or unwind with fishing and birdwatching along its tranquil banks.

Adelaide Hills

Escape to the lush Adelaide Hills for a scenic retreat filled with quaint villages, artisanal produce, and panoramic views. Here, you will also find Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest German settlement, where you can sample local cheeses and chocolates or wander through leafy national parks like Mount Lofty Botanic Garden.

Fleurieu Peninsula

South of Adelaide, the Fleurieu Peninsula beckons with its stunning coastline and relaxed beachside towns. Surf the waves at Middleton, spot migrating whales at Victor Harbor, or explore the protected waters of Encounter Marine Park. Foodies can indulge in fresh seafood and regional wines at local eateries overlooking azure waters.

McLaren Vale

Famed for its Mediterranean climate and premium wines, McLaren Vale is a paradise for wine enthusiasts. Spend a day here touring boutique wineries, sampling bold Shiraz and Grenache blends, or cycling through vine-covered landscapes.

Clare Valley

Nestled in the heart of South Australia, Clare Valley charms with its scenic beauty and boutique wineries. Taste award-winning Rieslings, explore historic cellar doors, or wander along the eucalypt-lined Riesling Trail on foot or bicycle.

Whether you prefer free camping spots in Australia amidst stunning natural landscapes, the convenience of Aspen Holiday Parks along Highway 1, the picturesque Murray River views at Berri Riverside Holiday Park, the historic charm of Karoonda Tourist Park, or the tranquil setting of Riverton Caravan Park near Clare Valley's wineries, there are plenty of campervan friendly camping options with easy access to South Australia's major attractions.

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