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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.

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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! 

Queensland | Brisbane to Cairns Road Trip Itinerary
Sarah Latham
/ Categories: AU Itineraries, All Locations, Queensland, All Duration, 8-10 Days, All Categories, Iconic Road Trips, Outdoor Activities, Family Friendly, Natural Wonders, Beaches & Surf

Queensland | Brisbane to Cairns Road Trip Itinerary

Cruise along the Queensland coast between Brisbane and Cairns, taking in the best that the Sunshine State has to offer.

Day 1: Brisbane Apollo Branch to Caloundra

Distance: 90kms

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Pick up your Apollo vehicle in Brisbane and hit the road. Day one's destination is Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast. This sleepy coastal town is known for its relaxed atmosphere and epic surfing conditions. We recommend picking up some fish and chips and spending the afternoon at the nearby Moffat Beach.

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 2: Caloundra to Hervey Bay

Distance: 210kms

Travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Leave Caloundra behind and continue north in the direction of Hervey Bay. On the way drop in at Rainbow Beach and take the short walk to Carlo Sand Blow. This sand blow is an accumulation of sand covering 15 or so hectares and is often marveled at for its out of worldly view. 

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 3: Hervey Bay

Ready to have a whale-y good time? (Sorry, couldn't help ourselves!). The calm, protected waters surrounding Hervey Bay are one of the best places in Australia to spot whales. From July to October each year this region becomes a whale's hangout of choice as they drift on through on their annual migration between Australia and Antartica. 

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 4: Hervey Bay to Yeppoon

Distance: 425kms

Travel time: 5 hours

A longer day on the road today but one that is well worth the destination. Situated just 30 minutes outside of Rockhampton, the coastal Yeppoon is a must do for those exploring the Queensland coast. From Yeppoon you can visit Byfield National Park, Pumpkin Island and Great Keppel Island so we wouldn't blame you if you felt the need to extend your Queensland road trip just to see more of this region. 

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 5: Yeppoon to Mackay

Distance: 355kms

Travel time: 3 hours 50 minutes

Stock up on your road trip snacks, you just might need them today! Leave Yeppoon behind, hit up your road trip playlist and enjoy a four hour drive to Mackay. 

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 6: Mackay to Airlie Beach

Distance: 150kms

Travel time: 2 hours

Just north of Mackay you'll find Cape Hillsborough National Park. Famous for its furry locals, each morning Cape Hillsborough beach is dotted with a number of friendly kangaroos and wallabies. You have to be here at sunrise to catch them though so we recommend booking in the night before at Cape Hillsborough Tourist Nature Park, where you can practically roll out of your Apollo Camper and onto the beach.  

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 7: Airlie Beach 

The day is yours to enjoy at Airlie Beach,  the gateway to the Whitsundays. Spend your day island hopping, snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, relaxing on Whitehaven Beach and taking in the spectacular view that is Hill Inlet. 

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 8: Airlie Beach to Mission Beach

Distance: 507kms

Travel time: 5 hours 45 minutes

Say goodbye to Airlie Beach and continue north. Mission Beach is a nature lover's paradise. Palm fringed beaches, tropical rainforest and golden sand is waiting to greet you at the end of today's journey. On the way to Mission Beach, take a detour to Wallaman Falls (Australia's tallest single drop permanent waterfall) and the Instagram famous and vibrant blue Cardwell Spa Pools. 

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Day 9: Mission Beach to Cairns Apollo Branch

Distance: 140kms

Travel time: 2 hours

You may have arrived at Cairns but that doesn't mean your Queensland road trip adventure needs to end. Cairns is famous for its wealth of natural wonders including the world's oldest tropical rainforest and the world heritage listed Great Barrier Reef. 

 

Highlights

Sea Turtles

November to January: Mother turtles come ashore to nest at Mon Repos, Bundaberg.
January to late March: Tiny hatchlings take their first flips towards the shore at Mon Repos, Bundaberg.
All year round: Swim with the sea turtles across the Great Barrier Reef - our top spots are Lady Elliot Island, Lady Musgrave Island and Green Island!

Whale Watching

The calm, protected waters of Hervey Bay provide the perfect conditions for mother humpbacks to teach their newborn calves survival skills before continuing their migration along the Queensland coastline from June to October every year. 

Great Barrier Reef

Stretching over 2,300kms along the Queensland coastline, the Great Barrier Reef is a world heritage playground, just waiting to be explored. With five distinctive precincts, each offering a unique set of experiences, there is breathtaking adventure here waiting for you to discover.

Indigenous Culture

Immerse yourself in Queensland's Indigenous culture. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people proudly practice and share their culture. Discover stories shared over thousands of years and connect with the world's oldest continuously surviving culture. 

 

Where to stay

Ingenia Holiday Park Noosa

Fisherman's Beach Holiday Park

Seabreeze Tourist Park

NRMA Cairns Holiday Park

 

 

 

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Tags: Apollo Camper Outdoor Activities Family Friendly Queensland Natural Wonders Iconic Road Trips 8-10 Days Beaches & Surf
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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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