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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! 

Western Australia | Perth to Exmouth Road Trip Itinerary
Sarah Latham
/ Categories: AU Itineraries, All Locations, Western Australia, All Duration, 14+ Days, All Categories, Iconic Road Trips, Outdoor Activities, Family Friendly, Natural Wonders, Beaches & Surf, Outdoor Activities

Western Australia | Perth to Exmouth Road Trip Itinerary

Red dust, white sands and cerulean-blue waters Every kilometre you cover is a new adventure on your trip from Perth to Ningaloo Reef in Exmouth and back again.

Let your curiosity take the lead and come face-to-face with Western Australia’s breathtakingly diverse landscape. This is a trip with special experiences for everyone. In just 14 days, you’ll see it all—from the rugged, red outback to the wonders of Kalbarri National Park and seaside escapes like Coral Bay.

Begin your journey on the Indian Ocean Drive. Follow the road north for whale watching on the cliffs of Kalbarri, and onwards to the crystalline waters of Ningaloo Reef where you can swim with the gentle whale sharks. And when you need to refuel between stops, you’ll find all of the fresh seafood, produce and delicious baked goods your heart could desire along the way.

Explore Western Australia’s greatest natural treasures and authentic communities. No two days are the same as you travel up the Coral Coast. Follow your nose from town to town, sampling culture, cuisine and natural wonders everywhere you go.

 

Day 1: Perth to Cervantes

Distance: 213km

Travel time: 2 hours 40 minutes

Pick up your Apollo vehicle and hit the road. The first stop on your great Coral Coast road trip is the Pinnacles, found just south of Cervantes. Formed from a deposit of sea shells, some 30,000 years ago, the Pinnacles are a natural limestone structure and a must do on any Coral Coast road trip. 

Image: Mark Stevens and Jess Kearney

 

Day 2: Cervantes to Kalbarri

Distance: 377km

Travel time: 4 hours 10 minutes

Continue north today in the direction of Kalbarri. This town of less than 2000 people is the gateway to the incredible Kalbarri National Park and its natural formations and outdoor activities attract tourists from across the world. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 3: Kalbarri National Park

Today is yours to explore at Kalbarri National Park! Reaching over 186,000 hectares spend your day exploring one of the most spectacular national parks in Australia. From the Nature's Window, to the Loop Walk and the Kalbarri Skywalk, prepared to be awe-struck as you wander through this national park, 400 million years in the making. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 4: Kalbarri to Coral Bay

Distance: 673km

Travel time: 6 hours 45 minutes

Say goodbye to the vibrant red dirt and hello to the squeaky white sand of Coral Bay. After almost 7 hours driving today, take in one of Western Australia's amazing sunsets from the beach.

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 5: Coral Bay

If you can draw yourself away from the pristine sand of Coral Bay, spend today exploring the turquoise waters of Ningaloo Reef. This particular area of Western Australia is famous for mantra ray sightings all year round and many tour operators enable you to snorkel alongside them. 

Image: Flynn Graham

 

Day 6: Coral Bay to Exmouth

Distance: 152km

Travel time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Exmouth and Turquoise Bay await you today. With pristine white sand and pinch-me-is-this-real blue water, you'll truly believe you've found paradise as you explore the Western Australian coast. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 7: Exmouth

Every year between March and July, whale sharks visit the beautiful waters surrounding Exmouth. Swimming with the world's largest fish is a must do activity in the region and there are many tour operators offering this experience. Only 1 in every 3 million people will ever swim with a whale shark - will you be one of the few?

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 8: Exmouth to Carnarvon

Distance: 364km

Travel time: 3 hours 50 minutes

Today we turn our Apollo vehicle around and begin to head south again. After 4 hours on the road you'll arrive at Carnarvon, a great place to relax and recharge. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 9: Carnarvon

Spend your day exploring Carnarvon. 80% of the state's fruit and vegetable crops are produced here so it's no surprise that you can drive 'The Fruit Loop' trail around some of the region's plantations and roadside market stalls. Finish your day by driving the 75km out of town to witness the spectacular Quobba Blowholes, it truly is a sight to be behold. 

 

Day 10: Carnarvon to Monkey Mia

Distance: 352km

Travel time: 3 hours 30 minutes

After relaxing in Carnarvon head south to Monkey Mia. This area is world famous thanks to a few friendly local dolphins. Sleep tight, tomorrow you'll get to experience this all for yourself. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 11: Monkey Mia

Monkey Mia has been the wild dolphin hangout by choice for well over 40 years. Each morning at 745am you can meet the ranger in front of the visitor centre and follow them down to the beach to experience yourself. The dolphins will hang out in the shallow water to approximately midday. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 12: Monkey Mia to Geraldton

Distance: 433 km

Travel time: 4 hours 30 minutes

After you've 'aww-ed' to your hearts content over the Monkey Mia dolphins, continue on your journey to Geraldton, 4.5 hours south. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 13: Geraldton

Spend the day exploring Geraldton. We recommend a trip to the red and white Point Moore Lighthouse or get your art fix at the Geraldton Regional Art Gallery, found in the centre of Geraldton. 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

Day 14: Geraldton­ to Perth

Distance: 416km

Travel time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Say goodbye to Geraldton as you head back towards Perth. If you have longer to spend in the city, we recommend visiting Kings Park and Botanic Garden, the Instagram famous Blue Boathouse or make the quick trip across to the beautiful Rottnest Island. 

 

Image: Tourism Western Australia

 

 

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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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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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