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The Best Things to Do in Semaphore Adelaide for an Outing That Makes Waves

If you ever thought Semaphore was just another sleepy, cookie-cutter suburb, think again. There are no dull corners here, whether you’re into wolfing down bites by the sea or war reenactments that don’t lack firepower.

We won’t blame you if this secret gem slipped under your radar, though. It isn’t as flashy as other Adelaide hotspots, but that doesn’t mean we won’t spice things up and show you what you’ve been missing.

Listed below are the hottest things you can do in Semaphore. We even drop some tips to make every dollar and second count!

Soak the sun and good vibes at Semaphore Beach

From darlenejob

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/V1v33gJLetNhNFZP9
Tide Times

Simply imagine Semaphore Beach’s powdery sand and warm shallows, and you’ll quickly understand why this one made our list.

On our visit, we were spoiled with options, from taking a dip to cruising through the shoreline via bikes. Speaking of the shoreline, it’s also a prime picnic and sunbathing spot, with its open grassy sections and dunes that stretch for over a kilometer.

For a touch of nostalgia and childlike delight, visitors can hop aboard a mini train chugging by the beach. Just don’t forget your fur baby; Semaphore Beach is paw-sitively dog-friendly.

Tip: Want to catch the Adelaide International Kite Festival at Semaphore? Plan your visit to coincide with this annual May 1 to April 30 sky-high bonanza!

Indulge in a food fest at Semaphore Road

From skaragreekstreetfood

  • SKARA Greek Street Food: Shop 2/14 Semaphore Rd
  • Sarah’s Sister’s Sustainable Cafe: 117 Semaphore Rd
  • Sotos Fish Shop: 23 Semaphore Rd

We’re always down for a Semaphore Road food fest. You can consider us patrons of the main street’s dining scene, and some of our favorites are SKARA Greek Street Food, Sarah’s Sister’s Sustainable Cafe, and Sotos Fish Shop.

SKARA whips out Greek diet-busters, including pork yiros with tzatziki and chips that taste more heavenly if punctuated with a good slice of baklava.

Then there’s Sarah’s Sister’s Sustainable Cafe, where even our meat maniacs can’t resist the vegan toasties. These health-conscious but flavor-packed sourdough delights boast sliced beetroot, pickled red onion, and almond feta.

And of course, we have to mention Sotos Fish Shop, a Semaphore staple since forever (1949, to be exact). From butterfish to calamari and all the trimmings, they dish out the ocean’s bounty that never goes out of style.

Tip: Eating out can be bank-breaking. Try to stretch your dollar (and not just your rolls) by checking promotions announced on the restaurants’ websites!

Shop your heart out at the finest stores

From lemonbayau

  • La La Vintage: 67 Semaphore Rd
  • Xanadu Semaphore: 71 Semaphore Rd
  • Lemon Bay Boutique: 90 Semaphore Rd

Semaphore is where “shop ’til you drop” isn’t just a saying; it’s a lifestyle. There are several to choose from, though, so to make retail therapy a breeze, we prioritized the places our shopaholics fancy.

To start, there’s La La Vintage, perfect if you’re into, well, vintage treasures that turn heads and spark envy. Their collection is diverse: Mid-century furniture, art pieces, antique toys—you name it, they have it.

For those looking for a magical mix of mystique and a wardrobe upgrade, Xanadu Semaphore is where it’s at. The general vibe this shop gives is “crystals and tarot cards meet chic clothing.”

And if you’re all about bringing home the perfect Semaphore memento, Lemon Bay Boutique has you covered with classic souvenirs like summer-ready handbags, hats, and beachwear.

Tip: Don’t settle for the first price you see. Take time to compare prices from different stores.

Have a blast at the Semaphore Music Festival

Website

At the Semaphore Music Festival, you’ll get your groove on for 3 days and 4 nights. This beats-by-the-beach type of bash will light up the shoreline with live performances spanning all the genres that will put your Spotify playlist to shame.

Some illustrious talents who have electrified the stage include the Australian legend Frank Yamma, the dynamic duo Mick Kidd and David Blight, and the spell-binding blues singer Ollie English.

Tip: The program hasn’t yet been announced as of June 2024, so keep an eye on the website as the event approaches to stay updated on all the festival nitty-gritty.

Catch blockbusters at the Odeon Star Cinema

Address: 65 Semaphore Rd
Contact Details: (08) 8341 5988
Website

If contemporary movie theaters no longer feel “homely,” then, Adelaide’s oldest movie house, the Odeon Star Cinema might be the alternative you need and deserve. They’ve been around since 1920—back when “swiping right” meant turning a book’s page.

For just ten bucks a ticket, you can catch the latest blockbusters, perfect if you want to avoid the worst thing a movie buff can experience—getting spoiled.

Cinephiles into classics don’t have to pout, though. From Terminator 2 to Forrest Gump, Odeon also delivers on the iconic picture department.

Tip: The cinema’s showtimes vary from movie to movie. Ensure a hassle-free movie-watching experience by checking their schedule beforehand.

Experience the thunder of cannon fire at Fort Glanville Conservation Park

From mandiwhitten

Address: 359 Military Rd, Semaphore Park
Contact Details: 0413 469 344
Operating Hours: Tue only – 10 am to 1 pm
Website

Fort Glanville Conservation Park is a piece of history with a dash of firepower. Here, visitors of all ages can watch a reenactment of carbine and cannon firing drills, a power-packed way to relive South Australia’s European colonial history.

On top of that, the fort has drill sergeants who lead mock, traditional military parades, an activity popular among kids (and parents). It’s the perfect way to tire the little ones while sneaking in a bit of education.

A one-and-a-half-hour tour is also available. Joining will cost a mere $7 for under-14s and 15 bucks for adults.

Tip: Walk-ins are cool, but if you’re rolling in with a squad of 10 or more, you better book ahead or you’ll be sitting on the sidewalk. Learn the process here.

Sail with Port River Cruises to see dolphins

Address: 1 McLaren Wharf
Contact Details: (08) 7082 9608
Operating Hours: Daily – 8 am to 6 pm
Website

Semaphore’s waters splash with life, and what better way to see it than by joining a Port River Cruise?

They have all sorts of tours, with the Dolphin & Ships Graveyard Cruise as the top earner. It explores watery graves, as well as nearby wildlife-filled attractions like the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary and the International Bird Sanctuary.

Another fan-favorite is the 90-minute Twilight Ships Graveyard Cruise, which runs from October to March. It will take you to the shipwrecks during the golden hours, with the bonus of sipping on a glass of vino.

Tip: Dress for the weather, not the runway. Check Semaphore’s forecast before the tour to know what fabrics to flaunt.

And hey, don’t stress about getting soaked; it’s a leisure tour.

Travel to bygone days at the Time Ball Tower

From visitportadelaideandcoast

Address: 6 Semaphore Rd
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours

Popularly known as “The Sentinel of Semaphore,” the Time Ball Tower is a piece of the area’s maritime history.

Built in 1875, this stone giant drops its black ball at 1 pm daily, a nostalgic nod to an era of rating chronometers, back when wireless telegraphy was a pipe dream. Tourists and locals alike flock here to see this spectacle.

The area around the tower isn’t just about the drop, too; it unfolds with unobstructed views of lush greenery and the expansive ocean.

Tip: If you’re fine with not seeing the tower’s balls dropping at 1 pm, grab a seat here at around 5 pm for a sunset vista that might mellow out even the most stressed-out soul.

Watch your kid’s face light up at the Semaphore Beach Playground

From a.p.r.s.g

Address: 66-67 Esplanade
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours

Shaded, fully fenced, and has play equipment for days, the Semaphore Beach Playground is a hotspot for little adventurers.

It shouldn’t be a surprise, as the play space has climbing obstacles, swings, and slides. Tiny thrill-seekers can even pass through tunnels or zoom on the flying fox (a zip line for pint-sized daredevils).

For the adults, there are BBQs nearby, so you can whip up a storm while the kiddos run loose. Biking by the beach is also popular, but if you don’t own a bike, you can always go for a stress-relieving stroll (try not to step on tiny crabs).

Tip: With its idyllic views and top-notch playground, it’s no surprise this spot is a hit. For a less crowded experience, swing by (no pun intended) during off-peak hours, like weekdays, early mornings, or late afternoons.

Kick back or sweat it out at Point Malcolm Reserve

From charlessturtsa

Address: 343 Military Rd
Contact Details: (08) 8408 1111
Operating Hours: Daily -24 hours
Website

Whether we’re in the mood for lounging or working up a sweat, Point Malcolm Reserve has us covered like sunscreen on a summer noon. It’s our team’s one-stop shop for all our outdoor cravings.

Whenever we’re here, we often start the outing by pumping irons in the fitness area that flexes gym equipment. Once we’re done with the muscle-building sesh, we’ll typically hit up the reserve’s courts or its cycling paths.

The cherry on top is the newly improved BBQs and shaded picnic zones—must-try amenities after a day of sweating buckets.

Tip: Looking to unwind or play sports without dealing with unwanted company? You can book the reserve!

Reel in free dinner at the Semaphore Jetty

From kelly_lee_photos

Address: Semaphore Jetty
Contact Details: Daily – 24 hours

Beyond being a heavenly sightseeing vantage point, the Semaphore Jetty is a dream for anglers. It has all the scaly goods: King George whiting, herring, garfish, snapper, ruff, and mullet—all catchable without getting soaked.

But if you’re up for a challenge, head here between October and March, when whaler sharks patrol the area. You can reel in crabs and squid, too, but you must fish from spring through February to not come home empty-handed.

Tip: If you’re a newbie, don’t just throw your line in and expect to reel in whatever you fancy. Read up on and follow local fishing regulations to avoid getting into trouble and looking like a fish out of water.

Drink your heart out at the Palais Hotel

Address: 86 Esplanade
Contact Details: (08) 8341 6333
Operating Hours: Daily – 11 am to 12 pm
Website

Not catching sunshine and getting buzzed up at the Palais Hotel are rookie mistakes. With its soft white colors and a front-row seat to the expansive beach, this spot embodies everything summer and a Semaphore escapade should be about.

Their bar rocks with a strong wine list overflowing with reds, roses, whites, and sparklings. As for cocktails, they’re pouring out classic gems like the espresso martini, pina colada, and margarita.

Pair the bevvies with their pizza and seafood, and you’ll know why this pub attracts throngs of people.

Tip: A Palais Hotel visit is better with an event going on. Check the schedule to crank up your experience.

From seabreezeatsemaphore

Address: Semaphore Esplanade
Contact Details: 0407 235 284
Operating Hours: Sat and Sun only – 12 pm to 4 pm

The Semaphore Carousel, spinning since 1928, offers every rider a nostalgic taste of yesteryear’s charm.

It’s one of the earliest machinery powered by a gearbox and electric lift motor, making it a game-changing treasure of the past.

Presently, it charges 6 to 15 bucks for a 3-to-5-minute ride that kids and kids at heart will love.

Tip: Donating for the Semaphore Carousel’s upgrades can grant you perks, such as 3 free rides for every $25 donated, a chance to win a 2-hour party with unlimited rides, and a free second hour when you donate $50 or more.

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