Top 11 Adelaide Water Activities to Dive for in Summer [2024]

When the Adelaide heat turns from warm to scorching, sticking to dry land might be the wrong move. After all, the city overflows with water activities that truly make a splash.

We’re talking about aquatic adventures like discovering a kaleidoscopic world beneath waves or taking a dip alongside cheeky dolphins.

You’ll discover more by diving into our guide below. We even sprinkled some tips to ensure you’ll keep your cool no matter what watery odyssey you pick!

Fishing

Anglers going home with an empty bucket is a rare occurrence in Adelaide (it might even be rarer than pouched lampreys). The waters teem with possible summer hauls, from mulloway and black bream to snapper and King George whiting.

To reel it all, you must hit up fishing hotspots like the beach jetties in Semaphore, Glenelg, and Henley Beach. Even the rivers are stocked with big ones, especially River Torrens and Port River, both known for massive mulloway hard to catch elsewhere.

Tip: Each Adelaide jetty, river, or beach offers prime fishing, but if you’re after larger catches, boarding a boat to deeper waters will reely up your odds.

Cruises

Port River Cruises: 1 McLaren Wharf, Port Adelaide
River Torrens Popeye Cruises: Elder Park, King William Rd
Temptation Sailing: 10 Holdfast Promenade

Braving the rising mercury is a breeze if you hop aboard an Adelaide cruise.

The local favorites are river tours, usually offered by Port River Cruises and River Torrens Popeye Cruises. These will take you to the city’s local attractions, historic locations, and wildlife hubs, all while serving booze or bites (or both, depending on your package).

If you’re in Glenelg, where it’s seemingly summer 24/7, paying top dollar for a Temptation Sailing seat is the move to make. Their Twilight Tour is the crowd-pleaser, but alternatives like Tunes on Temptation and Afternoon Tea Cruise are also worth each cent.

Tip: Cruises come with a cost. Ensure you get your money’s worth by picking a date with the perfect weather.

Kayaking and Canoeing

Kayaking or canoeing through Adelaide’s waterways is a nature therapy session that won’t dent your wallet. The question is: which spots deserve your oar and sweat?

If you ask us, the Onkaparinga River is a candidate for the best paddling spot in town. Chaos-free, jaw-dropping, and noob-friendly, this one is a safe but slightly cliche pick.

For a splash with the local flippers, head to the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary. Migratory birds add to this place’s charm. Just watch out for cranky pelicans!

The city’s other national parks are primo paddling spots, too. Majestic and serene stops like the Coffin Bay National Park, Murray River National Park, and Coorong National Park will ensure your strokes won’t be for naught.

Tip: Timing is everything. Plan your kayaking/canoeing adventure around the tides for smoother, less shipwreck-y rides.

Scuba Diving or Snorkeling

The world beneath Adelaide’s waves proves that Mother Nature can sometimes outdo herself.

Just this past month, we learned this in the most jaw-dropping way by snorkeling in the Fleurieu Peninsula’s Second Valley. There, we witnessed fish, squid, and even leafy sea dragons pop color into the underwater world.

For first-time scuba divers or snorkelers, though, the Port Noarlunga Jetty is where it’s at. This area has a sea of shallows where numerous crabs and stars chill out.

Lastly, we’ll recommend the Gawler River, particularly the area with mangroves. As a marine nursery, this spot guarantees trippy sea squirts, pint-sized fish, and scuttling crabs as soon as you peer into the waters.

Tip: Despite being underwater activities, scuba diving and snorkeling still require sunscreen. Without one, prepare to don a lobster-chic look courtesy of the Adelaide sun.

Stand-Up Paddle Boarding

Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is now a staple of Adelaide summers, and there are a few spots that stand out.

First up, we’ll go with Onkaparinga River National Park, where calm waters wind through floodplains and wetlands. Beginners will feel right at home here.

It’s followed by Seacliff, offering beach shallows perfect for practicing your paddle strokes in a laid-back atmosphere.

Last but certainly not least, there’s Glenelg. Paddleboarding here promises flat waters, unobstructed sunsets, and perhaps even a bit of jetty fishing on the side.

Tip: Don’t be a daredevil if you’re new to SUP. Choose a stable, 76 to 86-centimeter board (around 30 to 34 inches wide) for better balance.

Swimming

Don’t call it an Adelaide summer if you haven’t dipped into one of our city’s beaches.

In terms of options, Glenelg Beach and Henley Beach are top picks, drawing tourists with their gentle waters and bustling cafes perfect for post-swim sips and bites.

However, consider Sellicks Beach, Maslin Beach, and Moana Beach for quieter laps. Hallet Cove Beach is also noteworthy, enhanced by its impressive geological formations that set its scenery apart.

Tip: Summer is a buzzing time for most of the beaches above. For a slice of serenity, opt for swimming sessions during early mornings.

Surfing

Newbie or not, Adelaide has surfing spots for days. For instance, those starting can pop by Christies Beach, probably the most famous learner spot in the city.

Massive swells are rarely experienced here, especially during the sunny seasons. In addition, the shoreline is within reach of surf schools, so rookies can learn a thing or two before riding this location’s gentle waves.

On the other hand, veteran surfers have Waitpinga Beach or Parsons Beach for their thrill-seeking needs. The southern ocean swells here are larger and more exciting, but you must watch out for rips.

Tip: To spot rip currents, be on the lookout for calm patches, darker waters, and uneven wave breaks.

Dolphin Watching

In Adelaide, there’s no need to sail the seven seas just to watch or bond with dolphins. As we said earlier, the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary has several of them—and the wildlife haven is just 21 minutes from the city center.

These marine marvels also love frolicking in the Port River. You can see some just by standing on the banks, but paddling a kayak through the Port River Dolphin Trail can provide closer encounters.

Traveling to Pondalowie Bay or Coffin Bay is also a no-brainer move if you’re looking for viewing spots far from the urban bustle. Dolphin pods frequent these waters throughout the year, ensuring your trip won’t end in wasted gas and effort.

Tip: Plan your trip around the dolphins’ favorite hours, which are around early mornings or late afternoons.

Playing in Water Parks

The Beachhouse: 4 Colley Terrace, Glenelg
The Big Wedgie: West Beach Parks Military Rd, West Beach
Tusmore Park: Stirling St, Tusmore
Glenelg Foreshore Playspace: Moseley St
Splash Town Moonta: 167 Bay Rd, Moonta Bay

Just like dolphins, Adelaide has a trove of water parks that know how to beat the heat and boredom.

Glenelg’s The Beachhouse is our team’s all-time favorite, so including it here didn’t meet objections. It has everything a kid and kid at heart needs, from speedy bumper boats to heart-racing waterslides.

Speaking of waterslides, The Big Wedgie’s inflatable slides are longer, bigger, and more adrenaline-pumping. Groups can even enjoy summer packages with perks like unlimited slide access, customizable food options, and extended sliding hours.

Tip: The water parks above aren’t free. If you’re looking for a spot that won’t cost a penny, head to Tusmore Park, Glenelg Foreshore Playspace, or Splash Town Moonta.

Kitesurfing

Kitesurfing in Adelaide is the perfect way to combine wind and water for a ride that isn’t for the faint of heart. Just remember to snag those KSA permits first for a less “wavy” time.

Now, for the designated areas, North Haven Beach might be your best bet. It’s better during winter, but the summer southerlies don’t disappoint.

On the flip side, newcomers to the sport should polish their know-how at Largs Bay, as its minimal chops and shallow waters won’t result in complete wipeouts. The cherry on top is the beach’s less-packed shoreline.

Tip: Wind conditions can change fast. Always stay informed and prepare for sudden shifts by reviewing the wind forecast.

Houseboat Renting

Wow Houseboat: Riverglen Dr, White Sands
Moon Dance Houseboats: Kia Marina (Upstream from Mannum), East Front Rd, Mannum

Unwinding in a houseboat can be bank-breaking, but it definitely is a summer escape worth splurging for.

If you aren’t buying it, try signing up for a Wow Houseboats cruise along the Murray River. The retreat takes place in a 2-berth luxury houseboat flaunting two levels of pure indulgence, with glamorous lighting, an 8-person heated spa, and an upscale lounge.

For those looking for something with hotel vibes, Moon Dance Houseboats is the one to book. This 10 to 12-berth houseboat also explores the Murray River but with conveniences like queen-sized rooms and luxurious bedding to go along with the panoramas.

Tip: Stretch your dollar by checking Wow Houseboats’ and Moon Dance Houseboats’ Instagram pages. They announce promotions and special deals there!