Splash Zones: Top Rock Pools in and near Adelaide
Nestled along the sun-soaked shores of Adelaide and South Australia, you’ll discover a treasure trove of nature’s own jacuzzis—rock pools that redefine coastal relaxation.
Spots like Oliver’s Reef and Lady Bay are like VIP lounges for those seeking a splashy, scenic, and soothing outing.
If you want to know more, this article has insider tips on making the most of your rock pool expedition!
Annie’s Nursery
– From saltyandlost
Distance from the Adelaide CBD: 281.9 kilometers
Travel Time from the Adelaide CBD: 3 hours and 19 minutes
Annie’s Nursery is a rock pool for the fam—big enough to dip your toes or do a little lazy float while soaking in its crystal-clear waters.
You can find this spot on the down-low of Hillocks Drive Station, near Marion Bay. From Marion Bay, it’s a 15-minute drive along dirt tracks with a 2WD vehicle.
If you want to rent one, you have to pay around $25 to $30 at the Hillocks front office.
You can camp out in their wicked campsites or chill in their self-contained ocean pods.
Lady Bay
– From adelaidesocialnetwork
Distance from the Adelaide CBD: 81.2 kilometers
Travel Time from the Adelaide CBD: 1 hour and 26 minutes
You’ll reach Lady Bay by following Lady Bay Road, which passes through Carrickalinga and Second Valley, ensuring a drive as scenic as the rock pools with pristine white sand.
Don’t forget your aquashoes because these rock pools are decked out with shells, corals, sea urchins, and other marine life that can do a number on your bare soles. The path to the pools is also rocky and slippery, so tread carefully.
And don’t even think about snatching any of the bottom-dwelling creatures—you could be slapped with a hefty fine of up to 20 grand. Lastly, If you’re eyeing a place to crash, the Links Lady Bay Resort is your best bet.
Oliver’s Reef
Distance from the Adelaide CBD: 86.4 kilometers
Travel Time from the Adelaide CBD: 1 hour and 23 minutes
Beyond the clear waters of Oliver’s Reef’s rock pools, there are agate, shells, and sea glass beachcombers would love. In addition, Oliver’s Reef is in Encounter Marine Park, giving you a chance to see whales between June and September.
In terms of rock pools, you’ll find small and shallow ones here, best for kids who want to practice swimming. They’re also perfect for anyone with a penchant for uncovering marine treasures like colorful sea stars and sneaky little crabs.
And if you’re driving, you can park on Hayward Street, which also doubles as a vantage point for panoramic views of the area.
For the pros craving an underwater adventure, strap on your snorkel or scuba gear and swim about 150 meters from shore to hit the reef. Don’t go alone, especially if you’re a newbie, as the reef has tricky holes that can suck reckless divers.
Second Valley Beach
– From travel_australia_now
Distance from the Adelaide CBD: 93.2 kilometers
Travel Time from the Adelaide CBD: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Second Valley Beach’s rock pools are some of the closest in town. They’re also fantastic pit stops for tourists heading to Kangaroo Island, as Second Valley Beach is a 15-minute drive from Cape Jervis, where ferries going to Kangaroo Island dock.
The rock pools are shallow and best for sunbathing. Daredevils who enjoy diving, though, can still go all-out on the cliffs surrounding the ocean and rock pools.
Finding the pools is a breeze. All you have to do is look for the unmissable jetty and go left.
If you go right, you’ll find the perfect spot to lay out your picnic blanket.
When it comes to parking, it’s simple. Roll up right to the beach itself, no need to hustle for a spot elsewhere.
Stokes Bay
– From paulpayasalad
Distance from the Adelaide CBD: 221.1 kilometers
Travel Time from the Adelaide CBD: 4 hours and 11 minutes
Forget the pebbly beach that’ll greet you; Stokes Bay on Kangaroo Island’s North Coast will surprise you. Yeah, it looks all rugged and uninviting when you roll up to that car park but hold tight; there’s more to this place than meets the eye.
Simply follow the secret path through the rocks, caves, and the nifty beach sign, and boom, you’ll hit the jackpot—a serene, kick-back-and-relax kind of beach with kid-friendly rock pools.
Bring your snorkeling gear, as the rock pools here have sea stars, shells, tiny crabs, colorful algae, and more.
Point Ellen
– From _serio_
Distance from the Adelaide CBD: 222.1 kilometers
Travel Time from the Adelaide CBD: 4 hours and 1 minute
When hitting up Kangaroo Island, Point Ellen is a must-have on your checklist. It’s all about coastal vibes and scenery, with the Southern Ocean doing its thing, slamming waves against the cliffs, giving you Insta-worthy views.
The rock pools here have a distinct turquoise color and a smooth sandy surface. Just a heads up: watch yourself when you take that plunge, as the waves can crash right into the pool over the rocks.
Parking isn’t an issue too. You can ditch your ride at the parking area past Vivonne Bay Jetty and move about 50 meters south to reach Point Ellen.
Shell Beach
– From beckkyhamilton
Distance from the Adelaide CBD: 285.7 kilometers
Travel Time from the Adelaide CBD: 3 hours and 13 minutes
Shell Beach’s rock pools took Instagram by storm with its granite outcrops and glassy waters. Moreover, the rock pools are underwater wonderlands showcasing fish, seaweeds, corals, and sea stars galore.
For the thrill-seekers on the lookout for an adrenaline rush, Shell Beach has cliffs perfect for heart-pumping rock-jumping adventures.
Just remember that before you can get here, you must get a national park pass permit from Innes National Park. Complete the process online beforehand, as there’s limited phone service in this area.
Furthermore, Shell Beach is jampacked during warmer months, so visit during winter or autumn if you seek a more relaxed atmosphere.
Moana Beach
– From staceyaustinkirsch
Distance from the Adelaide CBD: 37.8 kilometers
Travel Time from the Adelaide CBD: 42 minutes
Moana Beach is our go-to for a cool seaside hangout that won’t take hours to reach. The rock pools here are shallow but slippery, so lace up aqua shoes with a killer grip to avoid an unplanned slip ‘n slide situation.
The rock pools have a myriad of sea glass, too, so beachcombers will definitely have a blast. Additionally, there are shower facilities to rinse off the saltwater and sand.
The best part is if you’re rollin’ in a 4WD, fork over eight bucks, and you’ll get a parking spot right by the shore. Wait for the sunset for a golden end to your beach outing.
Kingston Park
– From kaz_kapturez
Distance from the Adelaide CBD: 17.8 kilometers
Travel Time from the Adelaide CBD: 26 minutes
A 4-minute drive from the relaxing seaside suburb of Brighton will take you to Kingston Park, a coastal reserve that’s a hit among kids, cyclists, and runners.
The rock pools here are hidden by colossal rock formations, so a bit of exploration is required. Once you find them, you’ll relish in cool and clear waters where sea stars and tiny fish live.
Your little adventurers can also have fun in the reserve’s playground—if they still have energy after a day of swimming. Additionally, your leashed puppers can have a blast, as the area is dog-friendly.
Lastly, those craving a bit of a workout with a view can scale hills surrounding the rock pools for a panorama of the cityscape and the coastline.
