Bask in the invigorating sun at the best beach walking trails in Adelaide
One of the best perks of being an Adelaidean? Sun-soaked beach escapes just twenty minutes from home, perfect for whenever I’m restless, drained from work, or craving a dose of Vitamin D!
As you stroll along these beach trails, you’ll notice how beautifully locals have conserved them while keeping them highly accessible. All you need are some snacks and water, and you’re all set!
Ready to bask in the glow of the sun? Check out the best beach walking trails in the city here!
Hallett Cove Boardwalk
Photo by tim_arcadia
Website: https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/parks/hallett-cove-conservation-park
Address: Heron Way, Hallett Cove
Contact details: +61 8 8375 6600
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
The Hallett Cove Boardwalk gives a fantastic view of the rocky coastline that bridges Marino and Hallett Cove. Here, you get a stunning look at the naturally rugged cliffs and reef platforms that bring an edge to Adelaide’s gorgeous sealine.
In 2024, two new suspension bridges were added to link Kurnabinna Gully and Grey Gully, adding a breezy and thrilling chapter to the walking trail here.
The highlight, of course, is Sugarloaf, a geological wonder that looks like fluffy bread but is actually the remains of Permian glaciation.
Pro tips:
There are two toilets and two cafes along the trail, so you can carry light when walking here.It’s a great idea to walk the trail during the afternoon so you can see the orange glow of the sun beautifully reflected on the jagged rocks.
Semaphore Beach
Photo by ladyhaylz81
Website: https://southaustralia.com/products/adelaide/attraction/semaphore-beach
Address: Semaphore
Contact details: (08) 8449 7101
Semaphore Beach walking trail is one of the easiest in the city, making it popular among families and senior citizens. Here, you can listen to some music and walk at your own pace as you travel to Grange in about an hour and a half.
The white sandy beach creates beautiful photo opportunities, and the shallow waters nearby are gentle enough even for those who are nervous around water.
It’s especially fun to visit the walking trail during summer where carousels, food stands, rental bikes, and more bring more life to the shoreline!
Pro tips:
If you’re lucky, you can see some of the native dolphins or fur seals playing from the jetty. The prices for water around the area are a bit high, so it’s better to bring your own bottle.
O’Sullivan Beach
Photo by petramooy
Website: https://www.onkaparingacity.com/
Address: Mentone Parade, O’Sullivan Beach
Contact details: +61 8 8384 0666
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Just south of the CBD is the magnificent coast park trail that connects O’Sullivan Beach to Christies Beach. This is a fantastic spot for those looking for a breather from the cramped city, as the paths here are wide, windy, and serene.
This is one of the few trails that allow horse riding, making it also perfect for photography sessions.
The path here is mostly flat and features several shelters in case the sun’s blaze gets too overwhelming. You can finish the trail within one hour, which is enough for a good dose of Vitamin D.
Pro tips:
Dogs are always welcome on the park trail. Just be sure to keep them on a leash. There is also a skate park on the path from O’Sullivan to Christies Beach. Bring your gear if you’re in the mood for a quick skate session.
Port Noarlunga Beach
Photo by officialfleurieupeninsula
Website: https://southaustralia.com/
Address: Esplanade, Port Noarlunga, Fleurieu Peninsula
Contact details: 088384 0666
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
If you have the time to travel 30 kilometers from Adelaide, you’re in for a treat at the Port Noarlunga Beach walking trail to Moana. The iconic red sandstone beach serves as your bridge towards the waters, which are great for surfing and snorkeling.
The beach boasts one of South Australia’s premier boardwalks, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the expansive shoreline from its upper section. At night, the illuminated timber jetty stretching from the shore to the reef creates a truly magical scene.
Pro tips:
Before swimming, be sure that a member of the Port Noarlunga Surf Lifesaving Club is nearby so you know you’re safe.If you’re hungry and looking for some quality local food, check out the nearby shops like Drifters Pizza Bar and Agatha’s Kitchen.
Glenelg Beach
Photo by kennysgoh
Website: https://southaustralia.com/products/adelaide/attraction/glenelg-beach
Address: Esplanade, Glenelg
Contact details: 088229 9999
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
The Glenelg Beach to Seacliff Coastal Walk is very IG-worthy, featuring a welcome blend of urban delights like cafes and shops along with historic mansions and Aboriginal cultural spots.
As a path that’s mostly flat, it’s a favorite among many fitness enthusiasts like cyclists and joggers. Of course, those who only want to stroll with a gelato in hand are equally welcome.
Pro tips:
Before heading near the water, it’s a good idea to ask around, as certain areas of the beach may be submerged during high tide.There are water fountains here just for dogs. Be sure to let them drink, especially when you see them panting.
Snowden Beach
Photo by packingless
Website: https://www.cityofpae.sa.gov.au/
Address: Largs North
Contact details: (088)405-6600
Snowden Beach offers a perfect beach walk experience with a trail that takes only about 30 minutes to complete. What brings it to life is the view of the Port River Sailing Club which conducts races for dinghies.
Not to mention, it’s also a great spot to watch for dolphins, as they also frequent this area. Sometimes they even play with the Sailing Club!
Pro tips:
It’s recommendable to visit them at night, as the lights from the port give it a sentimental vibe. The shifting sands of the beach make it less friendly for swimming, so it’s better to stick to strolling and sightseeing while here.
Brighton Beach
Photo by charlieaves
Address: Brighton
The Brighton Beach walking trail provides a moderately challenging path that mixes both paved and unpaved paths to bring some more action to your walk.
In addition, you’ll see plenty of eye candy while you walk, including elegant metal carvings, heritage properties like the Stormont, and a beautiful view of the St. Vincent Gulf.
Pro tips:
It’s not ideal to walk here during summer days, as there is minimal shade.Make time to visit the Brighton Jetty, as the view from there is especially spectacular.
Kingston Park Coastal Reserve
Photo by 123partiutrip
Website: https://www.holdfast.sa.gov.au/kingston-park-coastal-reserve
Address: Burnham Rd, Kingston Park
Contact details: (08) 8229 9999
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Bring your young ones to the Kingston Park Coastal Reserve, as it’s a fantastic place for nature play. Featuring a kickabout area, large swings, slides, and more, the beach trail is perfect for toddlers and children.
Not to mention, there’s plenty of shade here, making the experience a literal walk in the park (or beach in this case).
The walking trail leads you from the park to Marino Rocks, offering a beautiful view of Tjilbruke Spring and Monument. This site, once sacred to the Aboriginal people, serves as a place for reflection and remembrance.
Pro tips:
This is also a great spot for picnics, so bring your mat and some food! Watch out for crabs near the waters! They won’t pinch unless you step on them.
Tennyson Dunes
Photo by tennyson_dunes_group
Website: https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/
Address: Eastcourt Rd, Tennyson
Contact details: (+61) 7133 7300
The Tennyson Dunes, also known as the Wara Wayingga-Tennyson Dunes Conservation Reserve, is an elegant display of Australia’s natural beauty. These dunnes have helped protect the coastline from storms while providing it with a lush, bushy charm.
The bushwalking trail here is a simple 1.5 km walk where you can see up to 50 species of native plants on display. There are rare animals like reptiles and birds that frequent the area.
Pro tips:
To get a full educational tour of the Tennyson Dunes, attend one of their Open Days. Updates about when these are held can be seen here.
If you see bits of garbage in the dunes, take the initiative to clean it yourself.
North Haven Beach
Photo by b_haus2020
Website: https://www.cityofpae.sa.gov.au/
Address: North Haven
Contact details: (088)405-6600
North Haven Beach is ideal for those who want to visit the city’s outer harbor, as it offers a vast, beautiful stretch of sand with a horizon that seems to go on forever.
It’s the perfect spot for some solitude, as the trail is not crowded. You’ll enjoy the stunning sunset, endless sandy paths, and the company of seagulls that call the area home.
Not to mention, the trail is also very easy to travel, as it’s mainly flat.
Pro tips:
It’s better to pack plenty of food and water when walking here, as there are fewer shops here compared to other beach walking trails. For the best experience, make sure to visit in the morning when the views are especially breathtaking.
