Top 10 Things To Do in Victor Harbor, SA Australia (with local Hidden Gems)

Nestled along the stunning Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia, Victor Harbor is a picturesque coastal town located about 80 km south of Adelaide. With its pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and abundant wildlife, this charming destination offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and exciting activities for visitors to explore.

Join us as we uncover the hidden gems and reveal the top things to do in Victor Harbor, a captivating coastal haven that promises unforgettable experiences. Immerse yourself in the area’s breathtaking landscapes, encounter its fascinating wildlife, and embark on a remarkable journey through the enchanting world of Victor Harbor.

Things To Do In Victor Harbor, SA

1. Softfoot Farm

Discover the enchanting world of alpacas at Softfoot Farm, a unique and unforgettable experience for all ages. This family-owned farm offers guided tours where you’ll learn about alpaca farming, breeding, and the luxurious alpaca fleece. Get up close and personal with these gentle creatures, feeding and interacting with them in their natural habitat. After your tour, indulge in a delicious meal at the Swagman Country Dining, where you can savor mouth-watering local cuisine while enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Softfoot Farm is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and those seeking a truly authentic Australian experience.

• Address: 2114 Hindmarsh Valley Rd, Hindmarsh Valley SA 5211, Australia
• Best time of the year: Open year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
• Opening Hours: Tours by appointment only, contact the farm to book a tour.

2. Granite Island

Embark on an adventure to Granite Island, a breathtaking island teeming with natural beauty and native wildlife. Accessible via the iconic Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tram, the island offers a range of activities for all ages. The Kaiki Walk, a 1.9 km loop trail, is perfect for families and offers stunning views of the coastline and the chance to spot local wildlife, such as the rare Little Penguin. For the more adventurous, explore the island’s rugged coastline and hidden coves, or simply relax and soak up the sun on the pristine beaches. Granite Island is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a serene escape.

• Address: Granite Island, Victor Harbor SA 5211, Australia
• Best time of the year: Year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
• Opening Hours: Accessible 24/7, but the horse-drawn tram operates from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm daily.

3. Urimbirra Wildlife Park

Get ready for an unforgettable encounter with Australia’s unique wildlife at Urimbirra Wildlife Park. This open-range park allows you to get up close and personal with iconic Australian animals, such as kangaroos, koalas, and reptiles. Hand-feed kangaroos, cuddle a koala, and learn about the fascinating world of reptiles with daily keeper talks and interactive experiences. Urimbirra Wildlife Park is the perfect destination for families and animal lovers alike, offering a fun and educational experience that will leave you with lasting memories of your visit to Victor Harbor.

• Address: 10 Welch Rd, Hindmarsh Valley SA 5211, Australia
• Best time of the year: Year-round
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm

4. Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tram

Step back in time and experience a unique mode of transport on the Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tram. This historic tramway takes you on a scenic journey from the mainland to Granite Island, offering stunning views of the coastline and the opportunity to spot local wildlife. Pulled by majestic Clydesdale horses, the tram is a charming and leisurely way to explore the area, allowing you to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience, perfect for families and history buffs alike.

• Address: 1 Esplanade, Victor Harbor SA 5211, Australia
• Best time of the year: Year-round
• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm

5. Waitpinga Farm Quad Bike Adventures

For adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers, Waitpinga Farm Quad Bike Adventures offers an exhilarating experience like no other. Explore 400 acres of historic farming land on a guided quad bike tour, navigating through diverse terrain and taking in the breathtaking scenery of the Fleurieu Peninsula. With experienced guides leading the way, you’ll learn about the history of the farm and the local area while enjoying an action-packed adventure. Suitable for all skill levels, Waitpinga Farm Quad Bike Adventures is a must-try activity for those seeking excitement and a unique way to explore the region.

• Address: 353 Waitpinga Rd, Waitpinga SA 5211, Australia
• Best time of the year: Year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
• Opening Hours: Tours by appointment only, contact the farm to book a tour.

6. The Big Duck Boat Tours

Embark on an unforgettable ocean adventure with The Big Duck Boat Tours. This thrilling boat tour takes you along the stunning coastline of Victor Harbor, offering the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and sea lions in their natural habitat. The knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the local marine life and the region’s history, making this an educational and exciting experience for all ages. Don’t forget your camera, as you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture the breathtaking scenery and incredible wildlife encounters. The Big Duck Boat Tours is a must-do activity for nature lovers and those seeking a memorable ocean adventure.

• Address: 2 Flinders Parade, Victor Harbor SA 5211, Australia
• Best time of the year: June to September for whale watching, year-round for other marine life.
• Opening Hours: Tours operate daily, check their website for tour times.

7. Surfing Lessons

Catch a wave and learn to surf at the beautiful Middleton beach, just a short drive from Victor Harbor. With professional instructors guiding you every step of the way, you’ll be riding the waves in no time. These surfing lessons cater to all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced surfers looking to improve their technique. The pristine waters and consistent waves make this the perfect location to learn and practice your surfing skills. Don’t miss this exhilarating experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the ocean and a lifelong passion for surfing.

• Address: Middleton Beach, Middleton SA 5213, Australia
• Best time of the year: Spring and autumn for milder weather and consistent waves.
• Opening Hours: Lessons by appointment, contact the surf school to book a lesson.

8. The Cockle Train

All aboard The Cockle Train for a nostalgic journey through the picturesque coastal scenery between Victor Harbor and Goolwa. This historic steam train takes you on a leisurely ride along the stunning Fleurieu Peninsula, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the opportunity to spot local wildlife. With beautifully restored carriages and friendly staff, The Cockle Train provides a charming and relaxing experience for all ages. This unique mode of transport is perfect for families, history buffs, and those seeking a scenic and leisurely way to explore the region.

• Address: Esplanade, Victor Harbor SA 5211, Australia
• Best time of the year: Year-round
• Opening Hours: Check their website for train schedules.

9. McLaren Vale Wineries

Indulge your senses and explore the world-renowned McLaren Vale wine region, just a short drive from Victor Harbor. Visit notable wineries such as Chapel Hill, d’Arenburg, Fox Creek Wines, and Hugh Hamilton Wines, where you can sample a variety of award-winning wines and learn about the winemaking process. Don’t miss a tasting at Cape Jaffa Wines, an award-winning winery located along the Southern Ocean Drive, offering stunning views and exceptional wines. The McLaren Vale wine region is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of South Australia’s finest wines.

• Address: McLaren Vale, SA, Australia
• Best time of the year: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and beautiful vineyard scenery.
• Opening Hours: Vary by winery, check individual winery websites for hours.

10. Goodieson Brewery

Quench your thirst and sample some of the best craft beers in the region at Goodieson Brewery, located near Victor Harbor. This popular brewery offers a range of delicious beers, from refreshing pilsners to rich stouts, all brewed on-site using traditional techniques and the finest ingredients. Enjoy a tasting paddle and discover your favorite brew, or simply relax in the brewery’s picturesque beer garden. Goodieson Brewery is a must-visit destination for beer lovers and those seeking a laid-back and enjoyable afternoon in the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula.

• Address: 194 Sand Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171, Australia
• Best time of the year: Year-round
• Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 12 pm to 5 pm

Towns Nearby Victor Harbor, SA

Here are some nearby towns and suburbs around Victor Harbor, SA, along with their highlights, attractions, distance from Victor Harbor, and reasons why they are worth visiting:

1. Goolwa, SA (17 km from Victor Harbor): A historic river port town with heritage buildings, galleries, and cafes. Enjoy the scenic Goolwa Wharf, ride the Cockle Train, or take a cruise on the River Murray.
2. Port Elliot, SA (7 km from Victor Harbor): A charming coastal town with beautiful beaches, such as Horseshoe Bay, and a vibrant main street filled with cafes, shops, and galleries.
3. Middleton, SA (12 km from Victor Harbor): Known for its excellent surfing conditions, Middleton Beach is a popular spot for surfers and beachgoers. The town also offers a range of cafes and shops.
4. McLaren Vale, SA (41 km from Victor Harbor): A renowned wine region with award-winning wineries, such as Chapel Hill, d’Arenburg, Fox Creek Wines, and Hugh Hamilton Wines. Enjoy wine tastings and explore the picturesque vineyards.
5. Willunga, SA (39 km from Victor Harbor): A historic town with a vibrant main street, featuring cafes, restaurants, and shops. Visit the Willunga Farmers Market on Saturdays for fresh local produce and artisan products.
6. Aldinga Beach, SA (45 km from Victor Harbor): A beautiful beach with clear waters and soft sand, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. The nearby Aldinga Scrub Conservation Park offers walking trails and birdwatching opportunities.
7. Cape Jervis, SA (47 km from Victor Harbor): The gateway to Kangaroo Island, Cape Jervis offers stunning coastal views and the opportunity to spot whales during their migration season. Take a ferry to Kangaroo Island for a day trip or longer stay.

Each of these towns and suburbs offers unique attractions and experiences, making them worthwhile destinations for visitors to Victor Harbor and the surrounding areas.

Getting To Victor Harbor, SA

To get to Victor Harbor, SA from common destinations or origins as a local tourist, you have several options for both public transport and driving.

From Adelaide CBD:

• By bus: Take the Adelaide Metro’s SouthLink bus service from Adelaide Central Bus Station to Victor Harbor. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Check the Adelaide Metro website (https://www.adelaidemetro.com.au) for bus schedules and ticketing information.
• By car: Drive south on the M2 and continue onto the A13 (Main South Road). Follow the A13 until you reach Victor Harbor. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic.

From other nearby towns:

• From Goolwa: Drive west on the B37 (Goolwa Road) for about 20 minutes or 17 km.
• From Port Elliot: Drive south on the B37 (Port Elliot Road) for about 10 minutes or 7 km.
• From Middleton: Drive south on the B37 (Middleton Road) for about 15 minutes or 12 km.

For public transport options from other nearby towns, use the South Australia Public Transport website (https://www.adelaidemetro.com.au) or app to plan your journey, as it provides detailed information on bus routes, schedules, and ticketing.