With secluded beaches surrounded by red sandstone cliffs and central beaches never more than a moment from bustling nightlife, SA has a beach town for everyone.
Beaches within 1 hour of the CBD
Henley beach
While there are many pristine Adelaide beaches to choose from – Glenelg, West Beach, and Brighton, to name a few – Henley is always a favourite for visitors and locals alike. The near-white sand beaches stretch from the café-filled, bustling Henley centre to more secluded residential areas, so there’s a part of the beach for everyone. A great spot for brunch, spotting seals along the jetty, and some sunbathing with friends, Henley is a must-see cityside beach.
glenelg beach
Glenelg Beach is a great spot for people of all ages; young families flock to the beach for the fun downtown park and waterslide and amusement centre, singles hit Glenelg for the cafés and bustling nightlife scene, and retirees buy up real estate for the oceanfront views. The popular beach, conveniently located on the tram line to the city, also has beach volleyball courts and a boardwalk spanning to Brighton, so it’s a go-to for any South Australian summer day.
Port noarlunga beach
Port Noarlunga Beach is gorgeous, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking, and it’s surrounded by stunning red sandstone cliffs. Beachgoers descend a winding wooden staircase with jaw-dropping views over the ocean to the beautiful, uncongested beach. About a 45-minute drive from Adelaide, this beach is absolutely worth the trip for a day of sunshine and swimming.
Aldinga Beach
Aldinga Beach is popular for a reason. The Fleurieu Peninsula spot is one of the country’s only beaches where you’re allowed to drive your car right on the sand, providing easy access to the water’s edge. The beach, which stretches beautifully into unique grassy cliffs, is known for swimmable waves, great scuba diving and snorkelling, and an incredible underwater cliff. Aldinga’s town area also has some great eateries, bars, and a new brewery to complete your idyllic beach day.