11 Things To Do At Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park For An Epic Getaway

It’s a mystery to me why Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park isn’t on any Top 10 Australian National Parks lists.

At the south-western tip of the Yorke Peninsula in South Australia, this park is as wild and remote as it is beautiful.

It’s perfect for a nature retreat – you can surf, hike, snorkel, dive, swim, camp, go fishing… Plus there’s a shipwreck and a ghost town! This place has it all.

And the best part? It’s fully accessible by 2WD. No need for a 4WD here! The main roads are sealed, and while the smaller roads leading to the beaches and lighthouses are dirt, they’re in excellent condition.

In this guide, we’ll take you through all the best things to do in Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, from scenic hikes to fishing spots and everything in between.

Plus camping tips and where to stay if you don’t want to sleep in a tent. Let’s get started!

11 things to do in Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park

We recognise the traditional owners of this land, the Narungga nation.

1) Pondalowie Bay

Pondalowie Bay is a hotspot for surfers and anglers alike. The bay offers long, consistent waves perfect for surfing, while fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of fish such as salmon and mullet.

The surrounding sand dunes and bushland provide the perfect backdrop for a peaceful day by the water. There’s also a campground nearby, making it easy to stay overnight and enjoy the stars!

2) Dolphin Beach

This beach has calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. It’s one of the most picturesque beaches in the park, with turquoise waters and soft white sand.

If you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins swimming offshore. It’s a great spot for families looking for a safe place to cool off and relax.

Remember to be cautious of rips and currents, even in the calmer waters!

3) Shell Beach

Shell Beach is perfect for those who enjoy exploring rock pools and taking a refreshing dip in natural swimming holes.

The famous Blue Pool, located at the northern end of Shell Beach, is a stunning rock pool that’s a must-visit. The crystal-clear waters offer excellent snorkelling opportunities too.

If you’re visiting during peak times, arrive early to have the Blue Pool to yourself.

4) Browns Beach

Browns Beach is known for its excellent fishing, particularly for catching Australian salmon.

The beach is also a great place for a leisurely walk along the shore, where you can take in the views of the rugged coastline. It’s a quiet spot for those looking to escape the busier areas of the park.

The beach can be a bit windy, so bring layers!

5) Gym Beach

Gym Beach is one of the more peaceful and secluded spots in Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, with pristine shores and excellent fishing opportunities.

One of the highlights here is the Gym Beach Hike, a 10 km return trail that takes you through bushland and along the coast to Brown Beach. It’s considered moderately difficult and takes around 4 hours.

The hike is best done in the cooler part of the day, and sturdy footwear is a must, as the terrain can be uneven. Bring lots of water!

6) Bushwalking

The park is crisscrossed with walking trails ranging from short 30-minute walks to longer treks that can take several hours.

Popular trails include:

• The Inneston His­toric Walk (1-hour loop, 2km), an easy trek that takes you around the ruins of Inneston.

• West Cape Head­land Hike (30 min loop, 1 km), a quick hike to enjoy the impressive coastal views of the gulf.

• The Thomson-Pfitzner Plaster Trail (3 hours return, 7.6km), a longer trek with lots of opportunities for wildlife spotting and interpretive signage explaining the history of Inneston.

There are many more hikes to do in the park, check them out in this guide!

7) Wildlife-Spotting

Did you know that this national park was named as such because of a bird? That’s right, the Western Whipbird is the reason why the DG-I is a National Park to begin with.

You can also see emus, mallefowl, ospreys, western grey kangaroos, and even Tammar wallabies were reintroduced not too long ago!

The coastlines are also home to pods of dolphins, adding to the wildlife-watching experience.

Dusk is the best time to spot the more elusive animals, so plan to stay late if you want to increase your chances of seeing them.

8) Stenhouse Bay Jetty

The Stenhouse Bay Jetty is not only a great spot for fishing—especially if you’re after squid—but it’s also a wonderful place to take in the history of the area.

The jetty once served the gypsum mining industry and now offers a glimpse into the park’s industrial past. The rugged coastline and jetty make for perfect sunset photos.

9) The Lighthouses

Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park is home to two lighthouses, the Cape Spencer and West Cape lighthouses.

These spots offer spectacular 360-degree views of the coastline, making them perfect for photographers and anyone wanting to soak in the breathtaking scenery.

On clear days, you can see as far as Kangaroo Island from Cape Spencer!

10) Inneston Historic Township

The abandoned gypsum mining town of Inneston is inside the park.

You can wander through the old buildings, which include a general store, bakery, and post office, and imagine life during the early 1900s.

Some of the buildings have been restored and are available for overnight stays, like the Post Office Lodge, the Norfolk Lodge, or the Shepherd’s Hut! This offers a unique way to experience the park’s history.

11) Ethel Shipwreck

The Ethel Shipwreck is one of the park’s most iconic landmarks. The ship ran aground in 1904 and its remains are still visible on the beach, which is a haunting yet beautiful scene.

It’s a short walk from the road, and the rusting iron hull provides a great photo opportunity, especially during low tide where you can see most of it.

The remains of the Ethel are slowly being swallowed by the sands, but it’s still a must-see site for anyone interested in South Australia’s maritime history.

Camping at Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park

The park has several campgrounds available. They’re a bit limited, unpowered, and only for self-sufficient campers, so you must come well-prepared:

• Pondalowie Bay Campground: One of the most popular sites, it has 26 spots and it’s located close to Pondalowie Bay’s surf break. It’s perfect for surfers and those looking to fish. The beach access is ideal, and there’s a section for both camper trailers and tents.

• Shell Beach Campground: A quiet spot with 8 campsites, Shell Beach offers easy access to the beach and is perfect for snorkelling and swimming.

• Casuarina Campground: Located in a peaceful bush setting, Casuarina has only 10 sites and is a 10-minute walk to Pondalowie Bay. It’s ideal for campers seeking tranquillity with easy access to great fishing and surfing.

• Gym Beach Campground: If you’re after seclusion, Gym Beach is a basic campground that offers the quietest camping experience in the park. It’s close to the Gym Beach hiking trail and is great for fishing and bushwalking.

You have to book the campsite online and pay the entry and camping fees in advance, here. Some campgrounds fill up quickly during peak seasons, so it’s best to book early!

Suggested camping gear:

• Water: There are no drinking water facilities available in most campgrounds, so bring enough water for your stay.

• Food: No shops are available in the park, so pack enough food and snacks. Stock up in Marion Bay.

• Firewood: Collection of firewood within the park is prohibited, so bring your own if you plan on using fire pits (check local fire bans).

• Sun Protection: Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential, as many campsites have limited shade.

• Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be active, especially in warmer months.

• Warm Clothes: Even in summer, evenings can get chilly, so pack layers.

• Torch: It gets dark after sunset.

Don’t want to camp? No problem

The National Park also has lodging! That way you can still be inside the park and surrounded by nature and wildlife, without roughing it in a campground.

Here are the most popular lodges in the park.

Or you can stay in Marion Bay, a town that’s just outside the National Park.

Marion Bay Holiday Villas is a solid option there, with villas that accommodate up to 5 people and at walking distance from the beach.

It also has options for any budget – from motels to glamping. Check more accommodation options in Marion Bay here.

When is the best time to visit Innes National Park?

The best time to visit Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park is in summer (December – February). The weather is perfect for water-based activities and camping.

Just be prepared for the heat and bring plenty of water and sun protection.

If you’re more into bushwalking or prefer cooler temperatures, autumn (March to May) is a great option. The weather is milder, and the scenery is still beautiful.

Spring (September to November) is when the wildflowers are in full bloom, adding some extra colour to your hikes. It’s a fantastic time for photographers and nature lovers.

Winter (June to August) brings cooler weather, but if you don’t mind the cold, it’s great for peaceful hikes and you might even spot some southern right whales from the cliffs. Just pack some warm clothes because it can get chilly!

How to get to Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park

The easiest way to get to Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park is by driving, as it’s located about 300 kilometres from Adelaide.

The drive will take you roughly 3.5 to 4 hours, and it’s a pretty straightforward trip via Port Wakefield, Ardrossan, Minlaton, and Warooka.

You can rent a car from Adelaide. Compare these two rental companies for the best deals: Rental Cars and Discover Cars.

The park is accessible by 2WD, but if you plan to explore some of the more remote areas, it’s worth checking if your rented vehicle can handle unsealed roads. Some rental companies do not allow this.

Once you’re on the road, make sure to download a map or use GPS before heading into the park, as mobile coverage can be spotty in some areas.

There aren’t direct buses to the park itself, so having a car is your best bet for flexibility and exploring at your own pace!

How many days to stay in Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park?

Plan to stay at least 2 to 3 days. You could spend a full day just exploring the beaches like Pondalowie Bay and Shell Beach, or checking out the Ethel shipwreck and the lighthouses.

Plus, there are some awesome bushwalking trails that are worth taking your time with.

If you’re into camping, you might want to stretch your stay to 3 or 4 days, so you can relax and not feel rushed.

Top Tips

The park can get seriously windy, especially near the coast. Make sure your tent is securely pegged down, and if you’re planning a beach day, be ready for sand flying everywhere!

Luckily, there are signs to remind you of this…

So, even in summer, the evenings can get chilly. Pack some warm layers, and if you’re camping, make sure you’ve got a good sleeping bag.

And don’t rely on your phone’s GPS for everything. Download maps ahead of time, reception is quite spotty.

Did you know?

Back in the early 1900s, Inneston was a bustling gypsum mining town. William Innes, whom the town was named after, discovered large gypsum deposits in the area and kickstarted the industry.

At its peak, the town was home to around 200 people, complete with its own bakery, post office, and even a cricket pitch!

The town was abandoned in the 1930s during the Great Depression, but you can still wander through the old buildings today.

FAQs

The bottom line

Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park might seem like just another coastal park, but it’s packed with sandy beaches, rugged landscapes, and rich history waiting to be uncovered!

From the panoramic views at Cape Spencer Lighthouse to the scenic West Cape Headland Hike, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures.

Add in the unique Inneston Historic Walk and the opportunity to explore untouched wildlife, and you’ve got a getaway that goes way beyond the ordinary.

Whether you’re hiking through diverse trails, relaxing by the beach, or stepping back in time with a visit to the Ethel Shipwreck, Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park has something for everyone.

If you’re planning a visit to the Yorke Peninsula, don’t forget to put this incredible park on your list. There’s so much more to see than you’d expect!