Yorke Peninsula Road Trip: 8-Day Itinerary + FREE Map
This is the ultimate adventure for anyone keen on exploring South Australia’s stunning coastlines, charming small towns, and hidden gems… Without straying too far from Adelaide!
The peninsula isn’t huge, but there’s so much to see and do that you’ll want to take your time.
We’ve put together an 8-day itinerary that covers all the highlights, from the historic Ardrossan to the wild beauty of Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park and its gorgeous sandy beaches.
It’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, with plenty of scenic drives, great spots for swimming, snorkelling, fishing, and surfing, as well as heaps of wildlife spotting.
If you’re short on time, you can do a 5-day version of the trip, but 8-10 days gives you a chance to really soak in everything the Yorke Peninsula has to offer.
This itinerary has got you covered with tips on where to stay, what to see, and even a free map you can use offline!
Ready to hit the road? Let’s go!
8-day itinerary for a Yorke Peninsula road trip
This 8-day itinerary takes you to the most popular attractions in the area and some hidden gems. You can make it shorter if you want, but we recommend doing at least 5 days!
We recognise the traditional owners of the Yorke Peninsula, the Narungga people.
Day 1: Adelaide to Ardrossan via Port Clinton (150 km, 1h 45m)
Start your road trip early to avoid the morning traffic leaving Adelaide, towards the beautiful Ardrossan.
You could do the drive without stopping, but consider taking a break at Port Clinton! This is a small coastal town with calm, shallow waters.
The Port Clinton Lookout offers a great spot to take in views of Gulf St Vincent. For those keen on stretching their legs, hop on a section of the Walk the Yorke trail, a 500 km-long hike that starts right in this town!
Once you hit Ardrossan, head to the Ardrossan Lookout for sweeping views over the coastline and the town’s dolomite quarry.
Next, explore the Ardrossan Heritage Museum, where you can dive into the town’s rich maritime history, complete with shipwreck tales and stories of the local dolomite mining industry.
Grab a bite at one of the local pubs or cafes in town (the Ardrossan Bakery is a must). Afterwards, you can stroll along the jetty, popular with local fishers for blue swimmer crabs, tommies, and garfish!
Where to stay in Ardrossan?
The Ardrossan Caravan Park is one of the best accommodations in the area. It has rooms, bungalows, and campsites, suiting any budget. Plus it’s at walking distance from the jetty!
Another good alternative is the Ardrossan Hotel Motel, also at walking distance from the jetty and the beach.
Day 2: Ardrossan to Edithburgh via Port Vincent and Stansbury (85km, 1h)
Take it easy today and drive south towards Edithburgh. Enjoy the scenic coastal drive and stop at Port Vincent, a charming town known for its sheltered beaches.
Take a walk along the Port Vincent Wharf or hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from one of the local shops. The calm waters here make it perfect for beginners!
And don’t forget to grab a snack from the Port Vincent Kiosk, famous for its hot doughnuts and fish ‘n’ chips right by the water.
Then, continue to Stansbury, another beautiful seaside town. If you’re visiting between October and April, don’t miss the Stansbury Seaside Markets, where you can sample local produce!
Stop by for a casual lunch at the Dalrymple Hotel, before continuing to Edithburgh.
Once you arrive there, explore the Flora Reserve for a chance to spot some local wildlife, or head to the jetty.
For a bit of exercise, walk along the Mosaic Trail that leads to Sultana Point, a relaxing coastal trail showcasing mosaics created by the local community!
Where to stay in Edithburgh
The Edithburgh Caravan Park is an excellent option if you want to go boating, it’s across the street from the boating ramp.
There are also several hotels and home rentals, so there’s no shortage of options!
Day 3: Edithburgh to Marion Bay via Coastal Drive (100 km, 1h 30m)
Today’s drive is all about the coastal scenery!
If you have a 4WD, head out from Edithburgh and follow the coastline towards Port Moorowie. Driving through the wind farm is a truly unique experience.
Once in Port Moorowie, stretch your legs by walking on the beach. It’s a really small town, with holiday rentals, a boat ramp, and not much else, so bring snacks from Edithburgh.
As you continue towards Marion Bay, take the time to stop at one of the lookouts along the way, like the Kangaroo Island Lookout and the Meehan Hill Lookout!
Once you reach Marion Bay, you’ll find yourself in a small coastal town that’s a gateway to the Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park.
Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun at the local beach. There are two sides, one for surfing and the other for swimming, so it caters to both thrill-seekers and families!
For those keen on fishing, there are plenty of spots along the beach and the Marion Bay jetty where you can try your luck.
When hunger strikes, head to the Marion Bay Tavern, well-known for its seafood and wood-fired pizzas.
If you’re keen on exploring the coast from a different angle, consider joining a Marion Bay Ocean Safari tour, where you might spot dolphins, sea lions, and even osprey!
Where to stay in Marion Bay (and nearby)
You can spend the night at the Marion Bay Caravan Park or the Marion Bay Holiday Villas.
Or stay at one of the many campgrounds or historic lodges of Dhibla Guuranda-Innes National Park!
We recommend doing this if you can, there’s nothing like waking up surrounded by that kind of remote nature.
Camping there is a dream. The Pondalowie Bay Campground is close to the surf and is a popular spot for those wanting to spend the night under the stars.
If you prefer something quieter, Shell Beach Campground offers easy access to snorkelling and swimming spots.
If you’d rather sleep under a roof, these are the best lodging options at the National Park!
Stock up on food, water, and petrol in Marion Bay before heading to the Innes National Park!
Day 4: Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park
Spend the whole day exploring Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, the gem of the Yorke Peninsula.
It’s filled with wildlife (kangaroos, emus, beautiful birds) and the white sandy beaches will blow your mind!
You can easily spend 3-4 days here, but if you only have 1 day, here are some things we recommend doing:
Pondalowie Bay, a favourite for surfers and anglers. The long waves are perfect for catching a surf, while fishing enthusiasts can try their luck with salmon and mullet.
Dolphin Beach for a swim or snorkel in the clear turquoise waters. It’s one of the most picturesque spots in the park, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins playing offshore.
Ethel Shipwreck, one of the park’s iconic landmarks. The rusting remains of the ship make for an eerie, yet beautiful scene on the beach, especially at low tide when more of the wreck is visible.
Cape Spencer Lighthouse and take in the sweeping panoramas of the rugged coastline. On clear days, you can even see Kangaroo Island in the distance.
Inneston Historic Walk is a great way to step back in time. Wander through the ruins of the old gypsum mining town and imagine what life was like in the early 1900s.
We wrote a full guide with all the things to do in the Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park and how to plan your visit, check it out here for more ideas!
Day 5: Innes National Park to Point Turton via Corny Point (90 km, 1h)
Start your morning with a leisurely drive out of Innes National Park and make your way to Corny Point, where you’ll find the Corny Point Lighthouse.
This spot offers great views of the coastline, and it’s a good place to stretch your legs while learning a bit about the maritime history of the area.
Nearby, Berry Bay is perfect for a quick dip or watching the surfers hit the waves!
For a more laid-back vibe, head to Flaherty’s Beach. Its shallow, crystal-clear waters are ideal for families or just relaxing by the shore.
Once you’ve explored Corny Point, continue your drive to Point Turton. This charming coastal town is known for its fishing and laid-back atmosphere.
Stroll along the Point Turton Jetty and try your luck catching squid, tommy ruff, or blue swimmer crabs. For those who prefer not to fish, just enjoy the views across Hardwicke Bay.
Finish the day with a meal at Tavern on Turton while watching the sunset over the bay!
Where to stay in Point Turton
Point Turton Caravan Park is right across the boat ramp, with cabins and campsites offering awesome views over Hardwicke Bay.
There are also plenty of holiday homes you can rent if you want a bit more space and privacy, all just a short stroll from the beach and jetty.
Day 6: Point Turton to Port Victoria via Minlaton and Port Rickaby (80 km, 1h)
After breakfast, head inland to Minlaton, home to the famous Watsacowie Brewing Company! Try their locally-brewed craft beers, made using barley from the Yorke Peninsula.
If beer isn’t your thing, Minlaton is also known for its local produce, so grab some snacks for the road from one of the farm shops or bakeries in town.
Once you’ve stocked up, take a detour to Port Rickaby, a peaceful coastal town with a beautiful, quiet beach. It’s perfect for swimming, fishing, or just lounging on the sand.
The beach’s long stretches of white sand make it ideal for a picnic or a relaxing walk.
Your final stop for the day is Port Victoria, one of the last working ports for windjammers in Australia.
Explore the Port Victoria Maritime Museum, which offers fascinating insight into the town’s rich seafaring history.
In the evening, catch the sunset from the jetty or try your hand at fishing. If you want to explore the water, there are local charters that can take you out for some of the best fishing in the region, targeting species like snapper, whiting, and squid.
Where to stay in Port Victoria
The Gulfhaven Caravan Park is a solid choice, right by the beach and jetty, perfect for fishing and relaxing.
If you prefer more comfort, there are a few cosy holiday rentals around town, offering great views of the coastline and an easy walk to the local pub and jetty.
Day 7: Port Victoria to Moonta (60 km, 45m)
Today you’ll head north, towards Moonta, part of the beautiful Copper Coast. It’s a short drive inland, you’ll go through the town of Maitland. Stop for a bite at the Maitland Bakery!
Then continue to Moonta. Once you arrive there, dive straight into the town’s fascinating history at the Moonta Mines Museum to learn about the Cornish miners who once made this town thrive.
Or take a ride on the Moonta Mines Railway, which takes you on a scenic loop through the old copper mining sites.
Be sure to stop at The Cornish Kitchen for one of their famous Cornish pasties, an essential Moonta experience.
In the afternoon, head to Moonta Bay for some relaxation. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for a swim, or you can simply take a walk along the long jetty.
If you’re up for more exploration, walk the Simms Cove Trail, which offers scenic views along the coastline between Moonta Bay and Port Hughes.
Where to stay in Moonta
Spend the night at the Moonta Bay Caravan Park, or book a beachfront cabin for a peaceful evening by the water.
Day 8: Moonta to Adelaide via Wallaroo (165 km, 2h)
On your last day, take the short 20-minute drive from Moonta to Wallaroo.
Wallaroo’s long jetty is perfect for a morning of fishing or a relaxing stroll. If you prefer a more laid-back start to the day, visit Office Beach for a swim or a walk along the soft sands. North Beach is another great option.
For a bit of history, stop by the Wallaroo Heritage and Nautical Museum, where you can explore the town’s maritime history.
Grab lunch at one of Wallaroo’s cafes or head to Coopers Alehouse for some seafood with a view of the marina.
After lunch, start your drive back to Adelaide, stopping at Port Wakefield for a coffee or snack before finishing your Yorke Peninsula road trip.
Have more days? Add these spots
Troubridge Island
Troubridge Island is a protected conservation area off the coast of Edithburgh and is home to a range of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
You can explore the Troubridge Island Lighthouse, built in 1856, which is one of the highlights of the island. The island is also rich in maritime history, with many shipwrecks in the area.
Troubridge Island can only be accessed by boat, and you’ll need to book a tour in advance. Several operators offer guided tours or boat transfers from Edithburgh, making it a perfect day trip or even an overnight adventure.
Yorketown and its pink lakes
Yorketown, located inland from Edithburgh, is surrounded by over 200 salt lakes!
The Salt Lake Trail offers a unique landscape, with lakes that range in colour from bright pink to deep blue, depending on the season.
It’s a great spot for photographers and nature lovers. While you’re in Yorketown, you can also visit the town’s historic windmill or stop at one of the local bakeries for a snack.
Planning your Yorke Peninsula road trip
Do you need a 4WD?
You don’t need a 4WD for the Yorke Peninsula. The main roads are all sealed and easy to navigate. Even places like Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park are unsealed but well-kept, which a regular car can handle.
But a 4WD might come in handy if you want to go off the beaten path, as there are a few unsealed roads to some remote beaches. You can also drive on the beach in certain spots!
That said, if you’re renting a vehicle, read the fine print. Some rental services don’t allow driving on dirt roads.
If you want to stick to sealed roads, our favourite car rentals are Booking’s car rental and Discover Cars. We usually compare the two and hire the one with the best offer.
Best time to visit the Yorke Peninsula
The sweet spot for visiting is spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). The weather’s mild, the beaches are less crowded, and you avoid the summer heat and holiday crowds.
Spring is also when the wildflowers are in full bloom, which makes hiking in Innes National Park even better.
If you visit in summer (December to February), it’s prime beach time, but expect stronger winds on the coast and the flies can be pretty relentless.
Winter (June to August) can be chilly, but it’s perfect if you want a peaceful trip without the crowds, and there’s even a chance to spot whales off the coast near Innes.
Packing essentials for this road trip
Water, water, and more water! Especially if you’re heading into Innes National Park or camping anywhere remote—there are no shops in the park and very few around the southern end of the peninsula.
Insect repellent and a fly net for your hat. The flies can get brutal, especially in summer.
Layers. Even in summer, it can get chilly at night or with the coastal winds. Bring a light jacket or hoodie.
Sturdy shoes for hiking. Even short walks like the one to the Ethel Shipwreck can have rocky or uneven terrain.
Snacks and food. Stock up in bigger towns like Minlaton or Ardrossan before heading into more remote areas like Marion Bay or Innes National Park. Don’t count on last-minute supplies in smaller towns.
A phone power bank or car charger. Since reception is spotty in some areas, you might be relying on your GPS more than expected, and it’s good to have backup power.
If you’re camping, remember to bring your own firewood and make sure to check fire bans. You can’t collect firewood in national parks, and the fines for breaking fire bans are no joke.
Free map of this Yorke Peninsula Itinerary
Top Tips
Driving at dusk or dawn is dangerous due to the wildlife. Kangaroos and emus are everywhere, especially on the roads leading to and inside Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park. Avoid driving at night if possible.
Some of the smaller spots, especially the local markets or campsites, might not have card facilities. It’s always good to have a bit of cash on hand just in case you hit a cash-only situation.
The Yorke Peninsula can get REALLY windy, especially along the western coast and around the Innes National Park. If you’re camping, make sure you’ve got sturdy tent pegs and guy ropes, and double-check that your gear is secured.
Did you know?
The Yorke Peninsula is the traditional land of the Narungga people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years.
Their territory spans across the peninsula, and they have a deep connection to the land and sea, particularly the coastal areas that provided an abundance of food, including fish, shellfish, and plant life.
The Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park is also a testament to successful conservation efforts in South Australia.
In addition to its breathtaking landscapes, the park is home to several reintroduced native species, including the Tammar wallaby, which was once locally extinct.
Conservation programs have worked to restore the park’s natural biodiversity, and today visitors can see kangaroos, emus, and a wide range of bird species, including ospreys and the endangered Malleefowl.
The park’s co-management with the Narungga people ensures that both cultural heritage and environmental conservation are prioritised.
FAQs
How long does it take to drive around Yorke Peninsula?
Driving around the Yorke Peninsula without stopping takes around 5 to 6 hours, covering roughly 400-500 kilometres. But to fully explore the region and its key attractions, plan for at least 5 days.
Sort out these travel essentials before tackling this road trip!
❤️🩹 Insurance: Protect yourself and your loved ones with the travel insurance we always use
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🏕️ Caravan Rentals: Or rent a caravan in Adelaide and sleep under the stars. You can’t go wrong renting from Jucy Campervans or Star RV.
🛏️ Accommodation: Book your next stay anywhere in the Yorke Peninsula here
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