The South Australian capital is famous for its many and varied natural landscapes, so there are plenty of things to do outdoors! You can go hiking in Morialta Conservation Park, try the Adelaide Oval Roof Climb, cruise along the Murray River and much more. Then, of course, there’s the sea, with a range of Adelaide day trips focused around that. Here are 10 ideas to consider!
#1 Strolling the Adelaide Botanic Gardens
The Adelaide Botanic Garden provides a touch of tranquillity and beauty in the heart of the city. You’ll find yourself surrounded by meticulously cared-for gardens, including themed gardens that showcase plants from various environments worldwide. Explore Mediterranean flora, rainforests, and even gardens committed to health and wellbeing. The Botanic Gardens is also home to a wetland that helps conserve water, and a glasshouse, the Bicentennial Conservatory, with its own tropical forest.
Whether you’re into rare and exotic plants or like a peaceful spot to unwind, this one of the key Adelaide day trips. You can go directly from Rundle Street’s urban vibe with its cafes and shops into this expansive green space.
Speaking of gardens, if you’re heading to the Adelaide Hills, make time to visit the Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens. The best season is autumn, when everything bursts into colour, but the gardens look fabulous no matter when you visit.
#2 Chilling at Port Willunga
A 45-minute drive south of the city, Port Willunga is one of those beaches that will stick in the memory. The cliffs are layered with colour reds, oranges, yellows and whites, with each band of colour telling its own million-year-old story. A key feature is Gull Rock, which is easily visible from the shore.
You’ll also find caves carved right into the cliff face. Fishermen used these initially to store their boats and gear; today, they’re a shady spot for a beach picnic.
The real standout, though, has to be the old jetty remains that reach out from the surf. Built back in 1853, the jetty made Port Willunga one of South Australia’s busiest export hubs for wheat and produce. Only the pylons remain now, set like a ghostly frame against the waves — and justifiably famous on Instagram for their nostalgic vibe.
#3 Wildlife and bird watching
There’s something extraordinary about seeing animals where they belong, out in the wild rather than being confined. Instead of going to a zoo, visit one of Australia’s national parks. You’re bound to see plenty of Aussie wildlife in its natural habitat. Around Adelaide, you’ll find Belair National Park, the Mount George Conservation Park, Cleland Conservation Park and others.
Every year, thousands of birds travel from places like Siberia and Alaska to spend their summer down under. The Adelaide International Bird Sanctuary, which stretches for about 60 kilometres along the coastline north of the city, is home to around 27,000 birds. If you visit between September and April, you’ll see various species living freely in their natural habitat. It’s a chance to observe these birds up close, learn about them, and catch nature without any barriers.
#4 Kayaking
For something scenic and active, try kayaking at Garden Island, located in an estuary of Port Adelaide. The journey starts in the open river, where you can sometimes spot dolphins slicing through the water. As you move further along, your sight will shift to the mangrove creeks. These narrow water paths offer a different vibe – quiet and slightly mysterious.
Garden Island is also home to the striking Ships Graveyard Maritime Heritage Trail. This area is the final resting place of more than two dozen vessels that were abandoned or scuttled in the first half of the 20th century when they had outlived their usefulness. It includes ferries, barges, sailing ships and more. It’s a fascinating place to explore by kayak.
If you’re looking for a day out to connect with nature, enjoy some peace and quiet, while also getting a hefty dose of adventure, kayaking at Garden Island makes a perfect Adelaide day trip.
#5 Discovering Second Valley’s cliffs and caves
Second Valley is a hidden spot on the Fleurieu Peninsula, around a 40-minute drive from Adelaide. The main attraction is the beach, lined with rock formations and natural rock pools where you can explore and spot some marine life.
The pebbly path heading south from the jetty leads to an even more secluded part of the coast. The walk itself is manageable and suitable for most people. As you follow the path, you’ll be rewarded with views the top of the coastal rocks. A partially submerged cave is also on the cliff face – it’s only accessible when the tide is right.
If you’re looking for things to do in Adelaide that include photography, hiking or just relaxing by the sea, this is a great option.
#6 Cruising the Murray River
The mighty Murray River is Australia’s longest river, at 2,508km. It flows through three states, including South Australia – and Adelaide is a great starting spot for exploring its waters. One popular day trip departs the city by coach, and heads through the Adelaide Hills to Mannum, a historic town on the river’s west bank. A lunch cruise on the Murray follows, before the return trip to Adelaide.
If you’re keen to explore the further stretches of the river, there are cruises of up to a week’s duration available. One popular vessel to take is the Proud Mary, a 40-year-old paddle steamer with 18 cabins for guests.
#7 Hiking around Morialta’s waterfalls
Morialta Conservation Park is just 10km northeast of Adelaide’s city centre. It’s a place to visit if you love nature, a bit of exercise and a drop of local wine! There are a variety of trails that take you around rugged cliffs and waterfalls. (The 7.5km Three Falls Grand Hike is one popular route, with a moderate difficulty rating.) As you walk, you’ll observe many native plants and animals typical of South Australia. Note: some of the trails can feel like a maze in spots, with multiple levels, so careful navigation is needed.
After a day of hiking, if you’re up for something extra, try some local wine. The area is known for its eco-friendly wine production.
#8 Visiting Lake Bumbunga, the pink lake
Lake Bumbunga stands out among South Australia’s pink lakes, thanks to the roads that crisscross its surface. It’s located near Lochiel, around a 90-minute drive from Adelaide. This makes it a top choice among Adelaide day trips or a nice stop if you’re headed to the Yorke or Eyre Peninsula.
The lake’s pink hue comes from the high salinity levels and the type of bacteria and algae that thrive in such situations. The colour can change depending on the weather and the time of year, going from a bright bubblegum pink to a more subdued hue.
Visiting Lake Bumbunga is a glimpse into a natural phenomenon that’s both beautiful and unusual. If you’re curious about pink lakes and how they get their distinctive colour, this spot in South Australia provides an example that’s easily accessible and well worth the trip.
#9 Taking in the views from the Adelaide Oval RoofClimb
If you’re looking for different things to do in Adelaide, the Adelaide Oval RoofClimb is a novel way to enjoy a view! It starts with a safety briefing to ensure everyone understands what to expect and stays secure. After that, you gear up in a suit and harness.
The climb involves following a guide who leads you across a link bridge. This bridge takes you to an open viewing deck from which you can view the city from a vantage point; it’s an interesting look at the city’s urban layout and beyond. One of the highlights is walking out to a lean-out point 50 metres above the famous cricket ground. Whether you’re into architecture, sport or just eager for adventure, this climb is another way to witness the sights of Adelaide from above.
#10 Biking
If you’re up for an adventure, try exploring the Adelaide Hills with an electric bike. For example, an electric bike tour of Mt Lofty is one of the best Adelaide day trips and a great way to see this area. One popular tour begin in Hahndorf, where you catch a bus that takes you to the starting point of the bike ride. Then, as you cycle through winding trails, you’ll see views from Mt Osmond and get a peek into local history, with stories about the Pioneer Women’s Trail. Keep an eye out for a koala along the way as well. There’s a stop at Mt Lofty Summit, where you can grab a coffee while enjoying the surroundings. The journey continues through forest trails back to Mt Osmond and eventually ends up where you started, in Hahndorf. Once there, you can take some time to wander around and explore this historic German village.
