The South Australian capital is famous for various natural landscapes so there’s plenty of things to do outdoors! You can go hiking in Morialta Conservation Park, kayaking at Garden Island, wildlife and bird watching, biking, go the Adelaide roof climb, and more. Then of course there’s the sea, and a bevvie of Adelaide day trips focussed around that.
Hiking
Adelaide is well-known for its many walking trails. Hiking at Morialta Conservation Park in Adelaide is a go-to spot for nature lovers. The rugged cliffs command attention with their sheer presence. As you walk the trails, the landscape changes from waterfalls to peaceful, dense areas for spotting wildlife.
There are several trails, ranging from the easygoing to those that challenge your stamina. No matter your path, you’re in for views and possibly a close encounter with the park’s diverse bird life or even a sleepy koala in the eucalyptus.
Going to the park is also one of the things to do for families and friends to spend a day out, immersed in nature, without going too far from the city. Each trail has creeks and areas for a mid-hike picnic.
Chill at Port Willunga
Port Willunga is one of those beaches that you’ll remember. The cliffs are layered with colour reds, oranges, yellows, and whites, each band of colour telling its own million-year-old story. And a key feature Gull Rock, which is easily visible from the shore.
Then, there are the caves carved right into the cliff face. Fishermen used these initially to store their boats and gear, but now they become 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 way back in 1853, this jetty once made Port Willunga one of South Australia’s busiest export hubs for wheat and produce. Expanded in the 1860s, only the pylons remain now, but they’re like a ghostly frame against the waves— famous on Instagram for that nostalgic vibe.
Kayaking
Kayaking at Garden Island includes scenery and activity. The journey starts with the open river, where you can sometimes spot dolphins racing or jumping. As you move further, the sight shifts to the mangrove creeks. These narrow water paths offer a different vibe – quiet and slightly mysterious. Paddling through, you’ll catch the sound of water lapping against your kayak and the infrequent bird call.
If you’re looking for a day out to connect with nature, enjoy the peace and quiet, plus a bit of adventure, kayaking at Garden Island makes a perfect Adelaide day trip.
Discover Second Valley’s cliffs and caves
Second Valley is a hidden spot on the Fleurieu Peninsula which is a short drive from Adelaide. The main attraction is the beach, lined with rock formations and natural rock pools 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 from atop the coastal rocks.
A partially submerged cave is also on the cliff face, and it is accessible depending on the tide. For things to do in Adelaide, this day out can include photography, hiking, or just relaxing by the sea.
Morialta’s Waterfalls
Morialta Conservation Park is a place to visit if you enjoy nature, a bit of exercise and a drop of local wine! It highlights a variety of trails that take you around rugged cliffs and waterfalls. As you walk, you can see many native plants and animals typical of South Australia.
The trails can feel like a maze with multiple levels, so careful navigation is needed. After a day of hiking, if you’re up for something extra, there’s an option nearby to try some local wine. The area is known for its eco-friendly wine production!
Adelaide Botanic Gardens
The Adelaide Botanic Garden provides tranquillity and beauty in the heart of the city. You can find yourself surrounded by lush and meticulously cared-for gardens. The themed gardens showcase plants from various environments worldwide, like the Mediterranean and rainforests, and even a collection committed to health and well-being.
There’s a wetland that helps conserve water and a glasshouse, the Bicentennial Conservatory, home to a 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.
If heading to the Adelaide Hills, you should make time for the Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens. The best season to visit is autumn, when everything bursts into colour, but the gardens look fabulous no matter when you visit.
Wildlife & Bird Watching
There’s something extraordinary about seeing animals where they belong, out in the wild instead of being confined. Instead of going to a zoo, try visiting National Parks. It’s more genuine that you can see wildlife in its natural habitat.
Every year, thousands of birds travel from places like Siberia and Alaska to spend their summer down under. The Adelaide International Bird Sanctuary, which spans about 60 kilometres along the northern coastline, 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.
Visit Lake Bumbunga – The Pink Lake
Lake Bumbunga stands out among South Australia’s pink lakes, thanks to the roads that crisscross its surface. It is near Lochiel, slightly over an hour and a half drive from Adelaide. This makes it a choice for 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 is easily accessible and well worth the trip.
Adelaide Oval Roof Climb
If you are looking for different things to do in Adelaide, the Adelaide Oval Roof Climb is something to consider. 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. One of the highlights is walking out to a lean-out point 50 metres above the Oval’s cricket field. The expansive views offer a look at the urban layout and beyond. Whether you’re into architecture, sports, or just eager for adventure, this climb is another way to witness the city’s beauty from above.
Biking
If you’re up for an adventure, try exploring the Adelaide Hills with an electric bike. The Mt Lofty electric bike tour is one of the best Adelaide day trips and a way to see this area. It all begins in Hahndorf, where you catch a bus that takes you to the starting point of the bike ride.
As you go through winding trails, you’ll see views from Mt Osmond. The tour also gives you a peek into local history with stories about the Pioneer Women’s Trail, and you might even spot koalas or other wildlife along the way. 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.
