South Australia's McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast is filled with so many incredible landscapes, delicious food, unique wine experiences, and plenty of charming coastal towns. We recently spent 4 days exploring this region, and we've put together a list of the absolute best things to do. Whether you're a foodie, wine lover, nature enthusiast, or beachgoer, McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast will have something for you.
Plan Your Visit
To help make planning your trip even easier, be sure to pick up a copy of the McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast Visitor Guide. You can find them either online here, at the Port Noarlunga Visitor Information Outlet, or even on display at the various businesses throughout the region.
Ultimate 4-Day Mclaren Vale And Fleurieu Coast Itinerary
Day 1
Morning Stroll Along Onkaparinga River
Start the first morning off by taking an easy stroll along the Onkaparinga River. The Wetlands Loop Trail is perfect for nature lovers. We spent the morning walking through the lush wetlands and were able to see so much wildlife, including a mob of kangaroos. This easy walk takes you along the banks of the river before it loops back through the picturesque boardwalks.
Chalk Hill Wines Cellar Door
Chalk Hill Wines offers one of the most breathtaking entrances and is the perfect introduction to the wineries in the region. As you walk in, you'll be greeted with panoramic views of the rolling hills. It’s the ideal spot to take in both the scenery and the flavours of McLaren Vale.
Sunset at Onkaparinga River Mouth Viewpoint
The Onkaparinga River Mouth Viewpoint is the best spot to catch sunset over the ocean and is the perfect way to end your first day in the region. The golden light and soft pink colours shine over the river as it meets the sea. There are incredible views overlooking the beach and river mouth from the top platform or you can take the stairs leading down to the water.
Day 2
Botanista Terrarium DIY Experience
The second day starts off by getting a little creative at Botanista. We had so much fun making our own terrarium. The friendly and knowledgeable owner guided us through the hands on workshop which was so insightful! You'll be able to get creative and add your own style to your personalised terrarium. We decided to go for a tropical beach theme and thought it was the perfect opportunity to add our small shells that we've been collecting along our travels.
Lunch with a view at Mamma Carmela
Within walking distance, you'll be able to enjoy a scenic lunch overlooking the beach and famous jetty at Mamma Carmela in Port Noarlunga. Their authentic Italian food and fresh seafood are the perfect way to refuel after a big day of exploring the region. It'll be hard to resist going for a swim as you enjoy lunch with views of the inviting turquoise water.
Christies Beach for sunset
Make your way to Christies Beach for a laid-back seaside vibe. You can take a stroll along the coastal esplanade before taking a dip in the ocean. The foreshore is also an ideal place to grab a rug and watch the sunset. After catching the sunset, head to one of the nearby bars for a refreshing drink.
The LandBAR
The LandBAR is just metres from Christies Beach and is the perfect place for a refreshing cocktail or beer. They have a laidback, relaxing coastal atmosphere and an outdoor deck with great sunset views.
Boomers Bar
If you're after something different, then we recommend checking out Boomers Bar. With its retro vibe, vintage decor, and classic music selection, this spot will transport you back in time for a unique night out.
Day 3
Catch Sunrise at Port Willunga Beach
A visit to Port Willunga Beach isn’t complete without exploring its famous caves. It's also the perfect place to watch the sunrise before checking out the nearby wineries. The caves were once used by fishermen to store their boats but most people use them now as the ideal place to seek shade on a hot summer day. Another unique feature is the iconic jetty remains, which, along with the caves, create stunning photo opportunities.
IvyBrook Farm and Cellar Door
IvyBrook Farm is a hidden gem and is only a short 5 minute drive from Port Willunga beach. They offer a rustic, boutique cellar door experience. The lovely family that run the cellar door have done an incredible job keeping the rustic feel and history of the renovated farm land. They have delicious wine tastings and platters that pair perfectly with the vineyard views.
Yangarra Wines
The new cellar door at Yangarra Wines is a must visit for any wine enthusiast. The massive floor to ceiling windows provide an incredible view overlooking the vineyards. One of our favourite features was the viewing platform overlooking the ceramic vessels which is where the fermentation occurs. The atmosphere during the wine tasting experience was tranquil, and they had some of the best tasting wines in the region.
Day 4
Ekhidna Kitchen and Wines
The food from Ekhidna Kitchen and Wines was to die for! They do such an amazing job pairing seasonal local produce with their unique wine blends. You can choose between the ultimate dining experience overlooking the vineyards or enjoy a casual drink in their open courtyard. Trying the food from Ekhidna Kitchen was one of our favourite things to do in Mclaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast.
Willunga Glass and Off the Slate Gallery
Check out the local artists and head into Willunga Glass, where you’ll find stunning glass art and works by local creatives at the Off the Slate Gallery. It’s the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir.
Coco and Raj
Also in Willunga, Coco and Raj is a beautiful store that sells bespoke artisan homewares and gorgeous designer fabrics for your DIY projects. Their lamps and quilts were so unique and definitely some of our favourites. If you're not into DIY, don't worry as they also provide upholstery services.
Sunset on Sellicks Beach
There's no better place than catching sunset at the iconic Sellicks Beach to end your trip. The unique landscape and massive red cliffs come to life with golden hues. Another great feature of the beach is being able to take your car on the sand to park up for the day. The sand is hard so most 2WD's won't have any issues driving along the beach, but be mindful of the tides.
Find More Info in McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast Visitor Guide
If you want to find even more amazing things to do on Fleurieu Coast, don't forget to pick up a copy of their Visitor Guide. It's your ultimate tool to unlocking the magic of the region. You can find them online here, at the Port Noarlunga Visitor Information Outlet, or they're available at various businesses throughout the region.
Whether you're sipping wine at a charming cellar door or strolling along pristine beaches, McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast is full of so many things to do and unforgettable experiences.
Have you visited this stunning region? I’d love to hear about your favourite spots! Share your adventures in the comments below or tag me on Instagram @lolahubner.
