Yorke Peninsula is one of the most popular holiday destinations in South Australia, which is totally understandable when you reach the pristine, sandy coastline surrounded by vivid blue seas. You can choose from a multitude of recreational activities or simply cast a line from one of the many jetties and enjoy the surrounding scenery.

A picturesque ninety minute drive west from Adelaide, the Yorke Peninsula is perfect for the self drive holiday as the road conditions are excellent, the towns and nearby attractions are close to each other and there are just too many photo opportunities along the way. Your campervan will bring you a freedom which suits such a relaxing location so you can come and go as you please.

The climate has an almost Mediterranean appeal suitable for locals and tourists alike. Unlike other regions of Australia, all seasons are enjoyed here, with 7 degrees the lowest temperature in winter and 30 degrees the highest in summer. It doesn’t get much better than this!

There are so many towns to choose from in this region, all with excellent drawcards. Black Point is a popular seaside town with all water activities available and plenty of local attractions. Ardrossan has a different flavour with incredible scenery and cliff top lookouts. Coobowie is another fantastic holiday destination especially for families, as is Marion Bay which is located near the Innes National Park.

Kadina is the largest town in the Peninsula and a great place to stock up and explore the neighbouring attractions, and Moonta Bay is an old mining town with lovely stone buildings. Wallaroo is also popular with locals as a family holiday retreat.

There are plenty of superb caravan parks dotting the coastline such as the Port Vincent Foreshaw Caravan Park, located right on the beach front, as well the equally impressive Port Hughes Caravan Park. The Port Broughton Caravan Park, located at the top of the Peninsular is as far away from the rush of city life as could be. Stay as long as you like or maybe a travel around first to find that ideal park to base yourself.

You can’t miss Innes National Park, found on the south west tip of the peninsula, which depicts the bushland and natural beauty gracing the entire coastline. There are plenty of bushwalks leading through wild terrain and ending in panoramic views of the coastline and Southern Ocean.

The wildlife is prolific here which also attracts keen photographers and bird watchers to capture them in their natural habitat. The park is also home to plenty of grey kangaroos and emus usually spotted through the trees, or in the camping grounds.

Innes is also known as a world class surfing destination, and its incredible waters are popular with divers from all over the globe. The wildflowers are also beautiful here in spring and autumn. If you do nothing else, include this town on your itinerary for an enjoyable drive.

Take a day trip over to Troubridge Island, ideal for those who want to get away in a short amount of time. It is peaceful, rugged and isolated, with an old fashioned lighthouse adding to the charm of this amazing island.

Leven Beach is another famous spot, popular for beach fishing. It is known as one of the most pristine beaches on the peninsula, so the adjoining Burners Beach campground is worth considering to enjoy this treasure a little longer.

The Samphire Coast is a unique and diverse stretch of the peninsula which deserves attention as one of the premier bird watching locations in South Australia. You will find every species of bird imaginable here, and the area is also popular for crabbing and fishing. The whole area stretches from Port Wakefield down to St Kilda.

Wherever you travel you will meet friendly locals who will be happy to direct you on to a hidden beach, or a lookout that you ‘must’ see. Plan a holiday to the Yorke Peninsula and you will be soon on the road to complete relaxation and wonderful memories with your loved ones.

Jenny Brewer