Top 13 things to do on Yorke Peninsula (By a Local)
Looking for the best activities to do on the Yorke Peninsula, South Australia?
As someone who has lived on the Yorke Peninsula, camped on the Yorke Peninsula and even walked the Yorke Peninsula, I (Margie) can say it’s an area I know well! Here’s our guide to the top 13 must-do locations for an awesome time on the Yorke Peninsula.
Yorke Peninsula Activities for outdoor enthusiasts
This largely hidden gem only two hours from Adelaide has many awesome places to visit. Grab your hiking boots, a tent or camper and your mates. This place has it all!
1. Visit Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park
Located at the tip of the Yorke Peninsula, you’ll find Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park and it’s around 3 hours drive from the city of Adelaide. The majority of the park is accessible with 2wd cars. It is the perfect day trip, but in our opinion, the best way to explore its awesome beaches is to stay for a few nights in one of many campsites available.
There is a small entry fee to pay per vehicle and a low additional fee to camp. All payments can be made on this website. Telstra phone reception is OK at the park entrance but limited elsewhere in the park.
In the warmer months there are plenty of swimmable beaches, just be sure to read the signs at each prior to jumping in the water. Some beaches have strong, dangerous currents. In the winter, you’ll find wild seas, lush green views and an abundance of wildlife. Be sure to pack some warm clothing.
Rather a tour? Book a 3 day eco tour that visits the top destinations on Yorke Peninsula here
2. Walk the Yorke
More than 500km of coastal scenery is available for exploration on the Yorke Peninsula. Our favourite section is from Moonta Bay south around to Point Turton. While walking a large distance might not appeal to most, all places of interest are available to visit via car. Choose a section, take a bike and a packed lunch and explore!
You’ll also find numerous bush campsites scattered along the trail. You need to book prior to visiting via this website and the sites are best in, best dressed. Most are accessible with a 2wd car, and are suitable for both tents and caravans. Always remember to leave no trace.
3. Moonta historic walk
Moonta is full of history. There are numerous walking trails around Moonta with interactive signs. The Hughes Enginehouse near the Moonta Museum is a great place to start. Wonder around the old sites and read some interesting information!
4. Scuba Dive at Zanoni Wreck
For those adventure lovers, check out the Zanoni Wreck. It is located 10nm from the Ardrossan coast and is on of the best 19th century shipwrecks that has been preserved in the South Australia coast.
It is also located in a marine park, so there are plenty of fish! Contact a dive shop near the area to arrange to visit the site. You will need a permit and in-depth local knowledge and the tides can make visibility drop.
5. 4wd the beach at Wallaroo and take a picnic
Around the Yorke Peninsula, there are many beaches that are drive-on beaches. We love the beach just north of Wallaroo, it’s usually an easy beach to drive on, but like all beaches check the tides and have a look first.
You may need to let your tyres down slightly, but this beach is usually quiet firm-packed. Other beaches around the Yorke Peninsula are much softer, so always take care and drive to the conditions.
Grab some picnic food or takeaway food from a local shop.
6. Edithburg Tidal Pool
Located at Edithburg, on the south-eastern side of the Yorke Peninsula, the tidal pool is a great place to relax in summer. Make sure to check out the local artwork and take a walk on the foreshore.
There are nearby toilets and changeroom facilities and many parking spaces.
Our tip: plan to visit mid week during the summer months. It is the least busy!
Kid-specific locations that Adults will also love!
7. Visit Moonta Bay Splash park
Open during the summer months, the splash park is a free activity that kids will love! It is fully enclosed and has many shade-sails to keep kiddies safe from the summer sun. Read about the best time to visit Yorke Peninsula here
The beach has recently got a makeover and has easy access ramps during low tide. For those who enjoy caravan parks, there is a great caravan park that backs onto the splash park and has beach front sites.
The beach is usually calm for swimming, or walk along the jetty. The cafe across the carpark is a great treat with some delicious local food.
8. Moonta Mines Sweet Shop
This is for kids and adults. Who doesn’t like a good old fashioned lolly shop! Located on Verran Terrace, Moonta, this shop has all the usual favorites along with some delicious treats not seen in the usual modern lolly stores.
It is volunteer run, so it makes it even more special to splash out and treat yourself.
9. Moonta Mines tourist railway
Departing near the Moonta Mines Museum, this tourist train takes you on a historical journey around the local mine.
You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the history of Moonta, as well as visiting interesting sites. It is fully interactive for kids of all ages, there is a hunt for animal statues to keep the kids engaged throughout the short journey.
There is a small fee, and timetables can be found on the Moonta Mines Railway website here
Yorke Peninsula for the more refined
10. Barley Stacks Wines
If you’re a wine lover, then you must plan a stop at the Barley Stacks Winery. Found near Maitland, you’ll find a winery like no other. Wines are made on site, with local grapes. Don’t forget to grab a pizza and cheese platter 7 days a week.
Credit: Barley Stacks
11. Watsacowie Brewing Company
Located in Minlaton, mid-way along the Yorke Peninsula, you’ll find a hidden gem of a location. The Watsacowie Brewing Company not only has great locally made beers, but also live music, great food and is also family friendly.
12. Bond Store, Wallaroo
Bond Store is a distillery, restaurant and microbrewery! Grab a share plate of food, order a locally-made drink and take in the atmosphere!
The menu is always changing as the dishes are made with locally sourced food.
Bond Store is located at 13 Own Terrace, Wallaroo
13. Taste the Yorke
Moonta has an abundance of great restaurants and cafes, but this is a fav! Found at 56b George Street Moonta, The Taste the Yorke cafe has a big range of locally produced dishes. Check out their menu here.
Is it worth going to Yorke Peninsula?
Yes! There is so much to see and do on the Yorke Peninsula. It is really a hidden gem, which also means it’s not as busy as other areas around South Australia. Only a short drive from Adelaide, it is possible for a day trip, but the best way to explore is over a few days.
Rather a tour? Click here to Book a 3 day eco tour that visits the top destinations on Yorke Peninsula here
Can you swim at Yorke Peninsula?
Yes! however, during winter the weather is freezing! (for my liking anyway!) In summer, the temperature means it is nice and refreshing to go for a swim. Like any beach, always be careful and closely supervise children.
Some beaches around the Moonta area are shallow and usually calm, whereas other beaches south on Yorke Peninsula have great surfing waves.
How many days do you need for the Yorke Peninsula?
Although a day trip can work, it is highly recommended to stay for at least a weekend. Ideally, a few days to explore a few locations.
The best time to visit Yorke Peninsula
Summer is a great time to make use of the beaches, although temperatures can sometimes get into the 40s. Winter is lovely as it brings a different vibe, just be sure to pack warm clothes as it can get windy.
Our Final Thoughts:
Take the time to explore different sections of the Yorke Peninsula. Although we’ve listed the top 13 things to do in Yorke Peninsula, you’ll find many more hidden gems throughout the area. Be sure to check out our other articles for more suggestions on what to visit around this beautiful part of South Australia.
If you don’t have time to get the the Yorke Peninsula, be sure to grab our free guide by clicking here.
