How to get here
Goolwa is situated on the Fleurieu Peninsula, just over an hour from Adelaide by car. The easiest way to visit this beautiful town is to drive.
Set off early in the morning to make the most of your day by the water.
Shopping
For a small town, Goolwa offers a surprising amount of shopping opportunities. The main street of town, Cadell Street, features clothes shops, arts and crafts, surf shops and more. Take a stroll and enjoy discovering pieces by local artists and when you are ready to recharge there are many welcoming coffee spots to enjoy.
Best coffee in town: Mother Duck!
River
The river is one of the main features of Goolwa. The name ‘Goolwa’ means ‘river’s elbow’ in Ngarrindjeri. Founded as a river port Goolwa’s first main industry was the transportation of goods up the river on paddle boats.
The Wharf Precinct is the perfect place to explore this history. Take a walk along the wharf, and see the historic Paddle steamer the Oscar ‘W’, which also runs river cruises on weekends and holidays.
If you fancy something to eat or drink by the river the Wharf features The Wharf Barrel Shed wine bar, a gin distillery, Hector’s on the Wharf cafe and wine tasting venues.
Coorong
The Coorong national park is a strip of water lines on one side by sandunes and islands on the other. The mouth of the Murray River is found here. This is a place os outstanding natural beauty, with a variety of fish, bird life and native plants on display.
You can take a walk along the river bank, 4 wheel drive from Goolwa Beach, hire a boat for the day, take a cruise or hire a canoe to enjoy this beautiful place.
Spirit of the Coorong offer Coorong cruises and historical tours from a comfortable speed boat. If you’d rather get active try, Canoe the Coorong for canoe hire and guided tours.
Beach
Goolwa beach is vast. With great parking facilities, public toilets and life guards, it is a safe location for families as well.
The beach cafe Bomboras serves up delicious food and drink all day in summer with great views of the coast all the way around to Victor Harbor.
During the summer you can also try or hand (or feet!) and cockling!
Whether you are looking for a relaxed day by the water, good food, adventure or all of the above – Goolwa has what you are looking for!