Lie down on the sand, visit a penguin colony and go on scenic coastal walks and bike rides at this seaside getaway.
Travel to the oceanfront Victor Harbor, a popular destination with beaches, watersports, wildlife and coastal scenery. Spot whales from land or sea, learn about the town's whaling history and hike around a rocky island.
Victor Harbor is small enough to walk around, with many attractions close to each other. Head toward the town's shoreline for the Warland Reserve, home to the South Australian Whale Centre. Inside, three floors of exhibits and artifacts cover the natural history of whales and the area’s whaling past. After your tour, enjoy a picnic or barbecue in the reserve and walk to the Soldiers' Memorial Garden with its rows of Norfolk Island pine trees.
Nearby is a short wooden causeway that connects to Granite Island. Walk across it or ride the horse-drawn tram, a service that has been in operation since 1894. On the island, amble along the loop trail encircling the small rocky outcrop and see the colony of little penguins, also known as fairy penguins. For whales, dolphins and other wildlife, embark on a boat tour of the coastline and offshore islands. Find good land-based whale-watching from the town, especially between June and October when southern right whales visit local waters.
Take advantage of the town's seaside setting with relaxation on a beach. Swim at Yilki Beach and try surfing and surf fishing at Waitpinga Beach and Parson's Beach. Kayak or canoe around the reefs and islands of Encounter Bay and zip across the water on a Jet Ski.
Explore Victor Harbor's beautiful surroundings on long coastal walks. Hike or cycle along the Encounter Bikeway. This on-road and off-road route stretches along the coast for about 19 miles (30 kilometers). At night, dine out in local restaurants, which include casual and fine dining options.
Victor Harbor is about a 1-hour drive south of Adelaide. Alternatively, travel by bus or coach and get around on bike, foot, taxi or rental car. Stay for the wildlife, beaches and coastal scenery.
Top hotels in Victor Harbor
Estimated price for 1 night / 2 adults
McCracken Country Club
3.5 out of 5
Mccracken Drive, McCracken, SA
NZ$123
per night
Feb 28 - Feb 29
Situated near the beach, this romantic hotel is within a 5-minute walk of McCracken Golf Course and Victor Harbor Convention Centre. Encounter Bay and Hindmarsh ...…Situated near the beach, this romantic hotel is within a 5-minute walk of McCracken Golf Course and Victor Harbor Convention Centre. Encounter Bay and Hindmarsh ...WWW…
4.5/5Wonderful! (1,166 reviews)
"Best shower we have found staff friendly and helpful"…""Best shower we have found staff friendly and helpful"WWW…"
With direct access to the beach, this Victor Harbor hotel is within a 5-minute walk of Encounter Bay, Soldier Memorial Gardens and Warland Reserve. Granite Island ...…With direct access to the beach, this Victor Harbor hotel is within a 5-minute walk of Encounter Bay, Soldier Memorial Gardens and Warland Reserve. Granite Island ...WWW…
4.2/5Excellent! (820 reviews)
"Time warp into the old style, Australian decor, seaside lodgings. Not necessarily a negative thing. The balcony rooms were exposed to a high level of traffic noise. The light was left on in the balcony area all night. Minor things really. Very comfy bed. The share bathrooms have had the renovation ..."…""Time warp into the old style, Australian decor, seaside lodgings. Not necessarily a negative thing. The balcony rooms were exposed to a high level of traffic noise. The light was left on in the balcony area all night. Minor things really. Very comfy bed. The share bathrooms have had the renovation ..."WWW…"
Situated near the beach, this apartment building is within a 10-minute walk of Encounter Bay and Victor Harbor Heritage Trail: Petrel Cove Trailhead. The Bluff ...…Situated near the beach, this apartment building is within a 10-minute walk of Encounter Bay and Victor Harbor Heritage Trail: Petrel Cove Trailhead. The Bluff ...WWW…
4.4/5Excellent! (512 reviews)
"Views are great reception staff very friendly and maintenance personal if you need them very quick to respond and helpful"…""Views are great reception staff very friendly and maintenance personal if you need them very quick to respond and helpful"WWW…"
Glimpse incredible marine life moments from Victor Harbor during a wildlife-watching bonanza that takes you to Seal Rock in beautiful Encounter Bay. Carry your camera along and hope to catch sight of the Long Nosed Fur Seals, Australian sea lions, and countless seabirds during your memorable cruise.
Victor Harbor with McLaren Vale Tour from Adelaide
NZ$121
Discover Victor Harbor, the quaint wine-making region and sleepy coastal town in South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula. Spend a full day exploring the seaside resort and the historic paddle-steamer port of Goolwa, where Australia’s longest river meets the sea.
Coorong National Park & Murray River Cruise with Lunch
NZ$146
Depart the Goolwa Wharf heading downstream passing through a lock in the Goolwa Barrage whilst viewing fur seals which inhabit this area, pass from fresh to salt water and into the Coorong National Park.
A unique opportunity to meet our friendly alpacas on the picturesque Softfoot farm. Upon arrival, your included home made morning tea awaits. Meet and feed our friendly, world class alpacas.
This breathtaking tour departs from the Granite Island causeway past many offshore islands and spectacular cliffs. See seals, sea lions and dolphins along the way. Cruising through the Encounter Marine Park where we also view whales during the winter months when they migrate from Antarctica to the warm waters of Encounter Bay.
Itinerary This is a typical itinerary for this product Stop At: Victor Harbor Town Centre Heritage Trail, Victor Harbor, South Australia 5211 Australia See many of the old buildings and history of Victor Harbor. Followed by a return trip on the Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tram.
