The best beaches in Adelaide

Where: Henley Beach, Adelaide

By day, white and lemon-yellow striped umbrellas line Henley Beach's waterfront Ocean Bar and Kitchen. Come nighttime, fairy lights illuminate the top of Henley Square. Whether you’re stopping off for a nibble at the prime possie eateries, or putting out a towel on the endless stretch of sand, you’re sure to take a good couple of deep breaths and relax at Henley Beach.

Good for: Sipping on an ice-cold drink at one of the many waterfront bars.

How far from the city? 12 kilometres (20-minute drive)

Is the beach patrolled? From October to April, on weekends and public holidays.

Are dogs allowed? Yes, but must be on a lead between 10am and 8pm during daylight saving time.

Where: Semaphore, Adelaide 

As far as idyllic seaside towns go, Semaphore has it pretty nailed. Feel like time has stopped, not only metaphorically when you’re lapping up the serenity of the calm water and white sand, but quite literally with the vintage carousel and old-school steam train found right on the waterfront. With so much to do, it’s easy to entertain anyone, of any age here. 

Good for: Dolphin and whale spotting. Head right on out to the end of the massive long jetty.

How far from the city? 17.3 kilometres (30-minute drive)

Is the beach patrolled? From October to April, on weekends and public holidays.

Are dogs allowed? Yes, but must be on a lead between 10am and 8pm during daylight saving time.

Where: West Beach, Adelaide

Wedged between the popular beaches of Henley and Glenelg, this family-friendly spot has lent its name to the entire suburb. The calm, sheltered waters are ideal for swimming, and you’ll find Australia’s largest aerial adventure course just metres from the sand. For some coastal relaxation, you can even book a night at Discovery Parks – West Beach, which is South Australia’s largest holiday park, stretching 1.2 kilometres along the shoreline.

Good for: Waterfront adventures, stress-free swimming and overnight stays.

How far from the city? 14 kilometres (20-minute drive)

Is the beach patrolled? From October to April, on weekends and public holidays.

Are dogs allowed? Yes, but must be on a lead between 10am and 8pm during daylight saving time.

Where: Glenelg, Adelaide

Just because something is known by all, doesn't always mean it should be overlooked. Adelaide's most famous beach, Glenelg, manages to nail being both a genuinely beautiful natural place and a buzzy, metropolitan hotspot. Unlike the other beaches on this list, Glenelg is a 20-minute tram ride from the city centre and is fringed by amazing restaurants.

Good for: Catching the sunset either with a gelato cone (or cocktail) in hand, or by jumping on the ferris wheel for maximum views.

How far from the city? 11 kilometres (25-minute drive)

Is the beach patrolled? From October to April, on weekends and public holidays.

Are dogs allowed? Yes, but must be on a lead between 10am and 8pm.

Where: Port Noarlunga, Greater Adelaide

Besides the fact that the red sandstone cliff edges and jetty frame what is a gorgeous beach for suntanning and bathing, Port Noarlunga’s Encounter Marine Park is home to such diverse marine life that it’s one of the best diving spots in South Australia. 

Good for: Diving. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there is much to be explored in the Port Noarlunga Reef and on the self-guided aquatic trail.

How far from the city? 33 kilometres (45-minute drive)

Is the beach patrolled? From November to March

Are dogs allowed? Yes, but must be on a lead between 10am and 8pm during daylight saving time.

Where: Brighton, Adelaide

This perfect little spot is a family favourite with its calm waters and picturesque jetty. Just a little further down than Glenelg, it tends to attract fewer crowds. Come February, Brighton Beach plays host to a massive open water swim that turns the town into a big party. The festival includes live music in the streets, fashion parades, a surf boat carnival and a sculpture event. 

Good for: Attending South Australia’s largest open water swim at the Brighton Jetty Classic.

How far from the city? 15.4 kilometres (30-minute drive)

Is the beach patrolled? From October to April, on weekends and public holidays.

Are dogs allowed? Yes, between Bay St and Sandown St.

Where: Maslin Beach, Adelaide

If you venture 40 minutes out from Adelaide’s CBD, you’ll find the prettiest little picnic spot perched right on top of Maslin Beach’s cliffs. Down below, there’s plenty for divers and snorkelers to see and do, including some awesome shipwrecks that foster a thriving marine ecosystem. Fun fact: it was also Australia’s first legal nude beach. 

Good for: Baring it all. Part of Maslin Beach is in fact a nudist beach, so bikinis are optional.

How far from the city? 41.2 kilometres (45-minute drive)

Is the beach patrolled? From November to April, on weekends and public holidays.

Are dogs allowed? Yes, on the northern end of Maslin Beach.

Where: Largs Bay, Adelaide

Largs Bay ticks just about every box on the ideal South Australian beachside town list. Gorgeous jetty? Check. Historic pub overlooking the water? Check. Beachside markets? Check. Eateries, walking paths and playgrounds all on the water’s edge? Check check check. The Largs Bay foreshore is a wonderful area to sit and relax, whether bathing in the water or watching the sunset on the lawn. 

Good for: Fishing along the jetty.

How far from the city? 23 kilometres (30-minute drive)

Is the beach patrolled? Check before visiting

Are dogs allowed? Yes, but must be on-leash within designated areas around the jetty.

Where: Port Noarlunga South, Adelaide

Southport Beach is part of Port Noarlunga, where the Onkaparinga River meets the sea. The stairway leading down to the meeting of waterways is a sight to behold, and the subject of many Instagram snaps. The beach is one of the cleanest spots to swim in the country, and despite being a great family spot, it doesn’t get too busy either. 

Good for: Soaking up the calm via a kayak or stand-up paddle board ride.

How far from the city? 33 kilometres (45-minute drive)

Is the beach patrolled? Check before visiting

Are dogs allowed? Yes, but must be on a lead between 10am and 8pm during daylight saving time.

Where: Moana, Greater Adelaide

The long stretch of sand at Moana Beach is ridiculously flat, making it perfectly accessible by car. You can park in the lots that lead down to the beach or pay a small fee to set up your base right on the water’s edge. You’ll see plenty of people riding e-bikes along the water or playing beach cricket with all the space, and the waves are great for some leisurely boogie boarding. 

Good for: Four-wheel drive adventuring with a front row seat right on the sand for your vehicle.

How far from the city? 38.5 kilometres (45-minute drive)

Is the beach patrolled? From November to March

Are dogs allowed? Yes, but must be on a lead between 10am and 8pm during daylight saving time.

Where: Seacliff, Adelaide

Seacliff Beach is another hidden gem where you’re likely to find more locals than tourists soaking up the salty air. It’s a great spot for all aquatic activities from swimming and surfing to snorkelling and fishing. When you’ve had enough fun burning off steam in the water or along the walking tracks, you can head to the Seacliff Beach Hotel for some classic pub grub. 

Good for: Walking or riding along the esplanade like a local.

How far from the city? 16.7 kilometres (30-minute drive)

Is the beach patrolled? From October to April, on weekends and public holidays.

Are dogs allowed? Yes, but must be on a lead between 10am and 8pm during daylight saving time.