8 Best South Australia Towns For Retirees
South Australia is an ideal destination for those seeking to enjoy their golden years. Australia's fourth-largest state features a landscape of flat, dusty plains, lush agricultural communities, and several points of interest, including Mount Woodroffe. The state’s generally low population makes it an ideal place to live life at a slower pace, while enjoying the best the country has to offer. Meanwhile, the southernmost part of the state is lined with golden beaches along the Great Australian Bight/Southern Ocean. South Australia offers a wealth of charming, welcoming towns—each one a potential haven for an ideal retirement. Which would you choose?
Yankalilla
The agricultural town of Yankalilla dates back to 1842. Since then, the area hasn't changed all that much. The people who make up the town's current population of just 800 are still friendly and welcoming; the weather remains beautiful, and the farmland remains fertile. Its cozy size and 73-kilometer distance to the SA's capital city of Adelaide make Yankalilla an ideal place to retire.
The Yankalilla & District Society is a great way for residents of all ages to learn about their new home. A great way to enjoy the area's weather and scenery is to take a walk or jog along the Yankalila Heritage Walk. The trail also serves as a self-guided tour, featuring the 160-year-old and still-in-use Christ Church. For a different view of the area, pay a visit to the Allusions Farmstay and Vineyard. Enjoy a glass of locally grown wine and a succulent, farm-to-table meal while taking in views of Southern Australia's awe-inspiring, rugged landscape. For any medical needs that may come up, the Southern Fleurieu Family Practice has got you covered.
Wallaroo
The town of Wallaroo offers residents the opportunity to live life like they're on vacation all year round. With its pristine beaches like Sailing Beach, along with the inviting blue water and spectacular weather, you'll wish you had moved here sooner! The Wallaroo Heritage and Nautical Museum is a spectacular way to learn about the area's history, especially since the building itself is a part of the town's history, as it began its life as the town's post office in 1865. Coopers Alehouse has an impressive menu offering pub grub and beer in a relaxed space, which opens onto a waterfront terrace. Best of all, a meal there won't break the bank thanks to the daily seniors' special. The Wallaroo Community Sports Club is a great way to stay in shape, offering a variety of activities such as lawn bowling, golf, sailing, and more.
Healthcare in town is provided by the Wallaroo Hospital & Health Services. The Adelaide Airport is approximately two hours away, making for a scenic and beautiful drive. For those who don't fancy driving the entire way, a ferry service operates between Lucky Bay on the Eyre Peninsula and Wallaroo. The ferry ride takes about two and a half hours, but it also offers room to park your car, allowing you to enjoy the view in a different way.
Mount Barker
About a half-hour drive from the state's capital city of Adelaide sits Mount Barker. The town's roughly 21,000 residents enjoy beautiful weather year-round with temperatures ranging from 68°F (20.0°C) to 46°F (8.0°C). The SteamRanger Heritage Railway runs from Adelaide to Mount Barker 200 days per year. The unique attraction lets riders experience a ride on various antique steam-powered locomotives. A trek to the Mount Barker Summit provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. Petrolheads with a taste for something rare will love taking a stroll through the Classic Motor Studio showroom. The Studio features a rotating stock of vintage cars for sale that range from classic American muscle cars to more modern classics with signature Italian style. If you aren't looking to buy, it is still a great chance to see a collection of amazing cars, including some of Australia's iconic Ford Falcons. The Aston Hills Golf Club is a great place to spend the afternoon with 18 holes and gourmet-quality food. The welcoming little community of Mount Barker is also home to the Mount Barker Medical Clinic for injuries or illnesses that may come up.
Strathalbyn
Nestled along the edge of the River Angas sits the idyllic town of Strathalbyn. The Strathalbyn District Museum & Heritage Centre, housed in the town's former police station, offers a chance to step into the past and learn about the town’s history, which dates back to 1958. The Strathalbyn and District Health Service is prepared for any challenges that may arise. A great way to stay healthy while in town is to take a walk along the historic main street that showcases over 30 historic buildings in classic Edwardian Baroque architecture. This charming town has a population of about 6,500 who enjoy a laid-back and slower way of life. For those who get the occasional itch for the big city, Adelaide is only a 37-mile (60 km) drive away. Before leaving town to visit any friends or family in the big city, make sure to stop by the town's iconic Antiques Bazaar of Strathalbyn to buy some unique gifts for them or yourself.
Hahndorf
Hahndorf, Australia, may feel like a slice of Germany that’s in SA, but it's every bit Australian. Founded in 1839 by German settlers, the town has retained much of its Bavarian beginnings. All one has to do is look at St. Paul's Lutheran Church for an example of the stunning German architecture. Incidentally, the church is the oldest Lutheran church in all of Australia. It remains in use to this day, despite being as old as the town in which it sits. For those strawberry lovers looking for a chance to experience the sweet joys of nature, the Beerenberg Farm will be your jam! Here, visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the historic farm, pick strawberries, and purchase some of the farm's delicious jam. The town's relaxed way of life makes this an ideal destination to live. Foodies will love visiting the Sidewood Estate restaurant. The eatery features mouth-watering farm-to-table food paired with the wine from the estate vineyard. The unique town is just a quick 30-minute drive from Adelaide, and the Handorf Medical Centre takes care of its medical needs.
Victor Harbor
The seaside town of Victor Harbor in Southern Australia is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big city life. The area has long been renowned for its exceptional fishing opportunities. Thankfully, restaurants like The Larder Kitchen can take full advantage of the abundance of sea life available to them. But the variety doesn't stop there. Victor Harbor boasts some of the area's best shopping experiences at The Victor Harbor Markets, featuring artisan, farmers', and beachside markets at various times throughout the year.
Victor Harbor is just 51 miles (81 km) south of South Australia's capital city of Adelaide and its airport. The town's location offers the additional benefit of allowing people to witness a life-changing event. Every year, between June and September, whales pass by the area on their migration route. As a result, the various pods of some of Earth's largest mammals are visible from Encounter Bay, offering a closer look at these amazing creatures aboard a Big Duck Tour boat during a sightseeing tour. Victor Harbor is also home to the Harbor Village, a pet-friendly, independent living retirement community.
Goolwa
The town of Goolwa is a hidden gem that's becoming more popular by the day. Established in 1853, the town's name translates to "elbow" in the Ngarrindjeri language. History lovers will delight in learning about the town's fascinating history. Pay a visit to The National Trust of South Australia, Goolwa Branch. The museum began its life as a blacksmith shop and now features exhibits that showcase the town's amazing past. Interestingly, the town is also home to a very unique event. Every odd-numbered year, the South Australian Wooden Boat Festival takes place. The festival celebrates the area's iconic riverboating history. Take a stroll along the sandy shores of Goolwa Beach. Perfect for taking a dip in the water or just taking the rays and maybe walking to the historic Goolwa Wharf. The town is just 53 miles (83 km) from Adelaide. The Goolwa Medical Center, located in town, is one of the town's primary sources for medical care.
Mclaren Vale
About 21 miles (33 km) south of the city of Adelaide, you will find the beating heart of the nation's wine country. All it takes is one look at the rolling emerald colored hills that make up the town of McLaren Vale to fall in love with the area. Pay a visit to any of the town's numerous wineries, such as Australia's oldest winery, The Hugh Hamilton Winery, where you can learn a bit about the delicate wine-making process on a vineyard that has been family-owned and operated for 180 years. McLaren Vale is also an excellent spot for those who still love an active lifestyle. Thanks to the area's always wonderful weather, there is rarely a bad time to walk, bike, or ride along one of the area's many trails, like The Shiraz Trail. For a truly unique experience, stop by the Alternate Realities Museum. The area's overall laidback atmosphere makes for a great place to spend one's golden years. The area is home to several medical clinics, including the McLaren Vale Family Practice.
Why South Australia Could Be Your Perfect Retirement Destination
South Australia is home to an almost endless array of towns that would make for a perfect spot to retire. The area's usually warm climate lends itself to a relaxing lifestyle. Perhaps one of the best things about the state, much like the country as a whole, is that there is something to suit everyone's needs. For those who prefer to live along the water or those who live closer to farmland, there are plenty of options available. No matter where one chooses to live in South Australia, they will still have access to great healthcare, wonderful neighbors, and amazing goods. Just don't forget the sunscreen!
