The 8 Friendliest Little Towns In South Australia
From the vineyard-rich land of the Barossa Valley to the sea breezes on the Fleurieu Peninsula and the charming Adelaide Hills just outside the city, to the banks of the Murray River, South Australia is an inviting state with plenty to offer. Whether you taste wine under the guidance of passionate winemakers, settle into a comfy hotel hosted by warm innkeepers, or chat with quirky makers and producers at local farmers’ markets, exciting discoveries await in the small towns found along the picturesque highways of SA.
Here are eight of the friendliest little towns in South Australia, eager to welcome travellers, weekend adventurers, and thrill-seekers alike.
Port Lincoln
This cheery coastal town sits on the southern tip of the Eyre Peninsula overlooking Boston Bay. Considered one of the most welcoming SA towns in Australia, from food and wine experiences to ocean adventures, you are sure to find pleasant locals happy to share their knowledge and passion.
Welcoming spaces like Jump Ship Brewery are all about sociable gatherings where guests can sit back and enjoy themselves. The casual but tempting food and selection of carefully brewed craft beers are enough to encourage you to stay for a while, chatting with the owners or conversing with fellow beer enthusiasts.
Experience Australia’s largest natural harbour at Lincoln National Park overlooking Boston Bay. Explore the Sleaford-Wanna dune system in an exhilarating 4WD, to take in the vast expanses of windswept sand and dunes overlooking the Southern Ocean.
Since Port Lincoln happens to be the Seafood Capital of Australia, you have to head to one of many restaurants specialising in dishes featuring fresh-caught delicacies. Sarin’s Restaurant, at the Port Lincoln Hotel, is an inviting eatery where the sumptuous menu spoils guests with succulent seafood and a well-stocked wine cellar for unmatched dining on the Bay. Do not let the gourmet menu fool you. The hotel is known for its warm country-style hospitality, combining luxury-level views with comfortable accommodation and gourmet meals with approachable, attentive servers.
Lyndoch
The Barossa is hailed as one of the greatest wine regions in the world, known for its robust reds, although its Rieslings are nothing to sneeze at. It also happens to be home to the town of Lyndoch, where wine lovers can discover several welcoming wineries and cellar doors to sample world-renowned wines.
Kies Family Wines has a bold goal to become the friendliest Cellar Door in the Barossa Valley. Guests can expect to find authentic warmth and hospitality at a winery where the slogan is "A taste of happiness." Complimentary tastings are enjoyed in a restored 1880s Chaff Mill serving as their cosy cellar door. The winery’s Monkey Nut Café is hidden among the grapevines, where satisfying meals are paired with wine flights, and sweets go wonderfully with their signature teas.
For a little taste of history, stop in at Hemera Estate's 45-hectare vineyard where original vines were planted over a century ago. A small team of friendly wine experts shares insights about the vineyard at the rustic, comfy cellar door. The Winemaker and Manager often drop by to join in the conversation, which, by the way, does not always involve wine!
End your day at the retro-chic but very comfortable Lyndoch Motel. Have a mouthwatering Roman-style pizza for dinner at their Italian restaurant, Edo Cucina. Lounge by the pool surrounded by palms, wander the motel’s private gardens, and take in the lovely views of the Barossa Ranges as the sun sets.
Victor Harbor
The fresh sea breezes of Victor Harbor embrace arrivals like a welcoming hug, and local establishments are always ready with warm smiles. Located on the Fleurieu Peninsula, the town is known for its coastal beauty, laid-back vibe, and unique experiences.
Make friends with an Alpaca at Softfoot Wildlife Park, a 600-acre property tucked away in Hindmarsh Valley. Feed the kangaroos, meet Chappy the cockatoo, join a safari led by an enthusiastic guide, and have lunch overlooking the scenic countryside.
Mix with the vendors at the Victor Harbor Beachside Markets, where the friendly vibe and ocean views are ideal for exploring the eclectic goods, from clothes to jewellery and handmade items to an endless assortment of food.
Check out the Victor Harbor Artisan Market at Railway Terrace to chat with local creatives or participate in various events and festivals. Discover the creativity that brings live music, art, and gourmet eats to the community at the vibrant meeting place.
Explore your creative side at Potter’s Oasis, a one-of-a-kind destination where you can participate in creative workshops and relax in calming spaces designed to inspire. The owners and artists offer a welcoming space where everyone feels free to express themselves through art. Weekend retreats include hands-on classes, nature walks, and lovely accommodation with harbour views.
Angaston
Perched high up in the Barossa Valley sits the peaceful town of Angaston. Its distinct high-end feel, with its wealth of charming historic buildings, gourmet shops, and eateries, is not short on warm welcomes. Do not let the fancy façades fool you. This is a friendly town, make no mistake, with fun finds like the Barossa Valley Cheese Company. The cheese cellar offers artisanal cheese samples in the same space where they are crafted.
You will want some wine to go with that cheese. Stop in at Lambert Estate’s cellar door to take in the views of the valley and sample first-class wines served by informative wine educators. Browse the art collection and stay for lunch to sample their à la carte Peruvian-inspired dishes. Take a cart tour of the vineyard with an animated guide who will share inside stories about the estate’s history as one of many fun-loving experiences guests are invited to join.
Catch a kitchen demonstration at the Barossa Farmers' Market and then stock up on the ingredients at the local stallholders. Spend your Saturday morning chatting with local food producers, and sample, sample, sample the finest foods the valley has to offer.
Visit a heritage commercial orchard at Gully Gardens Barossa for a unique agritourism experience. In operation for over 120 years, the farm shop sells seasonal fresh produce and dried-fruit confectionery treats. The owners love sharing their story with visitors to help people reconnect with the land.
Tanunda
This Barossa Valley town is surrounded by lovely vineyards where wine lovers can discover sensational tasting experiences at the friendly cellar doors. Rockford’s cellar door is perhaps the most charming vineyard you will visit in the area. The picture of the redbrick courtyard surrounded by a cluster of rustic heritage buildings could not be more inviting. The Tanunda cellar door is staffed by warm hosts who share their passion for the winery's select wine collection.
There is more to the Barossa than wine. Seppeltsfield Road Distillers is owned by a self-proclaimed gin-loving duo who offer samples of their unique selection of gins. Named after the stunning palm-lined road leading to their Tanunda distillery, the tasting room invites guests to linger over flights, bites, and a changing menu of seasonal gin concoctions.
Treat yourself to lunch at Harvest Kitchen overlooking the valley and Jacob’s Creek vineyards. Spend an afternoon sampling Mediterranean- and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes paired with a selection of Barossa Valley wines.
Book a stay at the Château Tanunda, where exclusive guesthouses perfect for friend group getaways sit nestled in the expansive estate grounds. The 1890 Château is the site of the first vineyard in the valley. The Geber family carries on the winemaking tradition, sharing the fruits of their labour with their Château guests.
Goolwa
Goolwa sits where the Murray River feeds into the Southern Ocean on the Fleurieu Peninsula. The Goolwa Wharf Precinct is at the heart of the town, where a mix of local eateries, a gathering of vendors at the Goolwa Rotary Market, and ongoing events bring the town and visitors together in one inviting place.
The Market is held two Sundays a month with over 80 stalls manned by friendly vendors selling everything from fresh produce and gourmet treats to boutique wines and handmade crafts. The lovely park, live entertainment, and river views create a one-of-a-kind community experience where everyone and their dog are welcome.
The Fleurieu Distillery offers samples of its award-winning single malts in a former railway goods shed that serves as their distillery and an inviting cellar door. The casual atmosphere and river views at Bombora on the River are made for savouring the moment. Whether you start your day with their tempting breakfast or find a spot to relax for lunch after a morning of exploring, the friendly atmosphere and exceptionally fresh seafood-heavy menu will not disappoint.
Stirling
If you love food, Stirling is sure to please your palate. A green, calm little town in the Adelaide Hills, Stirling welcomes the city-weary to spend some time conversing with friendly locals and fellow visitors escaping the hectic life of Adelaide. Just a short drive from the city, there is no need for an overnight stay.
The chocolatiers at Red Cocoa treat guests to a chocolate extravaganza in a cosy space made for sweet discoveries. The artisans spoil you with indulgent flavours that explore the complexities of chocolate, from waffles to warm beverages and rich cakes to elegant truffles. If you are overwhelmed by choices, a chocolate pairing with a hot chocolate or coffee and a selection of truffles will ease you into your chocolate fantasy.
Discover the spirit of Stirling at the Market, where gardeners, foodies, self-pamperers, and art lovers alike will find something designed to delight and indulge. From natural cosmetics and soaps to gourmet biscuits and pottery to antiques, the vendors are ready with a friendly greeting and an animated discussion about their wares.
Stop in at the Organic Market to browse exciting foodie finds and goodies or have lunch at the café. The creative menu is sure to convince even the most dedicated carnivore that vegetarian food is anything but boring.
Strathalbyn
Tucked away at the edge of the Adelaide Hills on the River Angas, Strathalbyn offers a rare combination of picturesque surroundings. As the gateway to the Fleurieu Peninsula, it is a sociable town hosting popular events like the Antiques & Vintage Fair and the famous Duck Race.
Antique lovers and collectors will find a veritable wonderland of discoveries at the Antique Bazaar of Strathalbyn. The knowledgeable staff are always up for a chat or ready to lend a hand, dragging out a piece of furniture so you can get a better look. A mix of furnishings, art, and retro throwbacks is found among the rugs and modern art objects. History buffs might get lucky sorting through the Militaria.
Discover the thrill of the races at Strathalbyn Racing Club, where you can feel the anticipation grow as the horses reach the final stretch. Join in the fun on Race Days or at one of their many events in a unique venue set against pastoral hills.
Enjoy a coffee and treat at The Wistow On High, where the ongoing chatter among the guests and counter staff creates a cheery atmosphere sure to put a smile on your face. Take advantage of the takeout service and grab lunch for a riverside picnic.
Take to the road to discover the warm hospitality of the eight friendliest little towns in South Australia. Whether you are planning a wine tour of the Barossa Valley, have a hankering for fresh seafood along the coast, or are looking for unique finds at open-air markets, South Australia’s charming towns cannot wait to meet you!
