Couple swimming at Vivonne Bay in Kangaroo Island

Credit: As We Wander

Want to explore beyond Adelaide without travelling too far? With so many incredible destinations just a short distance away, your group trip is guaranteed to become an unforgettable adventure.

While Adelaide is famous for its city charm, cultural sites and thriving food scene, no group trip is complete without an adventure beyond the city limits.

The good news? You don’t have to travel far to experience some of South Australia’s most beautiful landscapes, flavours and attractions. Within just a couple of hours’ drive from Adelaide, you’ll find world-class wine regions, beautiful coastlines, incredible wildlife enoucnters, and charming towns that are perfect for a quick day trip.

Whether you’re on a weekend excursion with your family and are looking for an adventure in nature or on a getaway with your friends and want to explore Adelaide’s famous wine regions, there’s somewhere for you. Here’s where to go and what to know to plan your perfect group escape from Adelaide.

1. Clare Valley

Aerial view of vineyards and Skillogalee Estate Cellar Door in Sevenhill in Clare Valley

Credit: Skillogalee Estate

Best for

Wine lovers, foodies, couples, cyclists

Location

Clare Valley, Clare SA 5453 – Google Maps

Distance from Adelaide

Approx 1 hour 50 minutes (142km)

Clare Valley is one of Australia's oldest wine regions – and one of its most low-key ones! Famous for its award-winning Rieslings and relaxed country charm, it boasts more than 40 cellar doors, picturesque vineyard scenery and plenty of tasty local produce to sample – perfect for a laidback group getaway. And if you’re not into wine, that’s not a problem! Hire some bikes and cycle along the famous Riesling Trail, explore the historic towns of Mintaro and Sevenhill, or settle in for a long, leisurely lunch.

Getting there: Hire a car to drive your crew, or book a tour. Buses are available, however it is typically a 2.5 hour journey.  

 

2. Kangaroo Island

People swimming in the calm waters of Stokes Bay in Kangaroo island

Credit: South Australian Tourism Commission

Best for

Nature lovers, swimmers and snorkellers, wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers

Location

Kangaroo Island, SA – Google Maps

Distance from Adelaide

Approx. 90-minute drive to Cape Jervis (106km), then a 45-minute ferry crossing

Kangaroo Island is famously one of Australia’s most spectacular nature destinations and a must-visit for outdoor adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts. Over a third of this Australian island is protected as nature reserves, home to iconic Australian wildlife including koalas, wallabies, echidnas, penguins, and migrating southern right whales. Spend your days exploring pristine beaches, hiking rugged bushland, marvelling at Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, or simply soaking up the breathtaking coastal views.

Getting there: Hire a car to drive from Adelaide to Cape Jarvis, then board the ferry to Penneshaw. Alternatively, book a full-day Kangaroo Island tour with transfers, meals, and stops at major highlights included.

 

3. Victor Harbor

Aerial view of boats docked at the hrbour in the Fleurueu Peninsula

Credit: Tourism Australia / South Australian Tourism Commission

Best for

Beach lovers, families, wine lovers, whale watchers

Location

Victor Harbor, Fleurieu Peninsula, SA 5211 – Google Maps

Distance from Adelaide

Approx. 75-minute drive (84km)

Located within the Fleurieu Peninsula, Victor Harbour is a charming seaside town on the south coast, just an hour’s drive from Adelaide. Whether you're crossing the historic causeway to Granite Island by horse-drawn tram to spot Little Penguins, soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, or joining a seasonal whale watching cruise, Victor Harbor has something for every kind of traveller. With over 100 cellar doors dotted throughout the surrounding region, it’s also a top pick for wine lovers. Give yourself a few days — there’s plenty to explore. 

Getting there: Easily accessible by car from Adelaide or join a guided day tour for a relaxed way to reach the peninsula.

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4. Murray River, Lakes and Coorong

Aerial view of Murray River and surrounds

Credit: Murray River Trails

Best for

Nature lovers, campers, families, adventure seekers

Location

Murray Bridge, SA 5253 – Google Maps

Distance from Adelaide

A Starts from approx. 1-hour drive (75km)

From wilderness adventures to ultimate relaxation, the Murray River, Lakes and Coorong region has it all – and it starts just one hour from Adelaide. Hire a houseboat on the mighty Murray River, try your hand at windsurfing or skydiving, or simply spend an afternoon paddling and wildlife-spotting through the quiet wetlands. To truly get away from it all, pitch a tent in Coorong National Park. This beautiful area is steeped in both natural beauty and cultural heritage, with the vast Coorong lagoon and its epic sand dunes offering a truly remote escape. Add in options like kayaking, birdwatching, windsurfing, or even skydiving, and your group getaway can be as laid-back or as action-packed as you like. 

Getting there: Hire a car and drive from Adelaide towards Murray Bridge. From there, you can easily explore the river towns, national parks, and coastal areas. Guided tours and houseboat rentals are also available. Discover and book experiences in the Murray River, Lakes and Coorong region..  

 

5. Barossa Valley

View of the landscape of the Barossa Valley, near Adelaide

Credit: South Australian Tourism Commission

Best for

Wine lovers, foodies, girls’ trip, couples

Location

Barossa Valley, Tanunda SA 5352 – Google Maps

Distance from Adelaide

Approx. 1 hour drive (75km)

Just 60 kilometres northeast of Adelaide, the Barossa Valley is one of Australia's most famed wine regions. Sample rich reds from some of the world’s oldest Shiraz vines as you explore your pick of over 150 Barossa Valley wineries. Although the Barossa is best known for its red wine, don't forget to try the other tipples on offer, as well as its gourmet produce the significant amount of stellar gourmet produce – from hand-crafted cheeses and smoked meats to freshly baked pastries.

Getting there: Hire a car t o drive from central Adelaide, or book a Barossa Valley wine tour for a relaxed, door-to-door tasting experience without needing a designated driver.

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