Visitors can experience the natural wonders of the deep, explore the world heritage listed railway building, and gain further knowledge about Victor Harbor and South Australia’s marine treasures. The centre provides whale sighting information, education and research support services through a range of mediums. The centre brings together a unique collection of historic treasures, marine, cultural, and aboriginal heritage to deliver an inspiring and enjoyable experience for every visitor.

We love the Dig Pit where kids can dig for fossils!

TICKETS: ´ˇ¶Ů±«ł˘°ŐĚý$5.00 | CHILD & CONCESSION $4 | FAMILY (2 adults + 2 children) $15
OPEN: 7 Days 10am – 4:pm

2 Railway Terrace, Victor Harbor

The first arrivals in Encounter Bay are usually expected in mid-May, and are eagerly awaited by whale watchers who hope to catch a glimpse of the huge beasts from atop the cliffs, beaches and headlands of the area’s stunning coastline.

Thousands of visitors flock to the seaside resort town of Victor Harbor, keeping staff at the SA Whale Centre’s Information Booth very busy fielding their enquiries. In some years, the whales have attracted up to 400,000 people to the area over the winter months.

The SA Whale Centre has an online giving visitors details of when and where the whales are before they get to the area and the best places to sight them. They also have some great tips for where to spot whales, how to identify them and what the different whale behaviours mean.

In 2025 the SA Whale Centre has also released its official whale sighting map, beautifully designed by the fabulous South Australian artist Pip Kruger. Learn how to spot the difference between these gentle giants, plus discover the best vantage points to catch a glimpse — whether you’re a seasoned whale watcher or a first-timer with binoculars in hand.

Grab your free map at the Victor Harbor Visitor Centre or the SA Whale Centre, and start planning your winter whale adventures now!

For example, did you know that a whale breaches for a number of reasons which can be to communicate, dislodge parasites, get a higher view, drive off predators or just play. Humpback whales can actually clear their entire body out of the water! Amazing to see!

One of our KiA families lives down in Victor Harbor and Matty has shared his favourite spots to spot whales below.

The Bluff Encounter Bay

The Bluff at Encounter Bay gives you one of the best vantage points for whale watching. The walk to the top isn’t too strenous and can be easily done by families. At the top you get a 360 degree view over the whole bay which is perfect to spot the migrating Southern Right Whales. Pack your binoculars and walking shoes and if you are lucky you might get to see a Humpback whale as well. No toilets here, but there are cafes on the esplanade just before you reach The Bluff car park.

Nakurami Kondoli (whale lookout) Encounter Bay

This look out is located at the end of Kings Beach Road in Encounter Bay. It’s a newly built platform and has a walking trail back towards the bluff. To the right of the platform is part of the Heysen trail, which takes you to Kings Head which has some stunning cliff views. This one is a great place to stop for some whale watching on the family walk.

Freeman Lookout Port Elliot

Freemans Lookout is definitely one of our favourite spots for whale watching, not only are there frequent sightings the lookout itself has seats, a telescope and information boards. There are also cafes not too far away in Port Elliot so perfect for that before or after whale watching coffee.

Hayward Court McCracken

One of our favourite spots to whale watch is on Hayward Court in McCracken. This spot is stunning and overlooks the Bay in Victor and Olivers Reef (which is one of our favourite spots for rockpools). We also love this spot as the whales are known for coming in close here which makes for some amazing photos.

The SteamRanger passes between the grassed area and the beach so not only is it a great spot for the whales, it’s also awesome for watching the trains. You do need to cross the train tracks to get down to the beach though so kids need to be supervised.

Petrel Cove Encounter Bay

Petrel Cove is one of the most popular hot spots for whale watching in the Victor Harbor region. Not only is this spot great for whale watching, it’s also the start of the encounter bikeway and part of the Victor Harbor Heritage Trail which is a family friendly 1.7km walk from Petrel Cove to Kings Beach Road.

Granite Island

Granite Island is also a great spot to whale watch. You’ll find whale information boards and some of the best unobstructed views across the water.

S.A Whale Centre, Victor Harbor

And of course no whale watching adventure is complete without a trip to the S.A Whale Centre. Visitors can experience the natural wonders of the deep, explore the world heritage listed railway building, and gain further knowledge about Victor Harbor and South Australia’s marine treasures. The centre provides whale sighting information, education and research support services through a range of mediums and brings together a unique collection of historic treasures, marine, cultural, and aboriginal heritage to deliver an inspiring and enjoyable experience for every visitor.

click here to find out more

Information Booth, and Whale Information Hotline on 1900 WHALES or 1900 942 537 all offer the latest updates on sightings in Encounter Bay and across the state. Whale watchers can also collect a free Whale Information Booklet from the Centre during the season, which includes a detailed map of Encounter Bay to help locate the whales quickly.

Or if you’re after something up close and personal check out who offer a 90-minute Southern Ocean Adventure Tour that departs from the Granite Island Causeway.

Trains operate on up to 140 days a year and are manned by volunteers from the Australian Railway Historical Society, who are also responsible for maintenance of the rail line and the heritage locomotives and carriages.

The most popular services are…..

The Cockle Train

Commences its run each day at Goolwa station, in the historic Wharf Precinct alongside the River Murray. After crossing the main Goolwa to Victor road the line heads off across the plains to Middleton, picking up or dropping off passengers on request, and then to Port Elliot where it reaches the Encounter Bay coast. The station here is operated by the local National Trust and features a small historical museum.

After leaving Port Elliot the train climbs to the top of the coastal cliffs and passengers then experiemce some of the most picturesque coastal scenery on the Fleurieu Peninsula, with nothing separating you from the beach below and a perfect view of the Southern Ocean – in winter the home of Southern Right Whale

After a 30 minute journey the train edges into Victor Harbor station, right in the centre of the town and surrounded with its iconic pine trees. Here, the locomotive is detached from the carriages and turned on our specially retained 30m long electric turntable before rejoining the carriages for the return journey to Goolwa.

The number of trains operated varies through the year. The Cockle train does not have reserved seats, passengers can buy tickets at any of our stations for one-way journeys in either direction along the line or for a bargain priced round trip. Trains wait for about 30 minutes at both Goolwa and Victor and roundtrip passengers can extend this period by returning on a later train.

For more information, current ticket prices and The Cockle Train Timetable visit

The Highlander

A short journey from Mt Barker to Strathalbyn and return on either the hertigage steam or diesel locomotive, with each leg taking about one hour, grab this fantastic trip most Sundays. The journey commences from Mount Barker station – a pleasant 20 minute drive from 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ along the South Eastern Freeway.

Leaving Mt Barker mid morning, the train first climbs up to the crest of the line and then winds down the eastern escarpment of the southern Mt Lofty Ranges, passing through several long abandoned station sites which bear testimony to the importance of this branch line a century ago.

Crossing the Angas River you then enter the historic township of Strathalbyn where many Scottish migrants settled in the early 1800s, influencing the early architecture which is still evident today. The town is well worth a visit to explore its well stocked antique shops and cafes.

You can return to Mount Barker after a short break or catch the afternoon train back and spend a few hours in Strath. Either way the bakery is a must we say!

For more information, current ticket prices and timetables visit

Villa 19 is in the absolute dream spot. It’s right next to a huge lagoon-style pool, complete with a shallow end for the little ones, and just across from a massive grassy expanse where kids can run, ride scooters, play basketball, swing from trees, and generally disappear for hours. There are picnic tables scattered around, so you can grab a drink or snack and actually sit down while they play, and if that’s not enough, a private boardwalk leads straight to the beach. Honestly, it’s one of those layouts where the kids feel free to roam, but you still have that calm, safe feeling as a parent.

The villa itself looks out over the lake, which is stunning in the morning light and gives the whole place a peaceful vibe. There’s a deck off the downstairs bedroom that’s perfect for a quiet coffee, and upstairs a huge balcony with a proper outdoor dining setup and a BBQ that basically screams weekend feasts and margaritas for the adults. It sleeps up to ten, which works really well for two families or a bigger group without anyone feeling on top of each other.

Inside, the attention to detail is next level. The bunk room was an instant hit, with two double bunks, books, and toys already set up, which makes settling in that much easier. The beds are seriously comfortable, and the linen is so soft you almost don’t want to get out of bed in the morning (as we’ve come to expect from a Sanbis stay). The lighting is warm and gentle, and the lampshades are exactly the kind I’d pick for my own house if I could. Small touches that make the whole place feel effortlessly cosy.

The house is set up for families in a way that actually makes sense. There is plastic dining for kids, a high chair, step stool, portacot, pool towels, sports gear, Netflix, WiFi, and even a popcorn machine, which quickly became the highlight of movie night. The adults aren’t forgotten either, with a proper barista-style coffee machine that made mornings feel a little indulgent. And yes, it is a two-storey house, which means stairs, but there is a safety gate at the top that any parent of little ones will quietly celebrate. The garage as been transformed into a second living space with another TV and fridge making it the perfect hangout for older kids or teens.

Normanville itself is quiet and coastal, with cafes, shops, and a few short drives for exploring the rest of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Ingalalla Falls is only five minutes away, with Second Valley and Rapid Bay also close by. But honestly, once you are at Villa 19, it is hard to want to leave. The pool, the lake, the grassy areas, the private boardwalk to the beach, it all just works so the kids are happy and the parents can breathe.

If I could move in here, I would in a heartbeat. Since that is probably a bit far-fetched, I will happily settle for a Sanbis Villa stay at least once a year.

Location: Villa 19, South Shores, Normanville
For bookings and more information:
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Max’s skill, knowledge and passion are immediately obvious the moment you step inside. This is true bean to bar chocolate making, with every step of the process carefully crafted on site. The cacao beans are thoughtfully sourced for both flavour and ethics, then transformed into beautifully balanced chocolates that showcase depth, texture and aroma. The scents alone are worth the visit, rich, warm and comforting. Simply pop into the chocolate door (can we call it that?) and you’ll be welcomed with genuinely personal service.

Max loves sharing his process, explaining flavour profiles, techniques and tasting tips in a way that feels relaxed, generous and never rushed. And then there’s the packaging, beautifully custom designed and seriously aesthetic. If aesthetics were a competition, these guys just blew it out of the water.

Set against a gorgeous McLaren Vale backdrop, Trilby’s Chocolates feel special without being intimidating. I guarantee you it is a place you’ll want to bring visiting friends, grandparents, kids (yes, they’re very welcome) and out-of-towners who want a true South Australian food experience. You can also , which is dangerous knowledge once you’ve tasted what’s on offer. Do yourself a favour and give them a follow on socials too. This is a high-quality, proudly South Australian product made with intention and an experience that’s only just beginning. Now, with Easter and Mother’s Day around the corner you are well and truly sorted… you’re welcome

What a fabulous unique celebration of small things, done well. Very well.

Find it at: 215 Douglas Gully Road, Blewitt Springs, South Australia 5171

Website:

and

Tucked away in the rolling countryside just outside McLaren Vale, this distillery door feels personal in the best way. It’s not flashy or overdone. It’s relaxed, welcoming, and the kind of place where you arrive, take a breath, and realise you’re in no rush to leave.

What really stood out to us though was how genuinely family-friendly it is. Gin tastings are usually a strictly grown-up experience, but here the kids are very much part of the visit, not an afterthought. With a kids tasting flight on offer, the whole family can sit down and enjoy the experience together, something we don’t see often, and always appreciate when we do.

The Little Trotters Tasting Flight is made for the little ones, with three drinks and three snacks. It’s such a simple idea, but honestly, it makes visiting with kids feel way more relaxed. Everyone gets to join in, no FOMO here.

And then… the butter board. Gin flights might be old hat for us grown-ups, but a butter board? That was something new, and we are very here for it.

The Little Oinker Butterboard stole the show. Imagine creamy whipped butter piled high with mini marshmallows, hundreds and thousands, dark choc chips, and a drizzle of raspberry syrup, all served with soft white bread. Sweet, sticky, ridiculous… and absolutely delightful. There are adult butter board options too, which sound very fun, but between the delicious pizzas and arancini balls, we couldn’t manage another bite and that’s our excuse to go back soon.

So yes – they’ve got great gin ✔️
Delicious food ✔️
Thoughtful kid-friendly options ✔️

But if you need one more reason to visit, let it be the beautiful outdoor space. A relaxed patio opening onto a gorgeous stretch of green grass, surrounded by rolling countryside, birdsong, and that peaceful, slow-down feeling you don’t realise you need until you’re there. It’s quiet, intimate, and instantly makes you want to linger.

For kids, there are lawn games (giant Connect Four and Jenga), and even a piano to tinker away on. For parents, it’s the kind of place where you can actually sit back, exhale, and enjoy your drink while the kids are happily occupied.

Ginny Pig Distillery isn’t just a distillery door. It’s one of those rare spots where families genuinely feel welcome. And that’s something worth raising a glass to.

Location: 240 Cleland Gully Rd, Mt Compass, SA, 5210
Opening Hours: Open Thursday – Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm
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If you’re hunting for a family holiday park experience that the kids will rave about before you’ve even unpacked the car, ticks every single kid-approved box. Located on the gorgeous Fleurieu Peninsula, our crew instantly found their happy place here. We rolled in, unpacked, and the kids had us exploring the park with them as soon as we could.

The epic water park was an instant obsession, with slides, sprayers and the Discovery branded tipping bucket that guarantees everyone gets soaked. Our modern Deluxe 2 Bedroom Cabin slept six and was just steps from the heated pool, which made “just a quick swim” a very regular occurrence (even in the rain). Then the kids realised there is a second heated pool. Two pools? That’s holiday gold.

The play options here are next level. The main playground is a solid 10/10. Big, modern and designed for all ages, with climbing equipment, loads of space and a full-size flying fox that stayed busy all day. The bouncing pillow was another non-negotiable favourite, and quickly became a central meeting point for many games with new friends.

Just when we thought we’d found everything, we stumbled across a second playground. A little older and a bit tucked away, but home to the sweetest blue cottage cubby house. Total hidden gem. There was also a basketball hoop, perfect to shoot some hoops. Throw in few park laps on a pedal kart and a quick game of cricket with the neighbours, and the kids were happily entertained from morning to night.

Discovery Parks – Goolwa really nails that relaxed holiday vibe. Kids love cruising around on bikes and scooters (helmets on, of course!), and parents love how safe and contained the park feels. There are often food vans on site, so dinner is easy, and if you’re more of a grill master, the well-maintained, covered BBQ facilities are just waiting for you to throw another shrimp (err… sausage) on the barbie. And… there was even a gin tasting during our stay. Consider us impressed!

As evening rolls in, it’s movie night, and it’s always worth checking in with staff about school holiday activities and special events. There’s often something extra fun happening.

Our cabin was spotless, stylish and perfectly set up for families, with two bunks, a queen bed, and all linen and towels supplied (no extra packing required). The powered sites looked just as well cared for, and the entire park was neat, welcoming and easy to relax in.

Set right at the gateway to the Lower Lakes and the Murray Mouth, Goolwa is an easygoing coastal town made for family holidays. With wide open spaces, and plenty to explore, it’s the kind of place where you don’t need a big plan. You’re minutes from Goolwa Beach, the much-loved Cockle Train and the river foreshore for picnics, bike rides and pelican spotting or you can park the car and just enjoy your entire stay with in the holiday park where the list of things to do really does feel endless.

If you’re after a fun-packed, low-stress family getaway with plenty to keep the kids happy (and a few perks for parents too), Discovery Parks – Goolwa is a winner and well worth adding to your family holiday must-visit list.

(Use code KIDSINADL25 at checkout for 15% discount until Nov 2026 t&c apply)


Location: 40 Kessell Rd, Goolwa SA 5214
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This content was created in partnership with Discovery Parks

If you’re looking for the kind of holiday where the kids will be outside and entertained ALL DAY LONG look no further than . Join in the fun or sit back and relax while the kids have a ball!

They have a fantastic new resort style pool! This huge pool is 250,000 litres and 65m around. One half is under shade and there’s also plenty of poolside seating, sun lounges and picnic tables. The main pool starts at just 10cm deep so little ones can splash play, right down to 1.8m at the deepest point. The original pool will also remain open giving guests two areas to swim.

Splash Harbor waterpark featuring giant hurricane slide and double tipping bucket is super popular with all guests young and old!. It is believed the vortex slide and double bucket are the first of their kind ever installed in a holiday park in Australia!

Located on Bay Rd, just 5 minutes from the beach and a few minutes more to the centre of Victor Harbor this spacious 22-acre park offers a selection of self-contained units and cabin accommodation as well as spacious powered and unpowered sites for camping, caravans and motorhomes.

The cabin accommodation ranges from affordable budget accommodation right up to their very comfortable 3 bedroom Heysen cabins which have prime spot at the park, overlooking the grassed pump track area as well as being right near the fantastic recreation area. The Heysen cabin sleep up to 8 people making them a great option for family holidays in Victor Harbor. Their 2 bedroom Hindmarsh cabins are also in a great location and are fully accessible for those with mobility issues.

to take a look at the accommodation options available at the park

But the real draw card of this park is the facilities. Guaranteed to keep the kids busy all day and ready for a good night sleep! A win for kids AND parents! Located within the park grounds you’ll find..

• Pump Track – for hours of bike, scooter and skateboard fun
• Dual waterslide tower
• Two swimming pools
• Mini Golf
• Playground
• Jumping Pillow
• Outdoor movies and FREE school holiday activities
• Games Room
• Onsite takeaway shop (try the donuts)
• Pedal Kart and Bike Hire, and more!

All of that included in your nightly fee! It’s school holiday heaven! We’ve stayed here quite a few times now and it really does come highly recommended as your next family holiday or even a weekend mini break.

Kids in 91ąű¶ł´«Ă˝ Review – Family Favourite for a reason

We have stayed at Victor Harbor Holiday Park three times now, and honestly, there is a reason we keep coming back. It is just fabulous.

This time we checked into one of the Newland cabins, a two-bedroom superior cabin literally right next to the lagoon pool. And when I say right next to, I mean open your door and you are practically swimming (do not worry, there is a fence, thank goodness). The outdoor patio was perfect for meals, and being so close meant we could zip back for drinks or a quick loo stop without trekking halfway across the park.

A wonderful new addition to the second bedroom is the themed kids bunk beds. They are ideal for children under eight and a super cool way to make bedtime fun, matching the playful theme of the rest of the holiday park. The campervan themed design, complete with a surfboard-style ladder was an absolute hit with my two kids. There is also a standard bunk bed for kids who are a bit bigger or dads who snore.

Now, full disclosure, only one of the three slides was working during our stay as they are waiting on a new pump, but lucky for us it was the Hurricane Slide, and it is the most fun one anyway. The kids were up and down non-stop while I got tired just watching them. Good to note for those who have been before, the slides are now fenced off. I believe this is new since our last visit.

This was our first time visiting during Halloween and it was such a fun experience. The reception staff handed out goodies and even performed a trick for the kids and it was lovely to see other families getting involved too.

We still absolutely love the barbecue area down by the playground, jumping pillow and pump track. It is the perfect spot to set up for a meal while the kids play and make new friends.The Hungry Harbor Takeaway was open this time so we grabbed some fish and chips one night. It was hot, crispy and surprisingly well priced. Next time, we’ll be firing up that pizza oven at the camp kitchen for some delicious DYI pizzas.

Every time we visit we find something new to love. From the wonderful atmosphere to the family-friendly layout, Victor Harbor Holiday Park just makes holidaying with kids feel easy. We are already planning trip number four.

This is a Hampshire Holidays Park:

For more information about the park, to check rates or to book online visit their website

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If you’re looking for other great places to visit while on the Fleurieu, don’t forget to check out our FLEURIEU FOR KIDS feature right here on our website >> kidsinadelaide.com.au/category/discover/fleurieu

The kids darted between bites and playtime, climbing in and out of the charming little “boat” sandpit just a few steps away (OMG it was even clean, close and safe enough that we could keep an eye on them while actually enjoying our time at the table.)

For the older kids, the oversized Connect Four and Jenga sets became a full-blown championship event. Between laughter, mock cheering, and the occasional dramatic victory dance, it kept them happily entertained for ages. Meanwhile, our eyes feasted on the panoramic valley views that signature sweep of McLaren Vale that never gets old, while we sipped a chilled glass of rosé and the kids clinked mocktails with paper straws and big smiles. It’s that rare combination of atmosphere and freedom where everyone feels at ease.

What makes Beach Road Wines so fabulous for families is how effortlessly it all flows. The space invites kids to move, play, and explore without ever feeling like you’re intruding on other diners. The food is simple and delicious, the staff are welcoming, and the whole experience feels like a long, happy exhale. For parents chasing that perfect mix of great wine, good food and genuine kid-friendliness this spot is pure McLaren Vale magic.

We must give a nod to the warm chocolate brownie that stole our hearts, and the gelati cabinet that stole the remainder of the days calorie intake.

This place is a true 10/10 for families. So many wineries are not this.

You’ll find Beach Road Winery at
309 Seaview Road McLaren Vale
Phone:  08 8323 7344
For more information visit their website at

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For other places and things to do with kids in McLaren Vale check out this link

We started at Oxenberry Farm, however the Fleurieu Visitor Centre is usually the main pick-up hub for SA eBikes, and we set off along the Shiraz Trail, a beautiful, mostly flat path that winds past vineyards, gum trees and wide open countryside. It’s one of those rides that feels good for you but is still relaxing, with just the right amount of effort. The gentle help of the electric assist makes the hills a total breeze, so you can enjoy the scenery and conversation with the kids, instead of huffing and puffing your way up them.

We gave both the tuk tuks and the e-bikes a go, and both were a hit. The tuk tuks are brilliant for families, easily carrying two passengers comfortably on the back while one person pedalled up front. Then we jumped on the regular e-bikes (our highlight) and rode around 7km each way to Dandelion Vineyards, where we had pre-booked a gorgeous picnic lunch. Sitting on the expansive lawns, surrounded by vines, views, sunshine and fresh air, was the perfect way to recharge before cruising back. The kids loved it here with lawn games and room to move around.

SA eBikes offer all sorts of ride options and itineraries, from short scenic loops to half-day winery rides or full-day adventures exploring McLaren Vale’s trails and cellar doors. The beauty of the e-bikes is that they suit all ages and fitness levels, and make it easy to enjoy the outdoors without feeling worn out. From e-bikes with baby carries, to e-bikes with a cargo seat and rails on the back that carry up to two kids….. the whole family can join in with ease. The teenagers loved having their own bikes and are begging to go back.

Your hire includes a comfy, high quality eBike with pedal assist, a helmet, map, lock and full safety briefing including instructions if you haven’t ridden an eBike before (don’t worry it was so easy) and there is always on call support in the event you need help or have questions along the way.

You can find all the details and book online at . If you’re after a family outing that’s active, beautiful, a bit special and just plain fun, this one’s hard to beat! We felt great about exploring more of our own backyard and genuinely felt like this stacked up to any world class experience that would be available, all just under an hours drive from the city. Yep, this one is going on our 2026 bucket list for you guys.

SA eBike Hubs are conveniently located at McLaren Vale Visitor Centre (main hub), Dandelion Wonderoom, Ortus Wines, Oxenberry Farm, Shirvington Wines, Beresford Estate, and DogRidge Wines. We highly recommend having a chat with the team before booking if you are doing this with kids and this will ensure you book the best suited bikes for your group.

Location: 796 Main Road, McLaren Vale South Australia (McLaren Vale Visitor Centre)
Open: Seven days per week
Phone: 0490 671 789
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