Villa 19 is in the absolute dream spot. Itā€™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 thatā€™s not enough, a private boardwalk leads straight to the beach. Honestly, itā€™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. Thereā€™s a deck off the downstairs bedroom thatā€™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 donā€™t want to get out of bed in the morning (as weā€™ve come to expect from a Sanbis stay). The lighting is warm and gentle, and the lampshades are exactly the kind Iā€™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 arenā€™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:
Find Sanbis Retreats on and

Maxā€™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 youā€™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 thereā€™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 youā€™ll want to bring visiting friends, grandparents, kids (yes, theyā€™re very welcome) and out-of-towners who want a true South Australian food experience. You can also , which is dangerous knowledge once youā€™ve tasted whatā€™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 thatā€™s only just beginning. Now, with Easter and Motherā€™s Day around the corner you are well and truly sortedā€¦ youā€™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. Itā€™s not flashy or overdone. Itā€™s relaxed, welcoming, and the kind of place where you arrive, take a breath, and realise youā€™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 donā€™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. Itā€™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 thenā€¦ 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, ridiculousā€¦ and absolutely delightful. There are adult butter board options too, which sound very fun, but between the delicious pizzas and arancini balls, we couldnā€™t manage another bite and thatā€™s our excuse to go back soon.

So yes ā€“ they’ve got great gin āœ”ļø
Delicious food āœ”ļø
Thoughtful kid-friendly options āœ”ļø

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 donā€™t realise you need until youā€™re there. Itā€™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, itā€™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 isnā€™t just a distillery door. Itā€™s one of those rare spots where families genuinely feel welcome. And thatā€™s something worth raising a glass to.

Location: 240 Cleland Gully Rd, Mt Compass, SA, 5210
Opening Hours: Open Thursday ā€“ Sunday, 11 am ā€“ 5 pm
Find them on and

If youā€™re hunting for a family holiday park experience that the kids will rave about before youā€™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 ā€œjust a quick swimā€ a very regular occurrence (even in the rain). Then the kids realised there is a second heated pool. Two pools? Thatā€™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 weā€™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 ā€“ 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 youā€™re more of a grill master, the well-maintained, covered BBQ facilities are just waiting for you to throw another shrimp (errā€¦ sausage) on the barbie. Andā€¦ there was even a gin tasting during our stay. Consider us impressed!

As evening rolls in, itā€™s movie night, and itā€™s always worth checking in with staff about school holiday activities and special events. Thereā€™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, itā€™s the kind of place where you donā€™t need a big plan. Youā€™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 youā€™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 ā€“ 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 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½ 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 ā€œboatā€ 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 rosĆ© and the kids clinked mocktails with paper straws and big smiles. Itā€™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 youā€™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. Itā€™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 Valeā€™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 youā€™re after a family outing thatā€™s active, beautiful, a bit special and just plain fun, this oneā€™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
Find them on  or 

We visited for breakfast, what a way to start the day and fuel us up for exploring wineries, playgrounds and even a local hedge maze! Standouts that we gave a solid 10/10 were the kids plate, kids pancakes, Manna corn fritters, the big Fleurieu breakfast (proudly punched in by our hungry eight year old) and the most delicious orange and raspberry pancakes you could ever think up! The drinks menu is also worth a mention, with every thing from coffee’s to smoothies, juices and the most beautiful matcha too.

Thereā€™s both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can soak up the sunshine or stay cozy inside depending on the weather. The coffee here absolutely hits the spot (weā€™re still dreaming about their trio of coffee flight), and the food menu is as carefully curated as it is delicious. The kidsā€™ menu is a thoughtful stand out and it’s so fun, not just an afterthought. The kids options really appeal to little taste buds, and parents, you will approve! Take a better look at the food on their visual website menu. It certainly sealed the deal for us.

Inside, youā€™ll find a small lounge and play corner for toddlers, perfect for keeping the little cafĆ©-goers happy while parents and friends can enjoy a chat and get their caffeine in, or actually eat with both hands and no child on their lap.

Now, if you live near by or youā€™re in town on a Monday, make sure to stop by for Story Time!
Manna McLaren Vale runs Story Time every Monday at 11 am in their ā€œManna Studioā€ space. Itā€™s a free 30-minute session, with stories and songs aimed at preschoolers (0ā€“5 yrs). Families are welcome to come and go as they need and its just a relaxed, heartwarming way to start the week.

Beyond being a family-friendly cafĆ©, Manna also has a beautiful private function space at the back of the property and it’s perfect for birthday parties, celebrations, meetings or community events. The Manna Studio can even be set up with soft play for kidsā€™ parties, making it one of the most versatile venues in the Vale.

All in all, Manna McLaren Vale has nailed the balance between style, coffee, and quality food for all ages. It’s family comfort and it’s truly a spot where everyone (big or small) leaves happy. Parties of 5+ are encouraged to book.

Location: 211 Main Road McLaren Vale SA 5171
Opening Times: 7 days a week 7am to 3pm | Public Holidays 8am – 2pm
Phone: 0409 393 818 
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If you’re planning a trip to Victor be sure to put a few of these on your ‘to do’ list.

Due to the algal bloom, we recommend checking the authorised SA Government Algal Bloom update page , before attending any beaches or entering the water.

Victor Harbor Playgrounds

GT Fisher Playground

We have to admit, the GT Fisher Playground (or the Train Playground) on the foreshore has been a favourite for what feels like decades (because it has been decadesā€¦.that is how old we are!). Renovated a couple of years ago to transform this iconic spot into a fantastic nature playground, incorporating the old train still, it works so well as a destination spot to tuck into some lunch during your Victor day trip.

We love the fully fenced section for the little kids, whilst having a more open area (plus lots of grass to kick the footy) for the older ones. A beautiful spot with all the facilities you need!

For all the info on one of our faves, click here.

Victor Harbor Youth Park

If your kids are a bit old for the new GT Fisher Playground at Victor, or you need a spot where kids can play on equipment and also have a skate and shoot some hoops this is a great spot right on the foreshore. This area is suited more to older kids. The playground equipment (called the Teenranger) includes two circular climbing frames, flying fox and lots of things to balance on and hang from. The skate park is best for kids who are confident on their wheels, although when the bowl is quiet smaller kids will enjoy it too.

 This spot is great for the bigger kids and is well worth a read here.

Muwerang-Kent Reserve

You know what we love about Kent Reserve? It is solid. Not spectacular, but solid. Heaps of equipment for all ages, nothing flash but lots of good stuff for a range of ages. Then you add in some really good facilities like BBQs and toilets, then throw in the proximity to the beach (like 5 metres away) and you have yourself a great alternative to the usually busy foreshore area. Keep this one in the back of your mind if you are looking for a big quiet spot, close to the heart of Victor, to take the kids for a BBQ dinner and a play on the sand.

Check out our visit here.

Goolwa Nature Play Space

Goolwa! Only about 10 minutes down the road from Victor and if you can tear yourself away from the fabulous Sunday markets, then the kids will thank you if you get to their new(ish) nature playground. The Bristow Smith Reserve is headlined by a 10 metre long wooden boat, which your nautically inclined kids will be all over. Speaking of being all over, be wary this one is right on the waters edge and is not fenced, but the views of the mighty Murray will bring back memories of watching Storm Boy as a kid. If your kids havenā€™t seen it, get them onto some classic SA movie history.

Check out our visit to this great playground here

Commodore Reserve, Pt Elliot

Need to work off one of Port Elliot Bakeries ā€˜Donut of the Monthā€™? Why not pop down to Horseshoe Bay and check out a family spot with it all! Commodore Reserve has a cool little playground, which overlooks the beautiful Horseshoe Bay (close to our heart this oneā€¦we did nippers here many, many years ago!). Nearby walks along the coastal tracks make this a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, especially during whale season. If you are keen for a bit of whale spotting, check out all the info here.

A fantastic spot and although the playground is only a small one, the location, beach and trails (oh and bakery) make this really good for the whole fam. All the playground info here.

Starfish Park

Flying fox, sandpits, climbing rope towers and so much more! No wonder this is so popular over at Hayborough (just that little suburb near the Aldi as you come into Victor), but it also has some fab facilities to host a kids party or Sunday family BBQ with a huge grassed area to boot. 

Keen to know more about our visit? Click here!

Soldiers Memorial Playground

Picture this, you are at the foreshore, just been to Granite Island and want a little playground to rest but GT Fisher is cranking and crowdsā€¦.meh. Literally 100m in the other direction is the Soldiers Memorial Playground, one of the little KiA crewā€™s favourites down that way. Some great climbing equipment for the under 10s is what you will find here, plus easy access to the beach and great views of Granite Island and The Bluff. Check out our write up here!

Victor Harbor Beaches

Due to the algal bloom, we recommend checking the authorised SA Government Algal Bloom update page , before attending any beaches or entering the water.

The beaches along the coast at Victor are beautiful but some spots are waaaay better than others (looking at you foreshore seaweed mountains). Make sure youā€™re aware of the tidal movement if youā€™re out in a kayak as there can be some rips that pull you out. There are very few waves as Granite Island tends to block these, which makes it a lovely place for children to play in the water, fly kites and build castles and forts.

Middleton and Port Elliot are close by if you have kids who are interested in body-boarding or surfing, plus these are the nicest beaches by far when it comes to the sandy beaches you think of back in town.  The waves here are great for those learning to surf as the waves arenā€™t too large and the water is shallow quite a long way out. Please be aware that the tidal pull here is extremely strong. Even though the water looks very shallow it can drag children out very, very quickly and sweep their feet from under them. It is very important you keep a close eye on your children.

As you head along the coast past the Bluff, the beaches can get rather rough as the full force of the Southern Ocean pounds the coast, but the views and the walk are sensational.

We included the fab Victor Heritage Trail along the Bluff and the coast in our bushwalking featureā€¦.check it out here.

Family Friendly Restaurants and Cafes in Victor Harbor

Port Elliot Bakery

A South Australian icon and you canā€™t go to Victor without getting a pie, pasty or sausage roll from there! There are often line ups so that pretty much explains just how awesome this place is. Iā€™ve always figured that the energy and kilojoules it takes lining up balances it all out!

The Causeway Cafe

We love the Causeway Cafe because it offers a perfect blend of great food, stunning views, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Families visiting Victor Harbor should visit this cafe for its delicious menu that includes options for everyone, quality coffee, and homemade treats. The outdoor seating with views of Granite Island, along with the friendly staff and family-friendly vibe, make it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal or snack.

You can read our full review here

Family Friendly Things to Do and See in Victor Harbor

Cockle Train

The Cockle Train is truly a unique rail journey. Starting at the Riverside town of Goolwa, where the mighty Murray River meets the rails. This section of railway track from Goolwa to Port Elliot was the first iron railway in Australia and was opened in 1854, and you can travel on it! the next section of track from Port Elliot to Victor Harbour is full of stunning views. On one side are the hills overlooking the bay! The other side is the Southern Ocean with its lovely white beaches and playful surf awaiting you to take the plunge or even just a toe. At Victor Harbour one can wander through the streets or ride the horse drawn tram on the causeway to Granite Island. This journey can be taken from both directions.

Whale Watching

From May until around October make sure you plan at least one whale watching weekend with the kids in Victor Harbor, it’s SUCH a thrill to see them and there’s plenty of info on our website about when and where to go, and also a link to the SA Whale Centre whale sighting log so you can see how many are around.

click here for where to see whales in Victor Harbor

SA Whale Centre

The South Australian Whale Centre is South Australiaā€™s largest marine focused interpretative 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 Australiaā€™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.

Be sure to let the kids have a dig in the Dig Pit and search for fossils!  Make sure you check out their  and  for exciting new exhibits and talks!

Find out more by clicking here. 

Horsedrawn Tram

The horsedrawn tram is an iconic feature of Victor Harbor! The clydesdale horses pull the swaying tram across the new causeway  to Granite Island and back again. Kids LOVE going on the tram, or even just watching the horses being fed and groomed. The beautiful horses are magnificent, and the olden-days tram is a nice change of pace for kids.

Girdlers Family Amusements

Located at the end of the causeway in Victor Harbor, Girdlers Family Amusements in on-site throughout the School Holidays,
and most long weekends and public holidays. Ride the ferris wheel and other thrill rides, dodgem cars, inflatable balls and play sideshow games. There are food trucks where you can grab a good fish and chips and delicious strawberries and cream!

Granite Island

Granite Island is a short walk (or horsedrawn tram ride!) across the bridge from the main part of Victor Harbor. There are steep stairs and dusty walking paths that kids love exploring as they wander around the island. Be aware that prams can go across to the island but the walk around it is not suitable for young children (unless carried) or prams. Older children love it though and itā€™s not a long hike. Sensible shoes are recommended.

Look out for the famous Granite Island fairy penguins that inhabit the island

Urimbirra Wildlife Park

The Urimbirra Wildlife Park is around 5 minutes drive out of Victor Harbor. There is lots the kids will love, and itā€™s a great place to go if you have had enough of the beach! There are koalas, birds, lizards, snakes (gah!), wombats and also farm yard animals. Itā€™s worth packing a picnic and spending the day in the park. Guaranteed winner with the kids!

The Bluff

The Bluff is a long bike ride, walk or scoot along the coast, with a steep track to the top for awesome views. Or you can take the car and enjoy it too! Itā€™s a great spot to look back towards Victor Harbor and examine further down the coast.

Main St Sculpture

Head to the end of Main St after dinner to check out the light up sculpture at night! It makes for a great selfie spot. Our sources tell us it’s meant to be a jelly fish – but we’ll let you be the judge of that once you’ve seen it!

Where to stay in Victor Harbor

If youā€™re after a truly family friendly accommodation option we cannot recommend Victor Harbor Cabin and Holiday Park more. Weā€™ve stayed a few times now and our kids L-O-V-E it! You almost donā€™t need to organise any other activities because itā€™s ALL right there at the park.
Two swimming pools, jumping pillow, playground, onsite cafe, bike hire, pedal karts, games room and more!

There plenty of cabins available at a range of prices as well as powered and unpowered sites, and even ensuite sites!

Click here to find out more.

Each villa has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, so thereā€™s plenty of space for a girls weekend away, a family stay or maybe even extend the invite to the grandparents to join (because babysitters are pretty handy when staying in a wine region, just saying). The design is modern but welcoming, with polished concrete downstairs and warm timber floors upstairs. Yep, stairs, so if you have toddlers this one probably isn’t super geared up for the really little kids if we are honest. Our three kids, aged 6, 7 and 10 years spread out and made themselves right at home within five minutes of arriving.

We have to mention the beds because, honestly they were some of the most comfortable weā€™ve ever slept in. The linen is next level, the quilts are super plush, and getting up in the morning was a serious struggle (in the best way). Even the kids didnā€™t want to get out of bed, which never happens.

Our villa had a sweet little garden and outdoor dining area plus BBQ and a patio swing (big hit with the little ones). The kitchen is brilliantly stocked with all of the gear you could dream up to cook up a meal, or better yet, assemble a cheese platter to go with a local red or even to shake up a cocktail. Thereā€™s a Nespresso machine, T2 teas, and a high chair tucked away in the pantry for families travelling with babies or toddlers. The Wi-Fi is sh*t hot (we said what we said). Fast enough for work, streaming, or keeping the kids happy with a bit of Netflix downtime when you need a breather or want to finish that glass of wine in peace.

Itā€™s self-catered, but you’re spoilt for choice with food and coffee options just a short stroll away. Plus you’re literally next to the Shiraz Trail, which is great for a morning walk or bike ride, weather permitting.

We loved that Vale 194 gave us the space and comfort of home, with a touch of luxury. Everything from the bedding to the kitchen fit-out is high quality, and if youā€™re sharing with a couple of others, it suddenly becomes a pretty affordable way to live in luxury for the weekend.

Highly recommend for family getaways, girlsā€™ weekends, special occasions, or even just a change of scenery that doesnā€™t require a long drive. Would we go again? Absolutely!

Location: – 15/194 Main Rd McLaren Vale SA 5171
Email: info@vale194.com.au
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