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YKW — Image credit: Alexandrina Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Yuntulun Ku:li-war

'Yuntulun Ku:li-war' – translates to 'Coming together on the headland' in Ngarrindjeri. This interactive exhibition tells the stories of the First Nations people of this area, the early settlement history of Goolwa as a major river port and the ecology of the Murray Darling River system. The exhibition is the jewel in the crown of the revamped Signal Point Experience Centre, which also hosts an annual calendar of visual art exhibitions. A project that has been funded by Alexandrina Council and the Australian Government.

Goolwa SA

0.0 km away

Encounter Bikeway, Middleton — Image credit: Alexandrina Council

Entertainment Venues

Tourist Drive Route 50

Tourist Drive Route 50 is 73 kilometres of breath taking coastal and rural scenery. On your journey you will see some of the most picturesque and historic locations the Fleurieu has to offer, including popular surfing beaches where Southern Right Whales can be spotted June to October, lookouts and viewing platforms that offer magnificent river and coastal views, significant buildings, bush land and tree studded farmland, the entrance point into the Coorong National Park and finishing off your adventure at the mouth of the River Murray - where the river meets the sea. To view or download a copy of Tourist Drive Route 50 please visit the website.

Goolwa SA

0.0 km away

PS Oscar W cruising — Image credit: Alexandrina Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Paddle Steamer Oscar W

The PS Oscar W is a steam driven wood fired authentic working paddle steamer built at Echuca, Victoria, in 1908. Now located at the historic Goolwa Wharf Precinct, Goolwa, South Australia. Visitors have the opportunity to experience living history by joining one of the regular one-hour cruises on board the PS Oscar W. To feel, smell, hear and see what it is like to journey down the Murray River on this historic vessel, please call the Goolwa Visitor Information Centre or go to the Visit Alexandrina website to book your cruise today. Whilst on the wharf, stop in at our new Heritage Museum. For a modest fee, you can learn all about this amasing part of South Australia and how it was the centre of shipbuilding for over 100 years. During the cruise, you will travel downstream to the Goolwa Barrage, then back under the Hindmarsh Island bridge, travelling upriver a short distance before returning to the historic Goolwa Wharf. The PS Oscar W is located outside the Goolwa RiverPort Heritage Centre and is open as a static display on days it is not cruising. Let this picturesque paddle steamer be the backdrop for creating cherished memories with your loved ones. Traverse the tranquil waters, revel in the captivating ambience, and let the PS Oscar W whisk you away on a whimsical journey through time.

Goolwa SA

0.1 km away

Rx224 coasts along the coastline nearing Investigator Beach, between Port Elliot and Victor Harbor. — Image credit: Pete Michalak

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The Cockle Train

The Cockle Train travels along the oldest steel railed railway in Australia dating back to 1854 when it was constructed to provide a link between the River Murray and the ocean wharfs at Pt Elliot and later at Victor Harbor. Tickets are available at the Goolwa, Port Elliot & Victor Harbour Railway Stations on day of travel. The Cockle Train commences its run each day at Goolwa station, in the historic Wharf Precinct alongside the River Murray. Leaving Goolwa, 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. After leaving Port Elliot the train climbs to the top of the coastal cliffs and passengers experience 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.

Goolwa SA

0.1 km away

Signal Point Building

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Signal Point Experience Centre

Signal Point Gallery showcases contemporary artists from across the region as well as nationally touring exhibitions, bringing exceptional cultural material for residents and visitors to immerse themselves in year-round. Funding to re-furbish the Signal Point Building (July 2021) - The Goolwa Wharf Precinct’s Signal Point building has received $980,000 grant funding from the Federal Government‘s Murray Darling Basin Economic Development Grant funding program (Round 3) to create a state-of-the-art Experience Centre. This exciting project will include the design and internal fit-out of the Signal Point Gallery building and an interpretive story telling centre to enhance visitor experience. The Centre will showcase indigenous and colonial heritage, local produce and arts, and activate the building space. The Signal Point building is an icon of the Goolwa Wharf Precinct and will be the centre piece for sharing history and significance of place, and act as a launch pad into the surrounding experiences on offer in the greater Alexandrina region. The fit-out will encapsulate and leverage the building’s unique location overlooking the mighty Murray River, a river system that is symbolic and significant for the River Port Town of Goolwa for its social and economic wellbeing.

Goolwa SA

0.1 km away

Happy Cittaslow Volunteers — Image credit: Gillian Keen

Shopping and Markets

Cittaslow Goolwa Produce and Artisan Market

Held on the Second, Fourth and Fifth Sundays (February through to December) in Jaralde Park our market provides a relaxed friendly atmosphere for visitors to browse produce and products created here on the Fleurieu Peninsular. Our aims are to create access to and raise community awareness of good quality and nutritious food, promote and showcase the skills of local and regional growers and producers, foster the community and environmental contribution of local artisans and makers of arts and crafts, celebrate the unique character of the region, respect and preserve local traditions, heritage and cultural practices, encourage sustainable living opportunities to reduce the whole community's ecological footprint and activate public spaces and create a sense of pride and identity in the reagion

Goolwa SA

0.1 km away

Tokuremoar Reserve — Image credit: Alexandrina Tourism

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Encounter Bikeway

Located on the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula (approximately 90 minute drive South of Adelaide city), the Encounter Bikeway travels along pristine coastline linking the heritage towns of Goolwa, Port Elliot and Middleton with Victor Harbor. The total distance of the Encounter Bikeway is 31 kilometres one way and is a mixture of on-road and shared pathway. A range of riding distances makes The Bikeway suitable for all ages and can be utilised by a variety of leisure activities including walking, bike riding, skating and rollerblading. The Encounter Bikeway is wheelchair accessible. Visit our website or call into the Goolwa Visitor Information Centre for a copy of the Encounter Bikeway Map. There is also the option on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays and South Australian school holidays to bike ride one way and then travel back with your bike on the historic Cockle train. It is essential to contact SteamRanger prior on 1300 655 991 to confirm availability for this service.

Goolwa SA

0.2 km away

Arial view

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Goolwa History Walks

The Goolwa History Walks connect 3 separate walks around the historic Goolwa township. Walk 1 - Cadell Street (allow 50 minutes, distance 900 metres) Walk 2 - Goolwa Wharf Precinct (allow 1 hour, distance 1300 metres) Walk 3 - Little Scotland (allow 1.5 hours, distance 1400 metres) All 3 walks Commence at the Goolwa Visitor Information Centre. The Goolwa Wharf and Railway Precinct predates the establishment of Goolwa as we know it today. The original survey of ‘Town on the Goolwa’ in 1839 positioned the town to the north of the present railway line; however, this was not suitable for the establishment of a port as the water was too shallow close to the river bank. With the navigation of the Murray River accomplished in 1851, an immediate start was made to the construction of a railway to link this river port to Port Elliot, which was completed in 1854 and extended to Victor Harbor in 1864.

Goolwa SA

0.2 km away

South Coast Regional Arts Centre

Galleries, Museums and Collections

South Coast Regional Art Centre

Alexandrina is home to a vibrant community, where a high population of artists have chosen to live and work, making us a regional centre of culture in South Australia. The South Coast Regional Art Centre promotes emerging and professional artists from across the Southern Fleurieu region and is a hive of creative activity including artists’ studios. The South Coast Regional Art Centre offers year-round visual art exhibitions with associated workshop opportunities. Located in the historic Old Goolwa Police Station on Goolwa Terrace, the Art Centre is a unique mixture of heritage and culture.

Goolwa SA

0.2 km away

Southern Film Society — Image credit: Richard Hodges

Entertainment Venues

Centenary Hall

Centenary Hall, located in the picturesque town of Goolwa, is a versatile, performing arts venue, perfectly suited for a wide range of events—from theatrical and musical performances to film screenings and presentations. Patrons are invited to enjoy an exciting calendar of live performances and musical productions, with tickets available for purchase throughout the year. The venue is available for hire by commercial promoters, presenters, individuals, and community groups.

Goolwa SA

0.4 km away

Bristow Smith Reserve Nature Playspace — Image credit: Alexandrina Council

Parks and Gardens

Bristow Smith Reserve Nature Playspace

Goolwa's premier park for families looking for a fun day out! The nature playspace features a 10-metre long restored wooden fishing boat, Parkour elements, sensory wall, climbing nets, basket swings and stepping logs, along with an upgraded beach area on the banks of the River Murray, BBQs and shelters. There is plenty of open area for sport, activities and picnicking! Features include: cyprus pine tree featuring hand carved Australian animals nearby facilities include boat ramp and jetty kids shallow swimming beach access (banks of the River Murray) three barbecues available drinking water fountain. The playspace provides a unique regionally significant open space to inspire connection with the local environment and engage children in creative and imaginative play. It further provides children with physical, sensory and mentally stimulating play opportunities and allows all children to challenge themselves, irrespective of age and ability. A number of the sensory elements of the play space have been funded through the generous $50,000 donation by the Fleurieu Philanthropy Foundation and include a sensory wall, musical and sound features and interpretive artwork scattered throughout the playspace.

Goolwa South SA

1.2 km away

Entrance to shadehouse — Image credit: Wyatt Trowse and Peta Quilliam

Shopping and Markets

Oscar's Bonsai Farm

Oscar's Bonsai Farm is a small bonsai nursery located on the Fleurieu, operated by a enthusiastic and dedicated person. The industrial style shop is still new to the area, opening in 2023. It stocks a variety of Bonsai and pre-bonsai. Stock includes junipers, deciduous, evergreen, common and uncommon species of trees used for bonsai. There is a small range of bonsai tools available and small bags of some substrates may be able to be arranged by order. A styling and maintenance service of trees is also available.

Goolwa SA

1.5 km away

Goolwa Regatta Yacht Club — Image credit: Canvas Sails

Entertainment Venues

Goolwa Regatta Yacht Club

Awarded SA's best small sailing club for 2026, the oldest continuous yacht club in Australia dates back to the very beginning of Goolwa and its ship-building industry. A haven for vintage wooden boats and newer craft, the marina and clubhouse are couched on the grassy shores of the lower Murray. From its first regatta in 1854, the club has hosted events and festivities on and off the water and is open seasonally to the wider community.

Goolwa South SA

2.2 km away

Goolwa Beach — Image credit: Alexandrina Council

Natural Attractions

Goolwa Beach

Pristine white sand and surf beach. This 18km stretch of beach starts at Middleton and runs all the way to the River Murray Mouth. Gather pipis or cockles (a mollusc) on the beach in summer and keep a lookout for Southern Right Whales in the winter months. Goolwa beach can also be accessed by 4WD, make sure to pay attention to tide times and signage at the entry point. Please note that the sand dunes are out of bounds and driving on them is highly illegal. Part of the appeal of the drive is actually the expanse of untouched sand hills. The beach drive from the entrance point to the Murray Mouth is approximately 12kms.

Goolwa SA

2.3 km away

Goolwa Beach — Image credit: Government of South Australia

Natural Attractions

Seaspray Goolwa Beach

Seaspray at Goolwa Beach is a well-loved family beach house - two-storey house with five bedrooms, three bathrooms, separate living areas, reverse cycle AC, a family room with a pool table and is approximately 250m from magnificent Goolwa Beach. There is ample parking for four or more cars. Both front/back yards are lawned for plenty of play space, and the backyard is fenced. The property features the following layout: upstairs there is a large open plan living and dining area with large picture windows, a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, master bedroom with King bed and full ensuite, a second bathroom with bath and toilet and a large front balcony. Downstairs there is a second living area with a pool table, four bedrooms, a third bathroom and a laundry with washing machine. Both levels have split system heating and cooling. Both levels are also equipped with their own TV/DVD Player as well as a number of games, books and magazines. The TV upstairs is a Smart TV with Netflix/Stan - WIFI provided.

Goolwa Beach SA

2.6 km away

Goolwa Barrage — Image credit: Alexandrina Council

Landmarks and Buildings

Goolwa Barrage

Looking to do something a little bit different on the weekend? Take a trip to the Goolwa Barrage and see the River Murray in action. The barrage was constructed principally to reduce salinity levels in the lower reaches of the River Murray, Lake Alexandrina and Lake Albert, stabilise the river level and as a way of regulating the river's flow. If you're interested in how things work, want to know what it takes to keep the river in shape, or just like to do something a bit different on your weekends, it's actually well worth a visit. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll across the barrage, taking in the surrounds of the lower River Murray, with views across to Hindmarsh Island. There's plenty of birdlife around the place, and you can often spot some cheeky seals fishing for their lunch. There's also a BBQ sheltered area, shade trees, lawn, a kayak launch site and public toilets close by. Entry is free and it is open to the public 8.30 - 12.30pm and 1.30pm - 4.30pm daily

Goolwa SA

3.3 km away

The Old Chart Room — Image credit: Flickr

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Goolwa Visual Arts Group Exhibition

The historic and heritage listed Old Chart Room buiding has been converted into a Gallery to showcase the work done by a local community art group, The Goolwa Visual Arts Group Inc. It is located at the northern end of the Goolwa Wharf Precinct, next to Amelia Park, with a beautiful view of the River Murray and the Hindmarsh Island Bridge. Local artists exhibit their work for viewing and sale on Goolwa Whatf Market days. Regular updates of the art exhibits occurs as new works are created.

Goolwa North SA

3.3 km away

This Joey Is So Funny !

Amusement and Theme Parks

Animal Farm Goolwa

Animal Farm Goolwa is a family-operated attraction where visitors of all ages can interact with a wide variety of animals and enjoy a fun, relaxing day. Located in the scenic Fleurieu Peninsula countryside, it's only a six-minute drive from South Australia's top surf beaches and whale-watching spots. You'll find the common farm animals, including kangaroos, alpacas, and friendly emus. They often have baby animals, so check their Facebook page for the latest arrivals. Admission includes trailer rides and crazy golf, making for a fun day out. Takeaway drinks are available, and you're encouraged to bring your own picnic to enjoy at the tables in the play area, making it a perfect full-day outing.

Goolwa SA

4.9 km away

SA Skydiving - Goolwa

Sports and Recreation Facilities

SA Skydiving - Goolwa

SA Skydiving is South Australia's premier skydiving operation, delivering Tandem Skydiving, Solo Skydiving Courses and sports skydiving. Located just over an hour south of the City, our Goolwa skydiving location will give you indulgent views of the ocean, Kangaroo Island, beaches, Horseshoe Bay, the Coorong National Park and the Murray Mouth. After meeting your professional instructor, you'll take off from our hanger at Goolwa Airport. Enjoy the views of the breathtaking south coast as you calm your nerves on the way to your exit altitude. Once the door opens, you'll feel a rush of fresh air and the adrenaline pump through your veins. As you exit the aircraft, you'll experience the rush of freefall at 220kph, a free-ing feeling like no other. Once under parachute, take control to fly through the sky before landing on the grass outside our hanger. Located close to popular tourist towns Victor Harbour, Middleton, Goolwa and Port Elliot, you can really make a day out of skydiving Goolwa. Grab yourself an amazing coffee from Motherduck Cafe, Goolwa, a tasty pie from Home Grown Bakery, Middleton and a famous Donut of the month from the Port Elliot Bakery. Group bookings welcome. Operates: 1st Saturday and 3rd Sunday of each month

Goolwa SA

5.1 km away

Middleton Arts and Crafts Building

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Middleton Arts and Crafts Community Centre & Pop Up Shop

Welcome to the Middleton Arts and Crafts Association and Pop Up Gallery, are located at Main Road Middleton, South Australia. They have numerous crafts items for sale ranging from pottery, children’s clothing, mosaics, jewellery, wood turned items, knitted items, cards, heat bags and also homemade cakes, sauces, pickles, jams, chocolate items, and more. The pop-up gallery will have a variety of artists displaying their beautiful work on a monthly basis, so there is always something new to come in and see.

Middleton SA

7.2 km away

Horseshoe Bay, Port Elliot — Image credit: Alexandrina Council

Natural Attractions

Horseshoe Bay, Port Elliot

Horseshoe Bay is one of the sweetest beach settings in South Australia. Spend your summer days body boarding, swimming and building sand castles. Walk the trails along a dramatic coastline for stunning views and sunsets from the cliff top and wander through the charming streets of Port Elliot admiring the town’s historical facades. Southern Right Whale sightings are a regular attraction in winter.

Port Elliot SA

9.8 km away

Art of You Studio - Factory 9 — Image credit: Rebecca Elson

Entertainment Venues

Art of You: Creative and Wellness Studio – Art, Hypnotherapy, Drumming, Sound & Connection

Welcome to Art of You – a creative wellness studio in beautiful Port Elliot where art, rhythm, and healing come together in playful and powerful ways. The workshops and sessions are designed to spark joy, calm the nervous system, and reconnect you to your inner spark. Think art therapy with a twist, hypnotherapy for self-discovery, soulful sound immersions, energising adult drumming circles, and creative connection workshops for families, teens, and little ones. Whether you're joining a women's circle, dropping in for a young creatives session, or tapping into rhythm at community drumming, every experience is relaxed, real, and heart-led. The studio is a welcoming space where all ages can slow down, explore, and express themselves without pressure. Each workshop blends creativity with gentle therapeutic tools, making them both meaningful and fun. Local artists, musicians, and facilitators bring fresh energy to every term – so there's always something new to try. Perfect for locals and holidaymakers alike, our sessions offer a one-of-a-kind way to spend time in Port Elliot – whether you're seeking connection, creativity, or just a breath of fresh air. Bookings essential.

Port Elliot SA

11 km away

Fleurieu Aquatic Centre - YMCA

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Fleurieu Aquatic Centre - YMCA

The Fleurieu Aquatic Centre is a vibrant state of the art aquatic, health and fitness and community Centre. Memberships and casual admission options available. Features of the facility include: 25 metre, 8 lane swimming pool, Multi-use program pool, Hydrotherapy Pool, Outdoor splash park, Fitness facility, KidsClub, Café. Visit their website for up to date details, availability, events and pricing.

Hayborough SA

13 km away

Starfish Park

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Starfish Park

The Starfish Park playground is located five minutes from the heart of Victor Harbor. There is a flying fox which will be sure to make the kids squeal with joy. A giant climbing frame, a fireman’s pole, swings, and sandpit are all close to a sheltered barbeque area and drinking fountain. Families will love spending time here out in the fresh air. There is a large lawn area with plenty of room to kick a ball. There are public toilets with disabled facilities. This is the perfect spot for a family get together, Christmas or birthday party.

Hayborough SA

13 km away

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