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Meningie Information Hub Sign — Image credit: Coorong District Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Meningie Information Hub

Situated on the shores of Lake Albert and adjacent to the beautiful Meningie Lions Park and playground, the Meningie Information Hub provides a warm welcome for visitors and tourists seeking information on local and regional attractions, accommodation and things to see and do. The Meningie Information Hub has a small range of souvenirs featuring the Coorong landscape, books and stories inspired by the Coorong including Colin Thiele's Storm Boy, and a small range of items designed by Ngarrindjeri artist Cedric Varcoe. Information available includes: Local and Regional Accommodation Eating out Things to see and do Coorong National Park Bird watching Walking trails Local history

Meningie SA

15 km away

Meningie Foreshore — Image credit: Coorong District Council

Natural Attractions

Meningie Walking and Cycling Trails

Meningie is a relaxed, lakeside town offering some of the most stunning views across the Coorong and the lower lakes of the Murray River. Its peaceful atmosphere and unspoilt natural surroundings make it an ideal place to explore at a gentle pace. The town's walking and cycling trails provide a wonderful way to immerse yourself in this unique landscape. Whether you choose to wander along the waterfront or cycle through the scenic open spaces, the trails guide you to some of Meningie's most picturesque and interesting locations. As you make your way along the routes, you'll uncover excellent bird‑watching spots, intriguing historic sites, and plenty of places to pause and take in sweeping views of local wetlands, flora and wildlife. Each trail offers something a little different - perfect for a short lakeside stroll, a leisurely ride, or a deeper exploration of the region's natural and cultural environment. Designed for all ages and abilities, the Meningie Walking and Cycling Trails invite you to slow down, take your time, and experience the gentle beauty of life by the water.

Meningie SA

15 km away

Children pose with the Birdman of the Coorong Ostritch — Image credit: Murray River Lakes and Coorong Tourism Alliance

Landmarks and Buildings

Bushranger Birdman of the Coorong

In the history of South Australia it is thought that there was only ever one genuine bushranger. John Francis Peggotty, known as the "Birdman of the Coorong" was one like no other, pursuing his profession on the back of an ostrich! Before the end of his career in 1899 Peggotty was credited with more than a dozen hold-ups and murder of several travelers in the area. On one such occasion a local fisherman was less than impressed being held-up by the ostrich and its rider and being a great shot with a long rifle, wounded the rider and killed the ostrich. When inspecting his work the fisherman found only the corpse of the ostrich as the wounded Peggotty had scampered off leaving a trail of blood in the sand - to this day his remains have not been found in the dunes of the Coorong. On the shore of Lake Albert at Meningie you will find a statue of an ostrich in memory of this adventurous man.

Meningie SA

16 km away

Meningie Lions Walking Trail

Parks and Gardens

Meningie Lions Walking Trail

The award winning Lions Walking Trail is on the top of Meningie's to do list. The bush track has some echidnas busily digging their own track so be careful where you step! There are tables and seats for your use so take a picnic lunch with you (Don't forget the insect repellent). This trail requires a medium fitness level. It wanders through a diverse flora that exist in a Mallee environment. During spring, orchids can be found along the tracks along with over 40 native flowering plants. The track is broken into 3 main sections that can be walked as individual blocks or for the more adventurous you can complete all stages ending up at the Meningie Lookout before wandering along track to Meningie Cemetery with a final walk back to the Sailing Club then along the Pelican path into Meningie. This walk goes through various terrains and vegetation with each stage being very different to the previous one. Enjoy this beautiful bushland, at the end you'll be rewarded with Great 360 views of Meningie & surrounds.

Meningie SA

17 km away

The Narrows (Lake Albert meets Lake Alexandrina)

Natural Attractions

Narrung & Lake Albert Scenic Loop Drive

Discover one of the Coorong region's most scenic drives with the Narrung & Lake Albert Loop, a journey showcasing sweeping lake vistas, culturally significant sites and peaceful country landscapes. Starting from Meningie, travel northwest from the Noonameena turnoff (Seven Mile Road) toward Narrung. This route follows the shoreline of Lake Albert and offers distant glimpses of the northern Coorong. P Continue northeast to the quiet lakeside community of Narrung, then cross the free 24‑hour ferry at The Narrows, where Lake Albert meets Lake Alexandrina. Just above the ferry landing sits Point Malcolm Lighthouse, Australia's only inland lighthouse, built in 1878. Once essential for guiding paddle steamers navigating the lakes between Milang and Meningie, it remains a distinctive historic landmark. While nearby, visit Raukkan, home of the Ngarrindjeri people, and admire the 1868 church featured on the Australian $50 note. Following the sealed road east, you'll pass the historic Poltalloch Station and enjoy panoramic views across the southern side of Lake Alexandrina. Complete the loop by returning to Meningie via the Princes Highway, passing Ashville Hall and the striking Pink Lake, a colourful end to your scenic drive.

Poltalloch SA

28 km away

Tolderol Game Reserve — Image credit: DEW

Natural Attractions

Tolderol Game Reserve

Tolderol Game Reserve is a protected area of 428 hectares on the north-western side of Lake Alexandrina. The game reserve was proclaimed in 1970 and consists of a series of man made open and shallow basins with connecting channels and levee banks. These levees enable the manipulation of water levels to create rich foraging habitat for migratory wader birds. Tolderol is a well-regarded bird watching location, reed beds along the lake shore, grassy banks and shallow basins attract a wide variety of water fowl and migratory wader bird species. Being a game reserve there is a short duck hunting open season permitted in a designated area of the reserve and adjacent lakeshore (depending on seasonal conditions).

Tolderol SA

36 km away

Milang Jetty

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Milang Jetty

Milang nestles on the banks of Lake Alexandrina and has an important place in the history of the River Murray. The jetty was integral to this history. Nowadays, the jetty is mainly used for fishing. It still has the 1859 erected hand crane which was used to load the boats which plied Lake Alexandrina's waters then to make their way up the Murray River with goods and supplies. The area adjacent to the jetty has been developed as a community and visitor resource. The lawned area has a barbeque area, seating and toilets with a large car park next to the park. This park also serves the boat ramps.

Milang SA

36 km away

Milang Railway Museum — Image credit: Milang Railway Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Milang Railway Museum

The Milang Railway Museum is a small, charming museum located on the shores of Lake Alexandrina in Milang, just an hour south of Adelaide. It is open from 12 PM to 4 PM on weekends, and entry is free. The museum is enjoyable for both families and railway enthusiasts and features interactive displays. Visitors can try driving diesel and steam locomotive simulators, as well as explore model trains. Free train rides are offered every ten minutes. On Sundays, the museum provides lunches, including AUD6 Devonshire teas and other refreshments. Additionally, home-cooked group lunches can be arranged by appointment on weekdays for AUD22 per person.

Milang SA

36 km away

Milang Lakeside Butter Factory — Image credit: Karyn Bradford

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Milang Lakeside Butter Factory

The Milang Lakeside Butter Factory is a hidden gem! Learn about the factory's past, which dates back to 1893 and its significance in the region's dairy industry. Explore the museum showcasing vintage dairy equipment, photographs, and stories from the factory's heyday. Enjoy stunning views of Lake Alexandrina while taking a leisurely walk or having a picnic. Discover local artisans and craftspeople selling handmade goods, such as jewellery, pottery, and textiles. Free Live Music and entertainment. Savor delicious food, coffee, and treats at the on-site café, using fresh local ingredients. Sample the handcrafted wines from Kanoetree Wines and team them with a cheese platter while enjoying the lake vista from the front deck. Attend workshops, exhibitions, and festivals hosted at the factory, celebrating local talent and culture. Find one-of-a-kind souvenirs, gifts, and mementos in the factory's shops and market stalls. Engage in activities suitable for all ages, making it an excellent destination for families. By visiting, you're contributing to the preservation of local history and the support of local businesses, artisans and musicians. The Milang Lakeside Butter Factory offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Milang, South Australia.

Milang SA

36 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

37 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

38 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

39 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

40 km away

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

40 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

40 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

40 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

40 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

40 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

41 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

41 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

41 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

41 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

41 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

41 km away

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