Hello SA families! Spring is here, and it’s time to swap jumpers for swimmers and rediscover our stunning coastline. Whether you're city-based or exploring regional gems, these 10 top beaches in South Australia are ideal for family fun—with all the must-haves: toilets, shade, parking, lifeguards, and nearby snacks.
Why it’s the people’s beach: It’s close to the city, loaded with eateries, and perfect for a full day of family fun. Don’t miss the jetty and the epic playground right by the water.
Facilities: Toilets, playground, restaurants, tram access, parking
Best for: Day trips, pram walks, and grabbing fish & chips on the lawn
Why it’s a coastal treasure: Less hectic than Glenelg but still bursting with charm. Calm waves, shaded foreshore, and top cafés just a short walk away.
Facilities: Toilets, cafés, BBQs, shaded areas, parking
Best for: Café-loving parents and sunset strolls
Why kids adore it: Shallow waves, wide sandy shores, and a seaside amusement park in summer. There’s also a huge grassy reserve with a playground.
Facilities: Toilets, playground, kiosk, BBQs, parking
Best for: Multi-kid families and picnic-packed beach days
Why it’s unique: Drive right onto the beach and park near your spot—perfect when you’ve got babies, gear, and hungry teens.
Facilities: Toilets, parking on beach, cafés nearby
Best for: Easy-access beach days with lots of gear
Why it’s peaceful: Beautiful, broad, and calm with crystal water and reefy spots to explore. Bonus: drive-on access.
Facilities: Toilets, parking, picnic areas, cafes nearby
Best for: Low-stress days and reef walks at low tide
Why it's ideal for families: Safe swimming zone, long jetty for fish-spotting, and the reef makes for perfect snorkelling with older kids.
Facilities: Lifeguards, toilets, cafés, parking
Best for: Snorkellers, jetty jumpers and little explorers
Why it’s low-key fab: Clean, calm waters, with a reserve right behind the beach and a great café just up the road.
Facilities: Toilets, BBQs, cafés, parking
Best for: Uncrowded afternoons and sandy snacks
Why it’s worth the drive: An ideal weekend escape, this beach has it all—clear water, a jetty, playground and even horse rides along the sand.
Facilities: Toilets, café, playground, parking
Best for: Getaways and unique family memories
Why surfers love it: Gentle surf and space to boogie board or learn to ride a wave. Clean sand and long stretches perfect for digging and flying kites.
Facilities: Toilets, parking, surf school nearby
Best for: Tweens, wave-lovers, and windy day fun
Why it’s a hidden gem: Another drive-on beach with fewer crowds, soft sand, and that beautiful southern coastline vibe.
Facilities: Toilets, parking on beach, picnic areas
Best for: Peaceful play, sandcastle sessions and long beach walks
No matter how cool the breeze feels, UV levels soar in SA during spring and summer. We love a good sunhat and rashie, but when it’s time to pause and picnic or change a nappy in peace, shade is a lifesaver.
Grab your SunPlay Pop-Up Beach Tent—it’s lightweight, super easy to use, and gives your family a breezy little beach hub for snack breaks and naps. Because sun safety = fun safety!
