Top 10 Things To Do In Goolwa

31 March, 2015

Top 10 Things To Do In Goolwa

Goolwa is a historic riverside town on the mouth of the Murray River in South Australia.

There are plenty of activities and attractions in Goolwa to satisfy all interests – read on to discover our list of Top 10 Things To Do in Goolwa:

1. Kayaking

Fleurieu Adventures can show you the sights as you experience a 2-hour or full-day kayak adventure on the Coorong - home to many bird species and marine animals. 

2. Goolwa River Boat Centre

Situated in the Goolwa Wharf Shed that was used as a loading station for goods on the paddle steamers, it houses historic photos, memorabilia and boat models that show the importance of the River Murray System. 

You can even step on-board the ‘Oscar W’, a paddle steamer berthed right outside.

3. The Cockle Train

Board this heritage train for a scenic rail journey from Goolwa to Victor Harbor.

If you time your trip on the first or third Sunday of each month, the Goolwa Market is right adjacent to the station so you can browse the market before or after your rail journey and grab some snacks as there are no refreshments sold on the train.

4. Surfing

Goolwa has a popular surf beach that is used for surfing, body boarding, and swimming.

If you fancy trying your luck with the waves, get in touch with Surf & Sun who can arrange fun and exciting surf lessons in Goolwa that include wetsuit, rash top, surfboard and expert instruction from accredited surf coaches.

5.  Boat cruises

Cruise through the Barrage Lock and across the Murray River Mouth into the Coorong National Park with the ‘Spirit of the Coorong’.

Here, you can see wetlands, birdlife, white sand dunes and learn about the Aboriginal and European history of the area via an informative on-board commentary.

It’s a great way to soak up the local scenery as you enjoy a guided walk, lunch or afternoon tea.

6.  Goolwa Motor Museum

This private collection of 45 cars and memorabilia dating from the 1920’s upwards will satisfy any car enthusiast or racing fan.

7.  Coorong National Park

A protected area since 1966, the Coorong National Park is home to many birds such as Stilts and Oystercatchers. There are also animals and fish species that inhabit coastal sand dunes, vegetation and lagoons.

8.  Jet ski hire

Thrill-seekers can get some adrenalin in their day by hiring jet skis on the Murray River – book through Fleurieu Adventures; no boat license is required so you can get out on the water immediately.

9.  River Boat Trail

In the late 19^th and early 20^th century, the Murray River was a paddle steamer thoroughfare where settlers could exchange supplies and mail between towns.

The River Boat Trail is a series of 18 information panels along the South Australian section of the Murray River where you can learn about the people, ports and shipwrecks that formed part of the Murray River highway.

10.  Hindmarsh Island

An easily accessible island near Goolwa, Hindmarsh Island is a popular spot for tourists who visit for boating, bird watching, fishing, Narnu Farm, walking trails and mountain biking.