Wirrina Cove

Wirrina Cove lies in the southern part of the Fleurieu Peninsula, close to the coast. There are several ways to experience the area: an important coastal trail, activities at Marina St Vincent, fishing, golf and discoveries on the beach at low tide. Which of these appeals to you most can help you decide whether Wirrina Cove is the right holiday destination for you.

Coastal landscape and Kaurna history

The Tjilbruke Dreaming Trail is an important coastal trail that stretches from Marino Rocks near Adelaide to Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Coast. Its name refers to Tjilbruke, a Kaurna man who appeared in the Kaurna Dreaming, which dates back around 11,000 years. The trail therefore connects a long stretch of coastline with a story that belongs to Kaurna culture.

If you are interested in walking and cultural connections, this trail offers a different way to experience the region than a day on the water. Its length, from Marino Rocks to Cape Jervis, makes clear that it is a coastal trail covering a considerable distance. Wirrina Cove can be considered a destination in the southern part of the Fleurieu Peninsula without conflating the entire route of the trail with the town.

Marina, diving and fishing

Marina St Vincent has a public boat ramp. Diving trips to the wreck of the ex-HMAS Hobart also depart from here. The ship was sunk off Wirrina Cove to create an artificial dive reef.

Fishing is another focus. Fleurieu Fishing Charters departs from Wirrina Cove for full-day fishing trips in Backstairs Passage, south of Kangaroo Island. These trips are different from diving at the wreck and offer another waterside option for your stay. If your travel group has varied interests, you can weigh up these activities separately, depending on whether you would rather go diving or plan a day of fishing.

Golf and the beach at low tide

At BreakFree Wirrina Cove Resort, an 18-hole golf course offers panoramic views over St Vincent Gulf. The number of holes and the view over the gulf give this activity a clear appeal for anyone who wants to include golf in their trip. Alongside the waterside activities, it is another distinct option in Wirrina Cove.

At low tide, Lady Bay Beach offers opportunities for catching crabs, collecting shells, searching for stones and surf fishing. These activities depend on the timing of the tide. The beach offers a different kind of discovery from a diving trip or fishing excursion: the focus is on searching and collecting along the shore, as well as surf fishing. When planning your day, consider whether you would like to time your beach visit for low tide.

Which side of Wirrina Cove is right for your trip?

More places to discover: Myponga, Sellicks Hill, Torrens Vale, Yankalilla, Normanville, Cape Jervis and Bald Hills.

For the broader travel guide: District Council of Yankalilla.