Adventure | Beach | Family 04 July 2016

Wildlife Watching in Glenelg

When you think Australian beaches you may be forgiven for not thinking of Glenelg. Situated in the South Australian region better known more for its wines than sun-tans, the charming seaside suburb of Glenelg, whilst popular with locals, is relatively unknown outside South Australia offering many delightful experiences the rest of Australia are yet to discover. 

Just 12km from the heart of Adelaide, where the city meets the sea, a myriad of swimming, fishing, shopping and dining options await. Walk on water as you make your way down the picturesque Glenelg Pier, or step off the sand and take in the relaxing waterfront vistas at one of the many alfresco restaurants that line the foreshore. Full of coastal character and charm, the multitude of boutique cafes in Glenelg are known for their specialty coffee and pooch-loving policies with our favourite being Pure Boutique, who from time to time have hosted guest appearances from international roasters, so you know their coffee is on point!

However, if you’re the type of travellers and holiday makers that like to get outdoors there is an abundance of wildlife, kilometres of beaches and islands to explore. With everything from sea eagle spotting tours to otter watching to daily sailing trips with the friendly dolphins or a trip to Kangaroo Island the region is a haven for fauna. Here's our top two must-do's:

1. Swim With Wild Dolphins

Temptation Sailing operate short cruises from the Marina at Glenelg making a quick trip out on the water to see the playful dolphins and cheeky otters, both an accessible, leisurely pursuit and a once in a lifetime experience to get up close and personal. You don't have to travel too far from shore to find these incredible creatures and while you jump in the water with your wet suits and snorkels the crew assist by shouting out what direction to look in. The friendly fellows can get within arms reach and although you cannot touch them for environmental reasons (they are wild dolphins after all) it is an amazing Australian adventure that everyone should experience. You can choose to get in among the pods of wild dolphins or stay on the boat for a birds eye view of the animals, depending on how you feel. To book https://temptationsailing.rezdy.com/

2. Tour Kangaroo Island

Often described as one of the last unspoiled animal sanctuaries on earth, Kangaroo Island boasts stunning, untouched landscapes teeming with wildlife. A must-do when in South Australia, the island is a 30 minute flight south of Glenelg or less than 2 and a half hours by car and ferry, as this tour takes a little longer, so allocate a whole day to get the most out of the experience. There is no public transport on the island so you will need to self-drive or jump on a coach tour. However once you set foot on the island it will be worth every second to see the koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas and birdlife, not to mention the unforgettable Seal Bay Conservation Park where you can walk along the beach with Australian sea lions. Read some more travel tips from Kangaroo Island visitors here https://www.kangarooisland.com.au/ 

There are plenty of accommodation options at Glenelg, but Oaks Hotels & Resorts boast two properties in premier positions you cannot go past, Oaks Plaza Pier and Oaks Liberty Towers. Both  just steps from the sand with stunning ocean vistas and a variety of different apartment sizes to choose from they are ideal for family and group travel.