Holiday houses in Port Noarlunga

Port Noarlunga is a seaside village at the mouth of Onkaparinga River, just 45 minutes south of Adelaide. The town is most famous for its heritage-listed reef and aquatic reserve, which forms part of Encounter Marine Park — a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Regular low tides expose the reef, resulting in a safe and easily accessible natural area for travelers who stick to the shore as well. The reef is home to more than 200 species of aquatic plants and an abundance of fish, which makes for truly enriching wildlife spotting.

The town is also known for its striking wooden jetty that extends over the beach in the direction of the reef. Port Noarlunga’s main thoroughfare features several historic buildings, including Sauerbier House, a Victorian-style limestone structure that sat in disrepair for decades before being reborn as an arts centre and gallery. Today it sits among a handful of gift shops, clothing boutiques, and casual restaurants.

Spring and autumn are pleasant times to book your Port Noarlunga accommodations, when the days are sunny and perfect for enjoying the outdoors. Although winter doesn’t bring snow, it can get chilly in the evenings. In November, the town comes to life with the Port Noarlunga Blues Festival, which attracts a wide range of local and national artists for a weekend of blues and roots music. If your visit is all about time at the beach, then summer will offer up hot days and warm nights, and the town’s main swimming beach is patrolled by the lifeguards.

Port Noarlunga Jetty and Reef

Snorkel at one of Australia’s most accessible reefs right below the town’s wooden jetty. Beginners can enter from the shore under the jetty and explore the pylons and shallow southern reef, while more advanced adventurers can head out beyond the jetty and along the reef via a set of stairs. There are also guided snorkelling tours and lessons for those looking to enhance the experience even further.

Onkaparinga Estuary

Take a walk or cycle along the Onkaparinga Estuary, which stretches 10 kilometres from Port Noarlunga. The estuary has boardwalks that allow you to comfortably meander along as you try to spot local plants like wattles and eucalypts as well as an array of wildlife. There are also many places to stop and take a break with barbecues and picnic tables.

Onkaparinga River National Park

At this nearby national park, great for its scenic bushwalking, you’re likely to spot koalas in trees and grazing kangaroos. Experienced hikers can take the more daring path over to the Onkaparinga Gorge for rewarding views, but make sure you have the proper footwear as it can get quite rocky. Campgrounds, picnic areas, barbecues are available, and fishing and kayaking are also permitted in the river.