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When people go to the beach in Australia, some of the things they can expect are large crowds, heat, sand in the most unpleasant of places and overpriced everything from water bottles to food. But maybe that’s not how it has it be!
Would it shock you if I said that there are deserted, abandoned and SECRET beaches in Australia?! I found some great ones in South Australia. The kind of beaches where you’ll absolutely never see an ice-cream van.
These are the kind of beaches where you can get away from the crowds and noise. Nobody will accidentally kick sand on you, clumsily crush your lovingly-crafted sandcastle or steal your belongings while you’re in the sea, because, well, there probably won’t be anybody else around.
The secret beaches in South Australia are well off the beaten path. But if you do manage to visit one you’ll be rewarded with stunning scenery and nature. You get to see the ocean like never before and swim in clearer waters. Not to mention, the absolutely perfect photo opportunities!!
So which secret beaches should you visit in South Australia? Allow me to help you with that one!
South Australia Secret Beaches

Maslin Beach
Declared as the first nude beach in Australia in 1975, Maslin beach is an excellent place for a skinny dip. The nude beach is 3km long and is signposted so you can stay clear away from it if you prefer to swim with your clothes on.
It also has rugged cliffs with a breathtaking view, as well as incredibly soft sand. No need for “thongs” here. Maslin Beach has also previously been voted one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia. After a day at the beach, you can head down to the many shops located nearby for some great local food.
Port Willunga
Seaside scenery, greenery, and old ruins. Sound good? If these are things you enjoy, then Port Willunga is the place to go. It’s a relatively short drive from Adelaide, and you’ll have plenty of room to move and space to breath. Plus, if you’re into photography there are some beautiful shots to be taken here.
Hallett Cove
An underrated beach, Hallett Cove is seen to have a rough, rocky exterior that makes it unappealing to a lot of people at first glance. But don’t let that exterior fool you. Hallett Cove is best known for its clifftop views and grassy areas that offer the perfect spot for a picnic or a barbecue party with your mates.
The cove is also home to the Boatshed Café, which provides a unique take on serving their food. I’m not saying anymore, I’ll let you look into that one yourself 😉 Or be surprised when you visit!
Myponga Beach
This beach is particularly suited to nature lovers. Myponga Beach features wetlands and grassy areas perfect for camping. The best part is that the area is mostly secluded, offering some privacy, peace and quiet and a chance to relax and get away from the busy pace of life.
The ruins of the old jetty make for a nice photo opp (you can tell my priorities). You can pick up some snacks on your way to the campsite in the town of Myponga. Don’t forget to try out their local pastries as they are perfect snacks for the drive.
Sellicks Beach
This beach is bigger than most of the other mentioned above. It sprawls out, seemingly endless, with barely a person in sight. Go for a swim or a surf in the clear blue waters, or relax, sunbathe and read a nice book in peace.
It is also one of the few beaches that let people drive along the beach and park their cars on the sand. As far as I know this is free for residents but non-residents have to pay a small fee.
Public Service Announcement

Beaches are great for a weekend or summer getaway. But please remember to always clean up after yourself as these shores have always maintained their cleanliness through the kind consideration of past visitors who have all learned to clean up after themselves.
Let us continue this tradition to keep these beaches looking pristine and fun to visit. PLUS, we don’t want any poor wildlife eating out rubbish/trash and getting sick or dying, do we?! No, good!
How to Get There
Of course, the only way to reach the above beaches is by driving. Or maybe seaplane….. but I wouldn’t count on it, and it’s a lot more effort let me tell you 😉 If you don’t have a vehicle of your own, you can always find a reliable car rental in Adelaide Airport for a reasonable fee.
Remember to book in advance so that you can have a car waiting for you as soon as your plane arrives in Adelaide. And don’t worry about driving in Australia, the only thing you need to watch out for are the kangaroos!
Have you got a favourite beach in Australia?
Have you ever visited any of these secret beaches in South Australia?
Let me know in the comments.
Recommended Reading
– A Girl’s Guide to Travelling Australia Solo
– There’s More Than a Wizard in Oz – Must-See Sights/Landmarks in Australia
– Horse-Riding in Byron Bay, Australia
– Fun Facts About Australia for Visitors from the UK
– Best Ways to Enjoy Luxury in Sydney
Hi Tara,
We were amazed at long stretches of pristine beaches in Australia. On our way to Port Douglas, there were many that were empty of people. Once we found someone we could ask about it, they explained it was “stingy” season, as in stinging jellyfish, the kind that can put you in the hospital. So be careful, ask the locals to be sure the jellyfish are somewhere other than that beautiful empty beach.
Or just stay on the sand!
Australia is most famous destination for its beaches and good post you shared about south australia beaches. Thanks for sharing hidden beaches of australia.
Hi Tara, thanks for the great travel tips, the reviews, and the hints, including the secret beaches in South Australia.
Pictures are really excellent also.
It certainly helps when we can read a blog such as yours, and be guided by it. Many adventures to be had by all.
Cheers Sharon…
My mother and brother were actually just in Australia and went to visit Hallett Cove on a local’s suggestion and they were floored with the views there! I love finding places like this where people often would flock to Bondi Beach or something, it’s nice to know Australia still has some hidden gems! Sunsets at the beach are such an incredible experience, especially if you’re the only ones there (which is more likely to happen at a more remote beach like these ones!)
Thanks for sharing – and it’s awesome that you included the tip about picking up after yourself and keeping the beaches clean – responsible tourism win!
Wow there are a lot of secret beaches. Would love to visit those beaches someday. just looking at the photos, i’m already excited.