Southern Ocean Drive | South Australia Road Trip Itinerary

There are lots of incredible road trips in South Australia, like the rugged journey from Port Augusta to Ceduna and the scenic Adelaide to the Eyre Peninsula road trip. But for a truly diverse experience, the Southern Ocean Drive offers something special. This coastal route takes you from the Limestone Coast's natural wonders through the vineyards and seaside charm of the Fleurieu Peninsula, finishing with the untouched wilderness of Kangaroo Island. With stunning ocean views, unique landscapes, and world-class food and wine, the Southern Ocean Drive is a must-do!

Road Trip South Australia: Fast Facts

Time: ~18 hrs
Distance: ~1320 km
Nearest major city: Adelaide

South Australia Road Trips: 6-Day Itinerary Summary

Day 1: Adelaide to Mt Gambier
Day 2: Mount Gambier to Robe
Day 3: Robe to Victor Harbor
Day 4: Victor Harbor to Kangaroo Island: Sc
Day 5: Kangaroo Island to McLaren Vale
Day 6: McLaren Vale to Adelaide

Essential Checklist for Travel in South Australia

Download useful camping apps
Follow a packing checklist
Top up water and petrol at major towns
Plan your route to include rest stops
Bring essential emergency gear and repair kits
Confirm your caravan park bookings in advance

Experience Another Epic South Australia Road Trip

Spend six amazing days on the Southern Ocean Drive, exploring the region's coastlines, vineyards, and natural wonders.

Day 1: Adelaide to Mt Gambier: Captivating Caves & A Super-Sized Lobster

Distance: ~435 km
Allow: ~5 hrs
Stay: Pine Country Caravan Park
Bonus RV Tip: If you've got time, take a detour to Lochiel to see the pink salt lake—there's a free overnight camp spot in the area!

After leaving Adelaide, your first stop is McLaren Vale, a 45-minute drive away. This is a must-visit destination for foodies and wine enthusiasts. Also, don't miss the d'Arenberg Cube, a striking five-storey architectural gem that showcases art exhibits, offers wine tastings, and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding region.

Next, make your way to Kingston SE, a laid-back seaside town known for its relaxed vibe and iconic "Big Lobster", affectionately known as Larry. (In case you're wondering, the 'SE' stands for South East, which was added to distinguish it from another town called Kingston in SA). Kingston is also a fantastic place to enjoy freshly caught seafood.

Continue on to Robe, where you can enjoy a scenic walk or browse the boutique stores. The World Heritage-listed Naracoorte Caves National Park is a worthwhile detour off the inland route. Take a fascinating guided tour through underground chambers filled with stalactites and fossil remains.

Day 2: Mount Gambier to Robe: Sunken Gardens & World-class Wines

Distance: ~130 km
Allow: ~1.5 hrs
Stay: Robe Holiday Park
Bonus RV Tip: The drive from Mount Gambier to Robe hugs parts of the scenic Limestone Coast, so reduce speed around tight bends.

Mount Gambier is the beginning of the Southern Ocean Drive, and it's a geological wonderland. The famous Blue Lake was once an active volcano, but today it is a 72-metre-deep lake filled with cobalt blue water. Its lesser-known little cousin (Little Blue Lake) is equally impressive, plus you can dive right into its depths. Its natural wonders continue in the town's centre, where you can explore the Umpherston Sinkhole, affectionately known as the Sunken Garden. If you're a qualified diver, head to the Kilsby Sinkhole, renowned for its exceptional visibility, making it one of the best diving sites in Australia.

The ultimate destination for lovers of bold reds, the Coonawarra wine region produces world-famous shiraz and cabernet sauvignon. More than 25 cellar doors are in the relatively small region, so be sure to do some wine tasting and then grab some takeaways for the journey ahead. Further along the drive is Tantanoola Cave, which is thousands of years old and breathtaking!

Day 3: Robe to Victor Harbor: Wetland Wildlife & Breaching Humpbacks

Distance: ~360 km
Allow: ~4 hrs
Stay: Victor Harbor Holiday Park
Bonus RV Tip: This route includes some winding country roads—be careful around bends and watch for oncoming traffic.

On this leg of your journey, visit Coroong National Park, where you can walk along snow-white sandy beaches, explore towering sand dunes, and meander down quiet waterways. Stretching over 130 km from the Limestone Coast to the Fleurieu Peninsula, it encompasses saltwater lagoons and wetlands brimming with wildlife. (If you love the Australian film, Storm Boy, you'll recognise it!)

Close by is the home of some of the oldest recorded cabernet sauvignon vines in the world at Langhorne Creek. Here, sprawling vineyards and ancient gum trees line lush river banks. Your next stop is Victor Harbor, a holiday town known for its penguin colony, surf beaches, and horse-drawn tram. If you happen to be here in May and October, you might even see humpback and southern right whales frolicking in the waters between Victor Harbour and Goolwa.

Nearby is also the seaside town of Port Elliot, where you'll discover cafes, homewares shops, and some of the best South Australian beaches, including family-friendly Horseshoe Bay and surfer lovers' Boomer Beach.

Day 4: Victor Harbor to Kangaroo Island: Scenic Drives & Friendly Fur Seals

Distance: ~170 km
Allow: ~3 hrs
Stay: Kingscote Tourist Park
Bonus RV Tip: Check your RV length and weight limits for the ferry, as many have specific size and weight restrictions.

From the edge of the mainland in Victor Harbor, it's time to hop over to Kangaroo Island. Along the way, continue down the coastline to Deep Creek National Park, which boasts walking trails, waterfalls and wildlife. Leave enough time for your ferry trip, though, because Kangaroo Island is a nature-lover's paradise packed with native wildlife, stunning coastlines, and epic outdoor adventures.

Start your exploration at Flinders Chase National Park, where you can explore the iconic Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. For up-close encounters of long-nosed fur seals, visit Seal Bay Conservation Park, where guided beach walks will bring you even closer.

Adventure seekers can snorkel or kayak at Vivonne Bay, and kangaroos, koalas and echidnas are waiting for spotting!

Day 5: Kangaroo Island to McLaren Vale: Endless Wine Tasting

Distance: ~180 km
Allow: ~3.5 hrs
Stay: McLaren Vale Lakeside Caravan Park
Bonus RV Tip: Drive via Willunga Hill for spectacular vineyard views, but be careful if you're towing, as the descent is steep with tight corners.

After a few wild and wonderful days on Kangaroo Island, it's time to head back to the mainland for one of South Australia's most iconic wine regions—McLaren Vale. The road from Cape Jervis winds through the Fleurieu Peninsula, with steep sections and narrow curves.

As you approach McLaren Vale, the landscape shifts from coastal bushland to lush vineyards and rolling hills. If you're feeling adventurous, take the route via Willunga Hill, with its panoramic views.

Once in McLaren Vale, you'll find boutique wineries and incredible food. Many cellar doors welcome RV visitors, but it's best to call ahead for parking info. Settle in and enjoy a relaxed pace as you explore the region's world-class shiraz, coastal trails, and gourmet experiences.

Day 6: McLaren Vale to Adelaide: A Sunset Finale

Distance: ~45 km
Allow: ~1 hr
Stay: In Adelaide
Bonus RV Tip: Use the Southern Expressway (M2) for a smoother drive with wider lanes—ideal for towing caravans.

After soaking up the vineyard views and gourmet flavours of McLaren Vale, it's time to head north back to Adelaide. The drive is a short one—around 45 minutes—but there are still a few sites worth visiting before you get there. Make time to stop at Port Noarlunga, a coastal gem known for its long jetty, reef snorkelling, and relaxed seaside vibe. There's a large foreshore area perfect for a picnic or a coffee break.

Another worthwhile detour is Onkaparinga River National Park, located just east of Port Noarlunga. This lesser-known park offers clifftop hikes, native bushland, and panoramic views of the Onkaparinga Gorge. For those wanting a short but rewarding walk, the Punchbowl Lookout trail is a top pick—especially at sunset.

References:

SouthAustralia.com (2023), Southern Ocean Drive Road Trip, SouthAustralia.com article, accessed 25 Sep 2025