Coorong National Park

Stretching 130 kilometres along the coast southeast of Adelaide, Coorong National Park is a mesmerising landscape of sweeping sand dunes, shimmering lagoons and teeming birdlife. This narrow strip of protected coastline, wedged between the Southern Ocean and the vast Lake Alexandrina, offers a raw, elemental beauty that feels a world away from city life. Whether you’re kayaking through silent waterways, spotting pelicans and swans, or simply watching the sunset paint the lagoons in hues of gold and pink, the Coorong delivers a quintessentially Australian nature experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Pelican spotting at the Coorong Lagoon – The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with thousands of pelicans, black swans and migratory waders making the lagoons their home. Bring binoculars and a camera.
• Drive the Coorong Scenic Drive – This 130 km route from Goolwa to Kingston SE hugs the coastline, with frequent lookouts and walking trails. Stop at Salt Creek for a short boardwalk through the dunes.
• Kayak or canoe on the Coorong – Paddle the calm, shallow lagoons for an intimate encounter with the park’s wildlife and silence. Rentals are available at Meningie or Goolwa.
• Walk the Younghusband Peninsula dunes – The massive sand dunes that separate the ocean from the lagoons are a striking feature. A short hike up offers panoramic views of the entire park.
• Visit the historic Coorong Homestead – This restored 1860s stone building gives a glimpse into early European settlement and Aboriginal history in the region.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day driving the scenic route and stopping at key points, but to truly soak in the atmosphere and do a kayak or walk, plan for two days. Overnight in Meningie or at one of the park’s basic campgrounds (no facilities) to catch sunrise over the lagoons. If you’re short on time, a half-day from Adelaide (about 2 hours drive) can cover the northern section with a walk and birdwatching.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Goolwa – The historic river port at the mouth of the Murray River, with a lively café scene and the starting point for Coorong tours.
• Murray River – The mighty Murray flows into Lake Alexandrina just north of the park; combine a river cruise or houseboat stay with your Coorong visit.
• Adelaide – The gateway city offers world-class food and wine, and is an easy 2-hour drive from the park’s northern entrance.
• Kangaroo Island – A ferry from Cape Jervis (near Goolwa) takes you to this wildlife-rich island, perfect for a longer South Australian road trip.
• Limestone Coast – Head southeast from Kingston SE to explore the wine regions of Coonawarra and the volcanic landscapes of Mount Gambier.

Please check official sources for current details.