Coorong National Park

Stretching 140 kilometres along the South Australian coast, Coorong National Park is a mesmerising landscape of shimmering lagoons, windswept dunes, and teeming birdlife. This slender ribbon of saltwater and sand is a sanctuary for pelicans, swans, and migratory waders, and its ancient Ngarrindjeri heritage adds a profound cultural layer. Whether you're kayaking through the backwaters, spotting wildlife from the beach, or simply soaking in the stark beauty, the Coorong offers a raw, untamed escape from the beaten track.

Highlights & What to See

• Pelican Feeding at Salt Creek: Watch dozens of pelicans gather at the jetty for a daily feed – a quirky but unforgettable spectacle.
• Younghusband Peninsula: Walk the immense sand dunes that separate the Coorong from the Southern Ocean; the views are endless.
• Ngarrindjeri Cultural Tours: Join a local guide to learn about traditional fishing, weaving, and Dreaming stories that have shaped this land for millennia.
• Birdwatching on the Coorong: Spot over 240 species, including the rare orange-bellied parrot and vast flocks of black swans and pelicans.
• Canoeing or Kayaking: Paddle the calm, mirror-like lagoons for a quiet encounter with the park’s wildlife and reflections.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself at least a full day to explore the park’s length. Arrive early to catch the morning bird activity, then spend the middle of the day walking the dunes or taking a cultural tour. If you can, stay overnight in a coastal shack or campground to experience the sunset over the lagoons and the dawn chorus of birds. Two days allows you to kayak one day and explore the southern end the next.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Meningie: A small lakeside town with a cheese factory and great views of Lake Albert.
• Goolwa: Historic river port at the Murray Mouth, with paddle steamers and a lively food scene.
• Murray River National Park: Further inland, offering river cruises and abundant wildlife.
• Kingston SE: Home to the iconic Big Lobster and lovely beaches.
• Limestone Coast: Wine regions, volcanic cones, and the World Heritage-listed Naracoorte Caves – a longer detour but well worth it.

Please check official sources for current details.