Which SA Tourism gems gets your vote?
The search is on for South Australia’s Top Tourism Town, and you’ve been chosen as the Judge! In fact, by casting a vote for your most treasured town, in the list of top 12 finalists, you could even be rewarded for your effort.
An initiative of the Tourism Industry Council of South Australia (TICSA) and Hello SA, the awards recognise towns that offer amazing visitor experiences and are committed to developing tourism in the region.
So which SA gems made the cut for the People’s Choice Award?
Ardrossan
Ardrossan ticks plenty of boxes, with rugged cliffs and ocean views, a jetty for a spot of fishing and a bakery brimming with homemade pastries and the ever-faithful custard slice.
Kim, from Catch n Cook World Tour, offers crabbing adventures for the whole family. Watch your little hunters and gatherers rake for crabs in the crystal-clear shallows, before dining on the delicious Gulf St Vincent catch for dinner.
Ardrossan is a short drive to Barley Stacks Winery and Sunny Hill Distillery and the gateway to the stunning Southern Yorke Peninsula.
Burra
Step back in time to where history whispers through the streets of Burra. Take the trails to discover the town’s rich Cornish mining heritage, savour local flavours, marvel at the heritage architecture and embrace the warmth of the Mid North community.
There’s lots to see and do in beautiful Burra. Grab the keys to the town and unlock eleven National Heritage Listed sites, visit the Art Gallery and browse the charming Main Street, complete with the baker, butcher and a variety of unique shops well worth a browse. With four pubs in town, there’s no shortage of watering holes, and speaking of watering holes, Burra Creek Gorge is among the many natural wonder to see around Burra.
Coober Pedy
It’s quite literally one of the World’s most extraordinary gems, and if you haven’t made the trek to the outback town of Cooper Pedy, pop it on your bucket list!
Hidden deep within the South Australian outback, its lunar-like terrain beckons explorers to a world of unparalleled adventure. Delve into the underground wonders, where churches and homes lie carved into the earth, and uncover the riches of opal mining.
Coober Pedy welcomes visitors anytime, but next month’s Opal Festival will be the ultimate showcase of what the unique underground town has to offer.
Coffin Bay
Discover Coffin Bay, a gem on the southwestern edge of the Eyre Peninsula, perfect for the discerning traveller with an interest in exploring the natural environment whilst sampling the freshest, local produce from its pristine waters.
This tranquil haven promises a serene escape, featuring sheltered bays, empty white sand beaches, and the untouched coastal bushland rich with wildlife.
Taste the iconic Coffin Bay oyster, fresh from the water, and learn about the salt water ‘basket to plate’ process. On the October long-weekend, Australia’s Oyster Capital, celebrates with an incredibly well-organised Oyster Fest, well-worth hitting the road and checking out for yourself.
Hawker
In the picturesque Flinders Ranges, Hawker epitomizes rugged outback beauty. The humble town boasts a big heart and a warm welcome for visitors, with stunning landscapes, including the captivating Ikara Flinders Ranges National Park.
Whether you’re hiking through ancient gorges, exploring Aboriginal rock art sites, or stargazing under clear desert skies, Hawker offers an authentic outback experience.
Its laid-back atmosphere and rich cultural heritage makes it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. Hawker offers a peaceful retreat from city life and a draw card for international travel.
Langhorne Creek
Langhorne Creek is a dynamic habitat where flowing rivers and creeks reach into vital lake systems and the pristine Southern Ocean.
Home to the traditional Ngarrindjeri nation, Langhorne Creek is a thriving agricultural community of established families, progressive businesses and new generation artisans create highly rewarded wines, grow quality fruit, prized livestock and a range of sought-after farm produce.
Visitors to Langhorne Creek are spoilt with choice when it comes to the abundance of wineries, including Bleasdale, Lake Breeze, Bremerton and Kimbolton Wines.
The scenery is lush, the accommodation offerings are abundant and the burgers at the iconic Langhorne Creek General Store, ensure visitors return!
Mintaro
Mintaro is the jewel in the crown of the Clare Valley. Remarkably well preserved and a rare example of an early colonial rural town and declared a State Heritage Area in 1984.
Mintaro opens its doors to those who want world class epicurean experiences in a quaint and intimate setting, with lush rolling hills and a mix of vineyards and open grain growing fields.
Port Lincoln
You definitely need more than a weekender in Port Lincoln, On the Southern tip of the Eyre Peninsula, the vibrant coastal town is known for its stunning landscapes and thriving seafood industry.
Surrounded by crystal clear waters, it’s a haven for aquatic enthusiasts offering world-class fishing, pristine beaches, and up-close encounters with dolphins and sea lions. For thrill seekers, this is one of the few places in the world that you can experience shark-cage diving!
Port Pirie
Crowned the Best Grey Nomad Experience in South Australia, the historic Spencer Gulf seaport town is known for its rich history and being a service centre for the Southern Flinders Ranges.
Explore a range of museums, galleries, heritage walks, and cultural trails, as well as the towns stunning parks and gardens, cycling trails, and excellent shopping and dining experiences.
Visit Shakka the Great White Shark – a 5.5 metre replica of a local legend that quickly became part of Port Pirie’s history in 1998. Try virtual reality shark cage diving, visit the Art Gallery, or head down to Solomontown Beach for some of the town’s famous hot chips from Happy Birds Chicken shop. At dark, enjoy the City Park Projection Light Show each night until 10pm.
Prospect
Victor Harbor
The vibrant, creative heart of the Fleurieu, Victor Harbor is brimming with life and culture, coastal views and plenty to see and do. Jump on board the famous Cockle Train, take a horse-drawn carriage over to Granite Island
Kickstart your Victor Harbor odyssey with a feast for the senses at Nino’s or Wood, nestled in the heart of the town. Let a hearty breakfast and aromatic coffee fuel your day before you amble through Warland Reserve, greeting the whale tail fountain as you venture towards the Granite Island Causeway.
Victor Harbor was named Top Tourism Town in 2023 as well as being crowned the People’s Choice winner.
Willunga
From mouth-watering food to refreshing beer and exquisite wineries, you’ll find everything you need at Willunga, which is a stone’s throw away from McLaren Vale.
A town where history and heritage blend perfectly with hipster vibes, Willunga boasts some cool gift stores and galleries, excellent food and wine, complimented by stunning views and friendly locals.
Which SA Tourism town gets your vote?
Vote for your favourite town before Sunday May 19, for your chance to with a $500 voucher to an SA Council-owned Caravan Park, thanks to the Local Government Association of South Australia.
To view the towns and cast your vote click here.
