Glenelg is by far one of the most popular Adelaide beaches, and we can see why. Not too far from the Adelaide CBD, Glenelg is just a tram ride away. The main road that runs adjacent to Glenelg beach is bustling with trendy cafes, clothing stores and restaurants. This is also a good spot to come for a night out on the town.

Located on the other side of Jetty Road, Brighton Beach is another Adelaide gem. Also super accessible from the CBD, Brighton is much sunnier than England’s infamous beach with the same name. However, the esplanade is reminiscent of the quaint British town, with more fish and chip shops than you can count on one hand!

Slightly further out, Moana beach is perfect for a day trip or even a weekend holiday. It’s a great family spot, with small waves that are great for the kiddies. Take 45 minutes out of your day for the drive down and expect a long, sandy beach that makes you feel miles away.

This beach is a little different from our other Adelaide favourites, but its why we like it. What used to be a river port, Goolwa beach is an 11km beach and sand dune system, one side zoned for agriculture use and the other for urban use. The town is also worth checking out, full of indigenous and maritime history.

An upscale oasis for city slickers who love a pre-work dip or an evening drink by the water, Henley is close and divine. The beach also has a decent esplanade walk which is a popular exercise spot. The waters are bright blue and feel like they go on forever- walk up the jetty for the full experience.

Semaphore is one of the more expansive of the Adelaide beaches and draws huge crowds. The beach is bordered by sand dunes and has iconic views of the CBD, Fleurieu coastlines and the Gulf St Vincent. Either go for a run up the sand dunes, lay on the beach or maybe fishing off the pier is more your cup of tea. Whatever it is, there’s something for everyone at Semaphore.

This one is for the snorkelers out there, with an enclosed reef that has some of the best snorkelling in the state. Only a 35-minute drive from the CBD, Port Noarlunga is surrounded by red sandstone cliffs and has a long jetty like most of Adelaide’s beaches. The village is also picturesque.

A flat beach that is perfect for safe swimming, stand up paddleboarding and plenty more. The coastline is curved which means the waves are small, and it also offers stunning views out into the ocean. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a dolphin or two!

Another South Australian gem, Second Valley Beach is one of our favourite spots for snorkelling, scuba diving and of course- swimming! There are also plenty of nice rocky spots to admire and walkabout. The sparkling waters, luscious reefs and sandy coastline make Second Valley Beach insta-worthy that’s for sure!

Got a troop-carrier or a 4-wheel drive and find it hard to part ways? Fear not, at this Adelaide beach you can drive your car on to the sand and park up for the whole day. With a long coastline, there is usually a spot for you and your car and you can easily fill a whole day here swimming, snorkelling or even surfing, the beach providing some nice swells.