Quick Info

Visit Duration: 5 Days

Timings: 9:30 AM to 5 PM

Entry type: Paid

Entry Details: $22 for adults

summary

•A Secluded Beach Escape

Second Valley Beach is a secluded beach located on the Fleurieu Peninsula, about an hour south of Adelaide. This tranquil beach is surrounded by natural bushland and granite cliffs, offering a peaceful escape from the city. The beach stretches for 2.5 kilometers with soft white sand and crystal clear turquoise waters.

•Outdoor Adventures

There are many ways to enjoy the scenic surroundings of Second Valley Beach. Go for a hike along the Heysen Trail to explore the native vegetation and spot wildlife like kangaroos, emus and koalas in their natural habitat. The 1.5 kilometer coastal walk from Second Valley Beach to Rapid Bay is a highlight, with stunning views from the clifftops. For those wanting to get out on the water, you can go snorkeling, scuba diving or kayaking. The reefs off Second Valley Beach are home to many fish species and leafy sea dragons.

•Relax and Unwind

If you prefer to relax, Second Valley Beach is the perfect place to unwind. Find a secluded spot along the shore, lay down your towel and soak in the peaceful surroundings. Pack a picnic basket, bring a good book and spend a lazy day beachcombing, swimming or sunbathing. As the sun sets over the ocean, stay to watch the sky come alive with vibrant colors.

•Facilities

Despite its isolated feel, Second Valley Beach does have basic facilities to make your visit comfortable. There are picnic areas with barbecues, a playground, and a boat ramp. The town of Second Valley is a short drive away with a general store, tavern, and accommodation options if you want to extend your stay. With its natural beauty and slower pace of life, Second Valley Beach is a sanctuary you’ll want to escape to again and again.

Highlights of Second Valley Beach

Innes National Park

Only a 30 minute drive from Second Valley Beach, Innes National Park is a must-see. This natural paradise features secluded beaches, hiking trails, camping spots and opportunities for sandboarding, fishing and surfing.

•Explore the Inneston Historic Township to learn about the area’s gypsum mining history.

•Check out Stenhouse Bay and Pondalowie Bay for swimming, kayaking and beachcombing.

•Spot kangaroos, emus and over 200 species of birds in their native habitat.

•Cape Jervis

The gateway to Kangaroo Island, Cape Jervis is a quick 10 minute drive from Second Valley. Hop on a ferry for a day trip or extended stay on KI, or enjoy activities around the cape like:

•Whale watching from June to October. Southern right whales migrate along the coastline.

•Rock climbing the sea cliffs and granite outcrops. There are routes for all skill levels.

•Fishing from the jetty or boat ramp. You can catch garfish, salmon, snook and more.

•Exploring the historic lighthouse precinct. The lighthouse was built in 1858 and offers panoramic views.

•Rapid Bay

Only 15 minutes up the road, Rapid Bay is a scenic limestone coastline with opportunities for:

•Snorkeling and scuba diving. An underwater reef and historic shipwreck can be explored.

Surfing the point break. When conditions are right, it can produce rideable waves.

•Beachcombing for shells, cuttlefish bones and sea urchins. The rocky shoreline is a treasure trove.

•Spotting leafy sea dragons in their natural habitat. Rapid Bay jetty is one of the best places in SA to see these marine creatures camouflaged in the seaweed.

•Normanville and Yankalilla

For a day trip slightly further afield, the historic towns of Normanville (25 minutes away) and Yankalilla (35 minutes away) offer:

•Cafes, restaurants, bakeries and pubs. Refuel with fish and chips, craft beer or a homemade pie.

•Antique and craft shops. Pick up locally made art, jewelry or vintage goods.

•Golfing. Normanville has an 18-hole course with ocean views.

•Wineries. Several cellar doors featuring pinot noir, shiraz and chardonnay are just a short drive away.

Second Valley Beach Overview

•A Secluded Beach Escape

•Outdoor Adventures

•Relax and Unwind

•Facilities

Points Of Interest for Second Valley Beach

•Second Valley Beach is a secluded paradise just an hour from Adelaide. Here are some of the highlights of this natural wonderland:

•Pristine white sand and turquoise waters. The beach stretches over 2 km, with soft white sand and stunning aqua waters. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing or beachcombing.

•Massive granite boulders. Impressive granite boulders and cliffs line the beach, some over 30 meters high. They’re a sight to behold and popular for rock climbing.

•Abundant wildlife. You may spot dolphins frolicking in the waves or whales breaching offshore during migration season. Native birds like galahs and cockatoos frequent the area. At night, tiny penguins waddle ashore.

•Peace and quiet. Second Valley Beach is an escape from the crowds. There are limited facilities, so the beach retains a peaceful, secluded vibe. Find your own private cove to relax in solitude.

•Camping spots. For an overnight stay, there are campsites with amenities nestled among the bushland. Fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves under a blanket of stars.

•Walking trails. Several walking trails lead from the beach up to the cliffs, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Spot seasonal wildflowers and wildlife along the trails.

•With pristine natural scenery and opportunities for adventure or relaxation, Second Valley Beach is a secluded coastal paradise you’ll want to escape to again and again.

Best time to visit Second Valley Beach

The best time to visit Second Valley Beach is during the summer months from December through February. During these warmer months, the average high temperatures are in the mid 70s Fahrenheit, perfect for enjoying the beach and swimming in the ocean without freezing!

•Summer Weather

The summer season sees the most sunshine and least chance of rain, so you're almost guaranteed clear blue skies and stunning sunsets over the water. Pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a beach towel or two - you'll want to spend lots of time swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing along the shore.

•Whale Watching

Between May and October, Southern Right whales and Humpback whales migrate along the South Australian coast. Second Valley Beach is a prime spot for whale watching, as the whales come very close to shore. You may even spot dolphins, seals, and penguins playing in the waves or swimming by the beach. Seeing these amazing creatures in their natural habitat is an experience you'll never forget.

•Fewer Crowds

While the weather is ideal in summer, the crowds are smaller since most locals have returned to work and school. You'll have more space to yourself on the beach and an easier time finding parking. The beach is open 24 hours, so you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore in the early morning or late evening when there's almost no one else around.

The natural scenery, opportunities for swimming and sunbathing, whale watching, and smaller crowds make summer the perfect time for a tranquil escape to Second Valley Beach. Pack your bags, load up the car, and hit the road for an unforgettable beach getaway. You'll return home feeling recharged by the sea, sand, and solitude.