We have to start with the most famous bakery in the region (possibly all of South Australia). Port Elliot Bakery isn’t flashy but their pies and pasties are flaky and delicious. Not to mention the soft doughnuts which sell out almost every day. Don’t be worried by the line down the street, the staff are very efficient and it moves fast.

For a morning caffeine hit, push past the cyclists to grab a coffee at De Groot Coffee Co. Single-origin beans are roasted on site and it’s right up there amongst the best cup of coffee you’ll get along the coast. 

Located across the other side of Horseshoe Bay from the Park, Flying Fish Cafe is a great spot for lunch. Grab some of their fresh fish and chips (served famously in a paper cone) and enjoy a picnic on the lawns by the beach. 

In the main part of Port Elliot township, Hotel Elliot is the standout. A country-style pub with hearty staples and seasonal classics, it’s a genuine crowd-pleaser. There’s a spacious dog-friendly beer garden where you’ll occasionally get live music. Book well in advance during the peak summer months, especially on weekends.

As well as ample cooking facilities at the Park for those looking to self-cater, there’s also lots of options if you head into Victor Harbour, the largest regional centre of the Fleurieu Peninsula. For a stalwart Italian pizza, pasta restaurant, Nino’s has been reliable and family friendly since it opened over 45 years ago.

We grew up spending summers in this region and there’s loads of fun to be had right at the Park’s doorstep. 

Horseshoe Bay’s sandy shores and rocky headlands are a perfect spot to stare out into the ocean and spot a dolphin or a whale if you’re lucky. Head just along the coast line either side and you’ll find the local surf breaks of Middleton (to the east) and Chiton Rocks (to the west).

Take a bike ride along the Encounter Bike Track that connects Port Elliot to nearby towns, Victor Harbour, Middleton and Goolwa. 

Also a favourite for young kids is a ride along the Cockle Train heritage railway, a scenic coastal ride along an old stream train. 

Along the same vein, head into Victor Harbour and ride one of the world’s last remaining horse-drawn trams to Granite Island, aptly named after its massive granite boulders. The Kaiki Walk around the Island showcases the power of the Southern Ocean. 

It’s worth the 15 minute drive into Goolwa. This historic town is where the mighty Murray River meets the sea. The Wharf Precinct is a great spot to check out some of the local businesses and observe sailboats racing along the river. If you’d like to get a closer look at this unique Murray Mouth ecosystem, we highly recommend cruising the Coorong National Park in one of the Spirit of the Coorong boats. They offer a range of award-winning tours. 

Port Elliot is a popular escape for South Australians during long weekends and school holidays, particularly over summer and Easter. If you’re travelling during these peak periods, book well in advance to secure a beachfront Site or Cabin. If you’re heading to this gorgeous part of the world during winter, pack a jacket. That southerly breeze has plenty of bite.