Located south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula, Victor Harbor is a popular tourist destination for Australians and international guests. The city has a permanent population of 10,380 residents and experiences a heavy influx of tourists during the summer. With beautiful scenery, unique wildlife and attractions for all ages, it’s easy to see why Victor Harbor is one of the most popular holiday spots in Australia. Try these seven fun activities on your next getaway to Australia’s most beautiful playground.
1. Take a Horse Tram to Granite Island
The Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tram is one of only a few such routes in the world that still operates today. Horses take guests via tramcar every day of the year to nearby Granite Island, one of the most popular attractions in Victor Harbor. Though Granite Island is unpopulated by humans, the island is home to a colony of Little Penguins. The colony’s population has decreased sharply in the past few years, but visitors still come to see the remaining animals in their natural habitat.
2. Surf on the South Coast
Victor Harbor is in the middle of several popular surf beaches along South Coast. Visit Middleton, Parsons, Goolwa and Waitpinga to experience the local surf and to catch some incredible waves. If you’re a beginner, you can even rent a board and take surf lessons from one of the locals.
3. See the Animals at Urimbirra Wildlife Park
Urimbirra Wildlife Park is located just five minutes outside of Victor Harbor in the Hindmarsh Valley. The park is home to more than 400 native Australian animals, including echidnas, crocodiles, wallabies, dingos, kangaroos, snakes, red-bellied pademelons, pythons and many different bird species. Visitors can see koala shows, participate in snake handling events and walk around with and feed kangaroos. Be sure to take this amazing chance to get close to Australian wildlife in a safe and educational environment.
4. Spend a Day at Greenhills Adventure Park
Greenhills Adventure Park offers fun for the whole family with a wide range of activities and dining options. Experience the thrill of water slides, canoes and go-karts or try your hand at archery and rock wall climbing. When you’re finished, you can relax with a delicious meal or cool off with a sweet treat.
5. Go Whale Spotting at the South Australian Whale Centre
Southern right whales come to Victor Harbor between June and September to mate and calve. During this time, visitors at the South Australian Whale Centre have the chance to see the whales and enjoy a number of interactive presentations.
6. Take a Tour of Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island is another of the most popular tourist attractions near Victor Harbor. The island is located off the South Australia Coast and is accessible by ferry. Check out the spectacular views from the Remarkable Rocks or the Admirals Arch or experience the island’s wildlife and forests. With more than 2,250 square kilometres of old-growth vegetation, Kangaroo Island is truly one of the most authentic wildlife sanctuaries you’ll find anywhere in Australia.
7. Enjoy a Wine Tasting at Victor Harbor Winery and Vineyards
Established in 1991, Victor Harbor Winery and Vineyards is home to a variety of premium white, red and blended wines. The establishment is located in the gorgeous Southern Fleurieu Peninsula Hills right outside of the Victor Harbor area. Visitors can tour the facility and discuss the process of winemaking with the vineyard’s owners, Adrienne and Neville Scott. Naturally, you can also taste some of the winery’s most popular blends and purchase your favourite bottles at the Cellar Door before you go home.