Explore the Serenity of Onkaparinga Wetlands
Discover the Onkaparinga Wetlands, a natural haven in Noarlunga Downs, South Australia, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nestled in Noarlunga Downs, the Onkaparinga Wetlands offers tourists a tranquil escape into nature, where diverse wildlife and scenic trails await exploration. Ideal for nature lovers and families, this park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in South Australia.
A brief summary to Onkaparinga Wetlands
- Noarlunga Downs, South Australia, 5168, AU
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; you'll want to catch a glimpse of the diverse bird species.
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings and stunning light for photography.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along the trails.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking; the trails can be uneven in some areas.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit to ensure a pleasant experience.
Getting There
-
Public Transport - Bus
From the Adelaide city center, head to the nearest bus stop and catch the bus number 823 or 825 towards Noarlunga Centre. These buses run frequently (approximately every 30 minutes). Stay on the bus until you reach the stop at Noarlunga Centre Interchange. From there, transfer to bus number 740 towards Aldinga Beach and get off at the stop for Noarlunga Downs. The Onkaparinga Wetlands are a short 10-minute walk from the bus stop. Head east on Noarlunga Downs Road, then turn left onto Field Street, which will lead you directly to the wetlands entrance.
-
Public Transport - Train
If you prefer to take the train, board the Seaford line from Adelaide Railway Station. The train departs regularly and takes about 45 minutes to reach Noarlunga Centre station. Once you arrive at Noarlunga Centre, exit the station and walk to the bus interchange. From there, take bus number 740 towards Aldinga Beach and disembark at the Noarlunga Downs stop. The Onkaparinga Wetlands are just a short 10-minute walk away. Head east on Noarlunga Downs Road, then turn left onto Field Street to reach the wetlands.
-
Walking
If you are near the banks of the Onkaparinga River, you can walk to the wetlands. Start from the river's edge and follow the walking trails that lead towards Field Street. The wetlands are accessible from the walking paths along the river, providing a scenic route. Ensure you have a map or GPS device to help guide you, as some paths may not be well marked.
-
Bicycle
For a more active journey, consider renting a bicycle. You can find bike rental shops in the city center. From Adelaide, cycle south along the coast on the Encounter Bikeway, which will take you through beautiful coastal scenery. Follow the markers towards Noarlunga Downs. Once you reach the Noarlunga Downs area, park your bike and walk towards the wetlands entrance, which is approximately 1 km from the main road.
Discover more about Onkaparinga Wetlands
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Surfers Memorial
3.5 km
Explore the Surfers Memorial in Seaford, a touching tribute to surfers and a serene spot for reflection along South Australia's stunning coastline.
Fleurieu Film Festival
6.7 km
Experience the magic of independent cinema at the Fleurieu Film Festival in McLaren Vale, showcasing diverse films and celebrating creative talent.
Reynell Home historic marker
8.7 km
Explore the Reynell Home Historic Marker in Old Reynella, a captivating historical landmark that reveals the rich heritage of South Australia.
Southern Adventure Hub
10.4 km
Experience the exhilarating outdoor adventures and breathtaking landscapes at Southern Adventure Hub in Blewitt Springs, South Australia.
Wirra Wirra Vineyards
10.5 km
Experience the beauty of McLaren Vale at Wirra Wirra Vineyards, where exceptional wines and breathtaking landscapes await every visitor.
Shiraz Trail
10.7 km
Explore the stunning Shiraz Trail in McLaren Vale, where picturesque landscapes meet exquisite wines in South Australia’s premier wine region.
Star of Greece Memorial Stone
11.9 km
Discover the historical significance of the Star of Greece Memorial Stone in Port Willunga, a serene tribute to maritime heritage and coastal beauty.
Port Willunga Beach
12.0 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich history of Port Willunga Beach, a tranquil gem perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures in South Australia.
Fleurieu Folk Festival
14.0 km
Discover the heart of folk culture at the Fleurieu Folk Festival in Willunga, South Australia, featuring music, arts, and community spirit.
A Taste Of South Australia
18.2 km
Discover the rich flavors of South Australia at A Taste of South Australia, where fine wines and gourmet delights await every visitor.
The Big Cherries
19.2 km
Explore the charm of The Big Cherries in Pages Flat, South Australia - a delightful tribute to local agriculture and a perfect photo opportunity amidst stunning landscapes.
Stormont Historic Mansion
19.3 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Stormont Historic Mansion, a must-visit landmark in Glenelg, South Australia.
Glenelg Air Raid Shelter
19.5 km
Explore the Glenelg Air Raid Shelter, a historical landmark that offers a unique glimpse into Australia's wartime past in the heart of Glenelg.
Glenelg Beach South of Jetty
19.5 km
Experience the beauty and excitement of Glenelg Beach, a coastal paradise in South Australia perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Glenelg Jetty
19.6 km
Discover the stunning Glenelg Jetty, a premier fishing pier in South Australia, where charming views and vibrant beach culture meet.
Unmissable attractions to see
Onkaparinga River Recreation Park
0.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Onkaparinga River Recreation Park, a national park perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Jubilee Park
1.5 km
Explore Jubilee Park in Port Noarlunga South, a family-friendly attraction with a vibrant playground, picnic areas, and breathtaking coastal views.
Port Noarlunga Beach
2.1 km
Explore Port Noarlunga Beach, a pristine coastal paradise with crystal-clear waters, vibrant reefs, and endless recreational activities for the whole family.
Onkaparinga River Mouth View Point
2.2 km
Discover the natural beauty of the Onkaparinga River Mouth View Point in Seaford, South Australia, where river meets ocean in a stunning landscape.
Port Noarlunga Jetty
2.3 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Port Noarlunga Jetty, a premier fishing pier and observation deck with breathtaking ocean views.
The Anchor
2.4 km
Discover the coastal charm of The Anchor in Port Noarlunga, South Australia - a vibrant tourist attraction with stunning ocean views and local culture.
Port Noarlunga aquatic trail
2.5 km
Discover the stunning marine life at Port Noarlunga Aquatic Trail, a snorkeling paradise in St Vincent Gulf, perfect for adventurers and families alike.
Oliver’s Taranga Vineyards - Cellar Door and Winery
5.2 km
Explore the enchanting Oliver's Taranga Vineyards, where exquisite wines meet breathtaking landscapes in the heart of McLaren Vale, South Australia.
Samuel's Gorge
5.4 km
Experience the beauty of McLaren Vale at Samuel's Gorge, where stunning landscapes meet exceptional wines in a serene winery setting.
Moana Sands Conservation Park
5.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Moana Sands Conservation Park, a hidden gem along South Australia's stunning coastline.
Beach Road Winery & Restaurant
5.5 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of McLaren Vale at Beach Road Winery & Restaurant, where exceptional wines meet culinary artistry in a stunning vineyard setting.
Mollydooker Wines
5.7 km
Discover the vibrant world of Mollydooker Wines in McLaren Vale, where exceptional wines meet breathtaking views and rich winemaking traditions.
Chapel Hill Winery Tasting Room
5.9 km
Explore the exquisite wines and breathtaking views at Chapel Hill Winery Tasting Room in McLaren Vale, a must-visit for wine lovers.
Surf and Sun Surf Lessons Moana
5.9 km
Discover the thrill of surfing at Surf and Sun Surf Lessons in Moana, where expert instructors guide you to ride the waves in a stunning coastal paradise.
Coriole Vineyards
6.0 km
Experience the beauty of South Australia's wine country at Coriole Vineyards with exquisite wines and gourmet dining in McLaren Vale.
Essential places to dine
Agatha's
2.0 km
Discover Agatha's in Port Noarlunga - where delightful breakfasts meet artisanal coffee in a cozy coastal setting.
d'Arry's Verandah Restaurant
7.2 km
Experience exceptional dining at d'Arry's Verandah Restaurant in McLaren Vale - where exquisite food meets stunning vineyard views.
Tin Shed Cafe
8.0 km
Experience delightful Australian cuisine at Tin Shed Cafe in McLaren Vale – perfect for breakfast or brunch amidst stunning vineyard views.
Vasarelli Cellar Door Restaurant
8.1 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Vasarelli Cellar Door Restaurant in McLaren Vale, surrounded by breathtaking vineyard views.
The Salopian Inn
9.8 km
Experience exquisite Asian fusion cuisine at The Salopian Inn in McLaren Vale—where fresh local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
The Currant Shed Restaurant
10.5 km
Discover exquisite modern Australian cuisine at The Currant Shed in McLaren Flat - where local flavors meet stunning vineyard views.
Red Poles
11.0 km
Discover Red Poles: A unique blend of gourmet dining, Aboriginal art gallery, and charming bed & breakfast in McLaren Vale.
Star of Greece
11.9 km
Experience exquisite Mediterranean fine dining with breathtaking ocean views at Star of Greece in Port Willunga.
SheShells Restaurant
19.6 km
Experience exceptional seafood dining at SheShells Restaurant in Glenelg - where fresh flavors meet coastal charm.
Europa at the Bay
19.6 km
Savor exquisite continental flavors with stunning bay views at Europa at the Bay – your ultimate brunch destination in Glenelg.
Terra & Sol
19.6 km
Experience exquisite flavors and vibrant cocktails at Terra & Sol in Glenelg - your culinary oasis by the sea.
Fourth.
19.6 km
Discover Fourth - A culinary gem in Glenelg offering diverse dishes and stunning beach views.
Glenelg Barbeque Inn
19.7 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue delights at Glenelg Barbeque Inn - where flavors meet coastal charm in South Australia.
Sherpa Kitchen and Bar
19.7 km
Discover authentic Nepalese flavors at Sherpa Kitchen and Bar in Glenelg – where tradition meets taste.
Coast
19.9 km
Experience coastal dining at its finest with breathtaking views and fresh local cuisine at Coast in Glenelg.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Savers
1.7 km
Explore Savers in Noarlunga Centre for unique second-hand treasures and sustainable shopping experiences at unbeatable prices.
Fleurieu Gifts
1.9 km
Explore Fleurieu Gifts in Port Noarlunga for unique local crafts and memorable souvenirs that celebrate the beauty of South Australia.
Drink in Style
1.9 km
Explore Drink in Style, a unique gift shop in Port Noarlunga, offering a diverse selection of quality gifts and local treasures.
#noddys
1.9 km
Discover unique antiques and collectibles at Noddy's, the charming antique store in Port Noarlunga, South Australia.
Earth Magic
1.9 km
Explore unique gifts and local crafts at Earth Magic Gift Shop in Port Noarlunga, where creativity meets the coast.
The Sound of White
2.0 km
Explore South Australia's artistic spirit at The Sound of White, a boutique offering unique local art, fashion, and handcrafted treasures.
Gypsy Life
5.1 km
Explore Gypsy Life in Moana for unique gifts, beach fashion, and handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of South Australia.
Unveiling SA...One Gift at a Time
7.2 km
Discover unique South Australian gifts and artisan treasures at Unveiling SA in McLaren Vale, your go-to destination for memorable souvenirs.
Its Ozzy - A Gallery of Gifts
7.8 km
Explore Its Ozzy in McLaren Vale - Your destination for unique Australian gifts and local artisan treasures.
Tinlins Cellar Door
9.6 km
Experience the essence of South Australian wines at Tinlins Cellar Door, where tradition meets charm in a stunning vineyard setting.
Its n Bits Home
11.4 km
Explore Its n Bits Home in O'Halloran Hill for unique homewares, stylish gifts, and quality clothing at affordable prices.
Miss Gladys On Sea
12.4 km
Explore the trendy and unique fashion offerings at Miss Gladys On Sea in Aldinga, South Australia, for a stylish shopping experience.
Moose on the Jetty
15.6 km
Discover unique gifts and homewares at Moose on the Jetty, a charming gift shop in Brighton, South Australia, perfect for tourists seeking local treasures.
The Little Boutique
18.8 km
Explore the charm of The Little Boutique in Glenelg South, where fashion meets individuality in a delightful shopping experience.
Attitudes Boutique
19.6 km
Discover unique fashion and homewares at Attitudes Boutique in Glenelg, where style meets charm in an inviting shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Beach Hotel
4.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal views at Beach Hotel, Seaford's premier pub for relaxation and delicious dining.
Vale Brewing Restaurant and Bar
10.5 km
Experience the best of South Australia's craft brewing and local cuisine at Vale Brewing Restaurant and Bar in McLaren Flat.
Alma Hotel
14.0 km
Experience the heart of Willunga at the Alma Hotel, a vibrant pub offering delicious food, local wines, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Seacliff Beach Hotel
14.1 km
Experience coastal charm at Seacliff Beach Hotel, where stunning ocean views meet delicious cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere.
Old Bush Inn
14.5 km
Discover Old Bush Inn in Willunga: A historic pub offering a warm atmosphere, delicious local cuisine, and a fine selection of wines and craft beers.
Flinders Tavern
16.2 km
Discover Flinders Tavern, a grill paradise at Flinders University offering delicious meals and refreshing drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Silver Sands Beach Club
17.3 km
Experience the best of Aldinga Beach at Silver Sands Beach Club - a blend of refreshing drinks, delicious meals, and breathtaking ocean views.
The Duck
17.9 km
Discover The Duck in Coromandel Valley - a charming pub offering fresh local cuisine and a great selection of drinks.
The Southern Bar Gaming Bistro
18.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Southern Bar Gaming Bistro in St Marys, where great food and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.
Horizons Cocktail Lounge
19.5 km
Experience the enchanting ambiance and exquisite cocktails at Horizons Cocktail Lounge, a premier destination in Glenelg for relaxation and breathtaking views.
The Grand Bar
19.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Grand Bar in Glenelg, where delicious food meets stunning beach views and lively nightlife.
The Jetty Bar
19.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant atmosphere at The Jetty Bar in Glenelg – a beachside haven for food and drink lovers.
The Moseley
19.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Moseley in Glenelg, where delicious food meets lively nightlife along the beautiful coast.
Glenelg Surf Life Saving Club
19.8 km
Experience the ultimate beachside retreat at Glenelg Surf Life Saving Club, where dining, relaxation, and adventure come together.
Pier Bar
20.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning ocean views at Pier Bar in Glenelg, where relaxation meets coastal charm.