CityBuddy
Glenelg Beach
Best time to visit
Early morning (6:00-8:00) to see dolphins and avoid crowds, or late afternoon for one of the most beautiful sunsets in South Australia. November and March offer the most pleasant temperatures without the high heat of January.
Budget tips
Entry to the beach is free. The tram from Adelaide city center costs around 5 Australian dollars for a return ticket with the MetroCARD. Bring food and drinks from the local supermarket to save money, as seaside restaurants have high prices.
Recommended for
Families with children, Couples, Photography enthusiasts, Swimmers and bathers
Plan your visit
2-4 hours or a full day
About
Quick facts: The beach stretches along 7 kilometers of coastline and is the only beach in South Australia where the historic tram drops you in the middle of the sand. More than 3 million visitors set foot on this shore every year, making it the most visited beach destination in the state.
Highlights: In the early morning hours, bottlenose dolphins swim within 20 meters of the shore, creating a natural show for those who wake up early. The soft sandstone at the bottom of the waves creates calm turquoise waters that stay warm up to 22 degrees Celsius during summer, a rare detail for Southern Ocean shores.
Insider tips
- Free parking is available on side streets like Nile Street, only a 5-minute walk from the shore, avoiding the expensive parking fees near the beach.
- Place your towel on the northern part of the beach (near the Stamford hotel) where the sand is wider and there is more space.
- Restaurant 2KW on the top floor of the Marina Pier building has a terrace with a 360-degree view, perfect for photos without crowds.
- Avoid Sundays in summer when the whole city flocks to the beach and come on weekdays for fewer people.
Practical info
Where to Stay in Adelaide
Selected by City Buddy based on guest reviews and proximity to top attractions
Search all hotels in AdelaidePowered by agoda
