If you’re visiting South Australia’s coastal town, there are many activities to keep you entertained. Horse-drawn trams will take you across a causeway to Granite Island, home to a wild penguin colony. You can also ride on the Cockle Train, pulled by steam locomotives. The Cockle Train connects Goolwa with the Murray River Mouth. The southern right whale is commonly spotted in Encounter Bay. You can also explore the Fleurieu Peninsula on foot by following the Heysen Trail.
Granite Island
Ramindjeri people refer to Granite Island as Nulcoowarra. The island is located 80 kilometres south of Adelaide. The island is a place of spiritual and cultural significance to the Ramindjeri people. Visit the island to discover the rich culture and history of the place. The island is also an excellent place for birdwatching. The island is home to numerous bird species and has a pristine sandy beach.
The island is small – only 62 acres – and is accessible by a wooden causeway that spans six hundred and thirty-two metres. The island is home to a fairy penguin colony. The island was a whaling station for a short period of time in the 1830s, but that has long since closed. Today, it’s a popular location for hiking, swimming, and fishing.
Visitors can explore the island’s craggy outcrop on foot. There are several interpretive signs to interpret the landscape and spot native wildlife. While the island is a popular destination for birdwatching, visitors should be aware of its sensitive environment. Several foxes have managed to make their way to the island, and visitors must avoid disturbing the penguins. Also, the island’s residents include some penguin colonies, which may have been decimated by the increasing number of predators.
Oceanic Victor
If you’re looking for a fun, educational experience, check out the Oceanic Victor in-sea aquarium. Located near Granite Island, this aquarium offers a two-hour tour that includes swimming with local fish and snorkeling equipment. You can even feed the tuna! And, as a bonus, you’ll get to see a beautiful sunset and see a variety of sea creatures up close. While you’re at the aquarium, you can also enjoy a seafood lunch and wine and beer.
Oceanic Victor arrived in Victor Harbor last July after a 7-day journey from Port Lincoln. The aquarium features southern bluefin tuna, an indigenous species, and other sea creatures. During the COVID-19 restrictions, the project was shut down. Protesters and residents alike expressed their concern about the project and filed four appeals against its approval. In September, the project was approved by a panel of environmental groups, including PIRSA Aquaculture and the Department of Planning.
Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tram
The Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tram connects the city of Granite Island to the visitor information centre in Victor Harbor, South Australia. The 3.1 km long tram crosses a 630 metre causeway. The tram runs from one end of Granite Island to the other, connecting two of the city’s most picturesque locations. When you’re finished, take a walk on Granite Island to experience the breathtaking view from the island.
The historic Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tram links the city’s downtown with Granite Island. It is one of two horse-drawn trams in the world and operates on roller bearings. The Tram takes passengers across a 630-metre causeway and is operated daily. The train makes multiple trips daily. While it may not be the fastest way to travel from point A to point B, the ride is scenic and fun.
The pier at the historic seaside town of Granite Island needs urgent repairs. Until that happens, a horse-drawn tram will operate to ferry visitors from the mainland to Granite Island. Unlike the steam-powered trams that ply Australia’s coastlines, the Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tram is a rare sight in the country. Aside from a historical landmark, the pier features a beautiful sand dunes that resemble the sea.
Urimbirra Wildlife Park
Located in the Hinterland Valley of Victor Harbor, the Urimbirra Wildlife Park is a great place to visit to see local animals. With more than 400 native Australian species, the park is a must-see for visitors to the area. It’s also a popular spot for coach groups and school groups. Here, you can get up close and personal with wildlife and enjoy a picnic in the park’s wetland bird sanctuary.
One of the attractions at the Urimbirra Wildlife Park in Victor Harbour is the ability to see up-close and personal with some of the animals. You can pet wallabies, kangaroos, koalas, and a whole host of other creatures. You can even have a barbeque here and watch the animals interact with each other. The park is family-owned and operated and allows people to bring food to enjoy while they visit the park.
Kaiki Walk – Granite Island
Visit the Granite Island Recreation Park and take the Kaiki Walk on a gorgeous afternoon. Located 0.6 kilometres south of Victor Harbor and about 120 km from Adelaide, this South Australian park is said to be one of the most popular in the state. With a number of trails to choose from, you can find something for everyone. And if you’re not sure what to do first, read on to learn more about the Kaiki Walk on Granite Island!
If you have time, take the 3-kilometre long Kaiki Walk on Granite Island. Start at the foot of the causeway and enjoy a beautiful view of Victor Harbor. Then, make your way around the exposed southern side of the island to see its dramatic granite outcrops. You may be surprised at how easy it is to get lost! Make sure to bring your camera, as the trail can be very long and can get confusing, so plan ahead and bring along a map!
South Australia Whale Centre
If you’re planning a visit to Victor Harbor, make sure to visit the South Australia Whale Centre. In this heritage building, you’ll find interactive exhibits on the history of whale biology and whaling. You can also learn about the whale’s life cycle. While you’re there, be sure to take a look at the whale displays. They’ll help you make sense of what’s happening around you.
The SA Whale Centre was first opened in 1994 in an old railway goods shed. The space was originally a cellar, but after renovation, it became an exhibit space. Its exhibits still enthrall visitors. After years of success, the centre has undergone several redevelopments. The latest one took place in 2008.
The South Australia Whale Centre is open daily, except Christmas. There is a small admission fee, and family tickets are available for just $24. Children under 4 are free. The South Australia Whale Centre is located adjacent to the tram station, making it easy to reach. The price is reasonable and worth visiting. The South Australia Whale Centre is a great place to spend a day in Victor Harbor. Soak in the history of whales, the wildlife of Australia, and the rich culture of South Australia.
Penguin Centre
The Penguin Centre in Victor Harbor is set to close in January 2016, owing to the closure of Granite Island. The centre was open to the public and housed retired penguins in an artificial enclosure. After years of successful marketing, Dorothy Longden decided to retire. While the centre’s operations would cease, nightly tours would continue from the mainland information centre. Sadly, the closure has resulted in the death of a beloved penguin.
In addition to the new facility, Granite Island is home to the world’s only breeding colony of Fjordland penguins, which is native to New Zealand. This colony is a vital component of Victor Harbor’s tourism industry and has attracted visitors for generations. The centre is home to a part-time ranger, who works with volunteers and Friends of Granite Island to restore the island’s habitat.
As the number of visitors to Granite Island increases, its impact on penguins’ habitats is becoming more apparent. The increased number of tourists, as well as other activities, poses a serious threat to the species. Further studies are required to determine the full impacts of this new attraction, but one thing is for sure: the penguins deserve to be protected. By following the Triple Bottom Line, you’ll be able to help save these beautiful animals and their habitats.
Parsons Beach
If you’re in the mood for a surf vacation, there are several locations to choose from in the area, including the popular Parsons Beach in Victor Harbor. Surrounded by water, this popular beach is known for its consistent swells and whitewater. Its location on the Fleurieu Peninsula puts it on the edge of the Spencer Gulf, making it a top spot for surfers and bodyboarders.