
Holiday houses in Encounter Bay
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Top-rated holiday rentals in Encounter Bay
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Other great holiday rentals in Encounter Bay

Victor Beach House - Seafront@Victor (3 king beds)
We loved staying here the sound of the ocean and the beautiful smell of the sea and the accommodation was amazing everything Leanne said it would be perfect place would recommend it to everyone

"Allawah"- meaning to sit, or stay a while
We loved our stay here! The house had a spacious entertaining space, we loved sitting on the deck and taking in the view and warming by the log fire in the evenings. Our beds were very comfortable and we appreciate the quality of all the towels, linens and body products. Just make sure you bring your firewood so you don’t have to wait to start your fire. Our kids are already asking to go back!

Oceanview at Encounter - 4BR Family Escape
Jessie was great, very quick response time. We had babies with us and to avoid us waking them up to check out they gave us another hour. When we went to leave our car broke down and it was super cold so they let us go back in the house till RAA came which was so nice!! House was gorgeous and cosy, extremely clean & the most comfortable beds and couch! Amazing views from the living area also. Will be staying here again!

Gallery 16: Luxury Penthouse
stayed with my parents. and we all agreed that it was a great place to stay. comfortable beds, plenty of room. very clean. great kitchen ( although we didn't cook). fantastic view of the sea from the balcony and lounge. shops are close enough to walk to. and a couple were very close ( fish & chips and a coffee shop). would not hesitate to stay again.

Sandy Bay Studio
The place is stunning full stop! the view is beautiful! The place has been done nicely, bathrooms and kitchen filled with lots of supplies. It’s close to the main house but it’s so private do even notice they are there. Nina even reached out to let us know when a whale came up so we could see through the telescope. so cool! Overall, would 100% stay here again.

Lakehouse28 Waterfront Resort Living Encounter Bay
Place was good, clean on arrival. Host were friendly and helpful. location was very nice overlooking the lake.

Sweet Olive – Cliffside | Expansive Ocean Views
Absolutely loved our stay at the Sweet Olive, couldn’t have asked for a better place for a relaxing girls weekend away. We will definitely be back. We can’t wait for next time. Thank you

Currolga Tiny - seaview to die for
can't ask for more. private place with a beautiful night sky view. with the sound of waves crashing at the beach... worth every penny
Quick stats about holiday rentals in Encounter Bay
Total rentals
130 properties
Nightly prices starting at
$108 AUD before taxes and fees
Total number of reviews
4.3K reviews
Family-friendly rentals
120 properties are a good fit for families
Pet-friendly rentals
40 properties allow pets
Rentals with dedicated workspaces
30 properties have a dedicated workspace
Your guide to Encounter Bay
All About Encounter Bay
Perched between the Coorong and Fleurieu Peninsulas, about 75 minutes south of Adelaide, Encounter Bay is a seaside suburb that features a beautiful beach and spectacular views out to Wright Island. The region surrounding the town is also known as Encounter Bay and includes the towns of Goolwa, Middleton, Port Elliot, and the ever-popular Victor Harbor, which is just six kilometres from Encounter Bay beach. The greater bay area is known for its stunning coastline, rocky cliffs, granite boulders, rivers, and islands.
The bay is famous for being one the best whale watching sites in South Australia between May and October, when southern right whales visit Encounter Bay. And with its wealth of surf break beaches like Waitpinga, Parsons, and Chiton Rocks, it’s also a favourite with wave riders from near and far. Encounter Bay tends to be quieter than some of the other towns in the region, and its inviting beach, local shops, and cafes make this a great destination or base for a holiday in the greater area.
The best time to stay in a holiday rental in Encounter Bay
If you’re here for the surf and sand, summer brings long warm days and nights that are perfect for enjoying all the beach activities on offer. In terms of weather, the most pleasant time to visit is in the spring and autumn months, when the days are sunny and the nights are mild. In October, the popular SA Viking Festival is held over a weekend in Victor Harbor, where you’ll find food, stallholders, historical reenactment groups, and fun for the whole family. If you are more of a winter person, expect chilly temperatures and the opportunity to curl up in front of an open fire indoors while watching choppy seas from the windows of your Encounter Bay accommodation.
Top things to do in Encounter Bay
Granite Island
Ride the tram from Victor Harbour across the causeway to Granite Island to experience one of Encounter Bay’s most striking natural attractions. With unusual granite formations and huge waves that crash against its shores, Granite Island is best experienced via the 2.9 kilometre Kaiki Walk. Try to spot the flora and fauna while taking in the panoramic coastal views. Whale watching is one of the most popular activities here, with the most activity between the months of June and October.
Encounter Bikeway
Cycle, run, or walk on the more than 30 kilometres of path along the coast between Victor Harbor and Goolwa. You can complete the entire Encounter Bikeway while exploring the coastal towns of Victor Harbor, Port Elliot, Middleton, and Goolwa, or choose a shorter excursion. Either way, you will be treated to spectacular views of the coastline. You can hire bikes in many places in Encounter Bay, and the Bikeway is also suitable for rollerblading and wheelchairs.
The Victor Harbor Farmers Market
Take a slow wander around the Victor Harbour Farmers Market which operates every Saturday morning in Grosvenor Gardens. Local farmers and foodies come and fill stalls with organic vegetables, seasonal fruits, gourmet pies, chutneys, honey, breads, local wines, and more. There are also activities for kids including face painting and live music from local musicians.
Destinations to explore
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- Rentals with a patio Encounter Bay
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