Holiday houses in 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.

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.

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.