Victor Harbor-The Ocean at its Best
View of Victor Harbor from Granite Island
If your family has been searching for a vacation that will mix facts with fun, look no further than Victor Harbor, South Australia. Located approximately 80 KMs south of Adelaide, this oceanic oasis offers an environment so interesting and engaging that your children won’t even realize they’re learning! Of course, when they finally figure it out, there are a ton of other options to keep them busy while you enjoy some well-earned relaxation time. Indeed, Victor Harbor is so popular amongst the younger generation that it is the second largest Schoolies destination after the Gold Coast!
Victor Harbor is less than an hours drive from Adelaide, making it easily accessible from virtually everywhere in Australia. The city is situated on the Fleurieu Peninsula, jutting out into the ocean. With a population of only 13,000 during the offseason, this quaint little sea town offers a nice little break from city life.
The most popular spot for vacationers is Granite Island, accessible by a short tram ride from the mainland. Don’t expect to be bothered by a large engine, however. The power to get you to Granite Island is provided by a team of horses pulling the tram. There are few of these relics anywhere else in the world, so this ride is a treat unto itself. Granite Island’s most distinctive feature is its large colony of penguins. This is one of the only places on the globe that features such a colony so close to a city.
The majesty of these penguins is rivaled only by their larger brethren of the sea. Each year, thousands of whales move up from the sub-Arctic, passing within one hundred meters of the coast. There are several spots along the coast that offer excelling viewing platforms. The South Australia Whale Centre provides the science to accompany the sights.
If after a few days you’ve had enough of the wildlife, there are several opportunities for fun in the local area. Your kids will love Greenhills Adventure Park, with waterslides, rock climbing, mini-golf, and go-karting. The area around Victor Harbor also boasts some of the best surfing on the South Coast of Australia.
When your long day of sightseeing is over, bask in the comfort of one of Victor Harbor’s many quality hotels. For a more intimate getaway, several fantastic bed and breakfasts are spread throughout the city. The food is just as good: try the McCracken Country club for majestic views of the Harbor (along with excellent cuisine).
Victor Harbor has something for everyone, and it’s close enough to Adelaide to make for a quick weekend jaunt. Get intimate with nature in Victor Harbor today.
