8 of SA’s best patrolled beaches

Posted 20 December, 2018 John Pedler

SA is blessed with stunning coastlines, but that doesn’t mean all beaches are suitable for families. Thankfully, our dedicated surf lifesaving volunteers head out every summer to patrol some of the most popular stretches of sand in the state – here are 8 of our favourites.

 

Horseshoe Bay (Port Elliot)

Picture-perfect, Horseshoe Bay is just the sort of place you’d expect to see on postcards… which is probably why it’s on so many postcards. Although it faces directly towards the wild open ocean, it’s sheltered from big surf by the granite lump of Pullen Island. It’s not uncommon for the odd swell to squeeze through the gap and add a bit of a thrill to the day though – hang on tight to the little tackers. Spend even more time by the water with a few nights at a secluded cottage at Port Elliot’s Linger Longer. Patrolled: Weekends from 12–5pm

 

 

Somerton

Never as busy as Adelaide’s better-known coastal hangouts, Somerton is blessed with clear azure waters and a kilometre of crunchy white sand. For a coffee, cold drink or snack, together with a million dollar view, head to the alfresco area of the lifesaving club’s kiosk. Among those in the know, Somerton is considered to be a bit of a secret location – apologies to them. Patrolled: Weekends from 12-5pm https://www.instagram.com/p/BrljNUGjeOb/

 

Southport/Port Noarlunga

Here are 2 beaches side-by-side with entirely different personalities. Located beneath stunning coastal cliffs at the mouth of the Onkaparinga River, Southport is known to receive a nice clean swell on a good day. Just to the north, Port Noarlunga Beach is sheltered by an extensive reef, which is home to a kaleidoscope of colourful sea creatures. At low tide – when the reef is fully exposed and the sea’s at its calmest – you can don a mask and snorkel and explore a underwater wonderland. Patrolled: Weekends from 12.30–5pm at Port Noarlunga, weekends from 12–6pm at Southport  

 

Robe

The surf life saving club has two beaches in its care; Town Beach and the gorgeous (and aptly named) Long Beach, which stretches for several kilometres north of Robe. Depending on where the crowds have gathered, the volunteers will set up at either location, so keep an eye out for the red and yellow flags. Got some extra time to spare? Patrolled: Weekend patrols extend through to the end of January.