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Perch yourself at cocktail bars with sunset views, venture on wine-themed day trips and watch whales migrate across the ocean, as you explore a whole new side to Adelaide during the cooler months. 

Drive along a beach 

When the water is chilly, the ocean isn't all that appealing for a dip. But jump in the car and drive along the beach instead! Aldinga and Silver Sands are popular spots and only an hour from the CBD. Pack a picnic or fishing rods and make a day of it. 

Bar hop in the CBD 

Adelaide’s bar scene is more than healthy. In fact, it gives Melbourne and Sydney a run for their money. Don't miss the super chic 2KW rooftop bar for a glimpse at sunset or venture down Peel Street for moody laneway-style bars and cocktail lounges. 

Take a long lunch at a winery 

Wine tastings and long lunches go hand in hand and nowhere does this pairing better than the cellar doors around Adelaide. Enjoy a lavish degustation at d’Arry’s Verandah Restaurant in McLaren Vale before viewing the art installations in the striking d’Arenberg Cube. If you want to dial things down a bit, Wirra Wirra has the perfect outdoor facility with a shelter, seating and barbecues so you can bring your own food and put your savings towards more of their excellent wine. 

Watch the whales 

The cooler months are perfect for whale watching, as it is during the annual migration that the whales mate, give birth, and nurse their young. The migration generally starts in May and finishes in October, with frequent sightings between June and September. 

The Fleurieu and Eyre Peninsulas are good viewing spots as the Southern Right Whales breach just off the shoreline. Remember to pack your binoculars for a closer look. Stop in at the SA Whale Centre in Victor Harbor for a whale fact warm-up beforehand. 

Hop to the island 

Take the Sealink ferry to Kangaroo Island, which is at its most beautiful in the cooler months. The fishing is fun, the wildlife plentiful, and the views outstanding. The winter months also mean fewer crowds, so you can explore everything the island has to offer without being bothered by hordes of tourists. 

The island is heaven for wildlife lovers at this time of year. Fur seals and sea lions bask on the rocks in search of the sun, and the resident mammals come out to play, including the joeys that start emerging from their mother’s pouches. 

Meander the Cygnet River Artisan Trail, its wineries and distillery, including The Islander Estate Vineyards and Kangaroo Island Spirits. The cellar doors and farm gates are more relaxed in the cooler months, when the proprietors have more time to stop for a chat. 

Discover the markets 

The Adelaide Central Market is famous for its wares, offering everything from creamy cheeses to farm-fresh berries and Latvian lunches. Other, smaller markets include Kalangadoo, Barossa, Mount Pleasant and Willunga Markets on Saturdays and the Adelaide Farmers Market in Wayville on Sundays. Shop in the crisp, fresh air and enjoy delicious locally grown produce. 

Talk to the animals 

Get you wildlife fix at Adelaide Zoo, home to almost 2000 animals, including kangaroos, koalas and other native species. Check out the Giant Pandas, Wang Wang and Fu Ni, and meet Obi, the zoo's Pygmy Hippo who has won the hearts of visitors and staff alike as he swims, wallows in his mud bath, plays with his keeper friends, and rolls in the hay. 

Head to Hahndorf 

Enjoy a little slice of Germany at Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills. Shop the main street's boutiques and pick up everything from toys to minerals, handcrafted leather and beauty products then satisfy your cravings with a beer and schnitzel at one of the many cafés or restaurants. 

Find the best brew 

Adelaide may be famous for its wine but here’s a little secret: its craft beer scene is also booming. From small breweries in the city like Brewboys to long- established brew houses like Barossa Valley Brewing in Tanunda, there are plenty of places to sample some fresh lagers. 

Stay

Cosy up at the Adina Apartment Hotel Adelaide Treasury, a gorgeous historic building with well-equipped apartments that are perfect for an extended stay. Or for the perfect girls weekend, relax in the new contemporary rooms at Vibe Hotel Adelaide, set amongst the vibrant streets of Adelaide’s East End.