Discover the Witton Bluff Base Trail in McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast

Looking for a relaxed family adventure just 45 minutes from Adelaide? McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast offers the perfect mix of coast, nature, and family fun — and the star of the day is the new Witton Bluff Base Trail. This easy, pram-friendly coastal walk connects Christies Beach and Port Noarlunga, offering sweeping ocean views, playful dolphin sightings, and plenty of nearby activities for kids and parents alike.

It’s about slowing down, soaking up the sea air, and sharing those simple, memorable moments together.

Walk the Witton Bluff Base Trail

Easy, Scenic & Family-Friendly

The Witton Bluff Base Trail stretches 1.1 km one way (2.2 km return) between Christies Beach and Port Noarlunga. The fully sealed, three-metre-wide path is perfect for strollers, wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers of all ages. The star feature is its elevated boardwalk, which floats above the rugged limestone reef — giving uninterrupted views of the Gulf St Vincent and coastal cliffs.

This section of the coastline is of deep cultural significance to the Kaurna people, with interpretive signage honouring the Tjilbruke Dreaming story. As you walk, look out for the public art installations and native plantings that connect this trail to the land’s heritage.

What You’ll See Along the Way

• Coastal views from Christies Beach to Port Noarlunga Jetty
• Sea birds gliding over the limestone reef
• Low-tide rock pools and marine life
• Rest areas, seating, and lookouts for family photos

Tip: Mornings and late afternoons offer the best light and cooler temperatures for families with little ones.

Stop 1: Botanista Botanical Emporium, Port Noarlunga

After your morning walk, head into Port Noarlunga village — just minutes from the trail. Step into Botanista, a whimsical botanical emporium filled with lush indoor plants, terrarium workshops, and fairy-garden treasures. Kids will love exploring the Magic Tree and discovering hidden creatures among the ferns, while adults can pick up a unique gift or coffee nearby.

Stop 2: Feed Kangaroos at Woodstock Wines

Drive 20 minutes inland to Woodstock Wines in McLaren Vale for a close-up encounter with Australia’s most iconic wildlife. Their Wildlife Sanctuary is home to rescued kangaroos, and families can join the daily feeding session at 11:30 am (bookings essential). Stay for lunch in the marquee pavilion beside the lawns — their Gin Long Canteen collaboration menu offers vibrant South-East Asian flavours, and there’s plenty of space for kids to roam safely.

Stop 3: Explore the Shiraz Trail

After lunch, stretch your legs on the Shiraz Trail, an 8 km sealed walking and cycling path connecting McLaren Vale and Willunga. This trail follows a former railway line through vineyards, gum trees, and cellar doors — ideal for families with bikes, scooters, or prams. You can start from the McLaren Vale Visitor Centre and enjoy shorter return sections if you prefer a gentler afternoon.

Stop 4: Jubilee Playground, Port Noarlunga

Round out your day back on the coast at Jubilee Playground, one of South Australia’s most loved play spaces. The towering wooden fort, slides, bridges, and climbing towers will keep kids busy for hours. There’s shaded seating, BBQs, and grassy areas perfect for picnics or take-away dinner from nearby cafes.

Tips for Families

• Both the Witton Bluff Base Trail and Shiraz Trail are pram-friendly and accessible.
• Bring water, sunscreen, hats, and a picnic rug — many stops have great picnic spots.
• Don’t forget the camera for those dolphin and kangaroo moments!
• Allow a full day to explore — or turn it into a weekend stay.

Why Families Love McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast

With its mix of beaches, boardwalks, playgrounds, wildlife encounters, and farm-to-fork dining, the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast region makes family days out simple, affordable, and unforgettable. Come for the coastal views, stay for the memories made together.

This article is written in collaboration with Play and Go Adelaide