Vale & Coast Stories
Welcome to the official newsroom for McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast.
There’s a rhythm to life where the hills meet the sea. This is a collection of our favorite moments—from the first light on a quiet beach to the last glass of Grenache under a summer moon. Explore our curated guides to the hidden corners, local makers, and timeless landscapes of the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast. Let these stories be the beginning of your next journey.
McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Travel Blog
15 Family-Friendly Things to Do in McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast These July School Holidays
Down the Rabbit Hole — where the cellar door comes with a converted bus, open lawns, and good vibes for the whole family
Planning ahead for the July 2026 school holidays? McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast is one of South Australia's most underrated family destinations — wide open spaces, coastal walks, family-friendly wineries, and enough hidden gems to keep the "I'm bored" chorus at bay all week. Here's your local guide to making the most of it.
Outdoors & Active
1. Explore the Port Noarlunga Jetty & Reef
Rug up and take a stroll along one of South Australia's most iconic jetties. At low tide, the reef becomes a natural rock pool — perfect for spotting sea life, waves crashing, and beachcombing. Bring the camera.
- Cost: Free
- Best for: All ages, dogs on leads welcome
- Tip: Check the tide times before you go for the best reef access
Plan your visit to Port Noarlunga →
2. Ride the Coast to Vines Rail Trail
This flat, sealed trail runs 35km from Marino to Willunga through coastal scenery, vineyards, and native bushland — one of the most family-friendly rides in the region. Pack snacks and take it at your own pace.
- Cost: Free to walk or ride. Bike hire available locally including eBikes and eTukTuks
- Access points: Willunga, McLaren Vale, or Moana
- Best for: Ages 5+, families with bikes or prams
Find bike hire options near the trail →
3. Playgrounds Worth the Drive
The region punches well above its weight on playgrounds. Local favourites:
Jubilee Park, Port Noarlunga South — Giant giraffe climbing frame, flying fox, and shaded picnic spots. A genuine all-day destination.
Free · All ages · Toilet facilities on site
Moana Adventure Playground — Near the beach, with a skate park and serious climbing zones for older kids.
Free · Best for ages 6+
Wilfred Taylor Reserve — Nature play meets water zones. Great for toddlers and younger children.
Free · Best for under-8s
McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre — Coffee for adults, nature play for the kids. A good stop to grab local maps and tips while you're at it.
Free entry
Eat & Drink (Kids Welcome)
4. Beach Road Wines
Wood-fired pizzas and open lawns with vineyard views. The kids can roam while you settle in with a glass of something local. One of the most reliably family-friendly cellar doors in the valley.
- Good for: Ages 2+, groups, casual lunches
- Location: McLaren Vale
5. Pizzateca
A family-run Italian spot with a big lawn, kid-approved thin-crust pizzas, and an in-house gelato bar. Relaxed, affordable, and built for exactly this kind of outing.
- Good for: Ages 2+, fussy eaters, long lunches
- Location: McLaren Vale
6. Goodness Coffee Co
Relaxed indoor space, a kids' play corner, good coffee, and a simple menu that won't cause dinnertime standoffs. Ideal for families with under-5s.
- Good for: Toddlers and babies, quick stops, rainy mornings
- Location: Aldinga
7. Beck's Bakehouse
A Noarlunga institution. Fresh pastries, solid sandwiches, and honest coffee — the kind of spot that makes a simple school holiday morning feel like a treat.
- Good for: All ages, takeaway, early starts
- Location: Port Noarlunga
Family-Friendly Cellar Doors & Breweries
The region's wineries and breweries have genuinely evolved to welcome families — big backyards, lawn games, kids' menus, and space to breathe.
8. Down the Rabbit Hole
A converted bus cellar door with beanbags, lawn games, and a whimsical atmosphere kids and adults both love. One of the quirkier spots in the region. (image Megan Crabb)
9. Vale Brewing & Taphouse
Atop a hill with panoramic views, ample outdoor space, and a menu that covers everyone at the table. Great for a long Sunday afternoon.
10. Kick Back Brewing
Fully-fenced beer garden, giant lawn games, handcrafted beers, and a menu worth staying for. The fence alone earns its place on this list.
11. Woodstock Wines
Meet kangaroos in the on-site wildlife sanctuary, let the kids loose on the playground, and relax under the gum trees. A full afternoon in one stop.
Hidden Gems & Rainy Day Options
12. Bracegirdle's Chocolates, McLaren Vale
Hot chocolate made from Belgian chocolate, plus a selection of handmade treats to take home. A guaranteed winner, whatever the weather.
Open daily — check hours before visiting
13. Botanista Terrarium Bar
Let the kids build their own fairy garden or dinosaur jungle terrarium while you browse boutique teas and giftware. A genuinely unique activity — and they get to take it home.
14. Tealicious Cakes, Willunga
Step back in time for a proper high tea or a fancy cupcake. The kids will love the home-style pink lemonade and the occasion of it all.
15. The Arts Centre, Port Noarlunga + Adelaide Biplanes, Aldinga Airfield
Two contrasting ways to spend a morning: browse local art at the Port Noarlunga Arts Centre, or head to Aldinga Airfield to watch vintage biplanes take off and land from the on-site café.
Both free to visit (café purchases at the airfield)
Plan Your Visit
McLaren Vale and the Fleurieu Coast is about 45 minutes south of Adelaide's CBD — close enough for a day trip, with enough to fill a whole week if you're staying locally.
Getting around: Most attractions are within a short drive of McLaren Vale township. The Coast to Vines Rail Trail connects several key spots if you're on bikes.
Where to stay: The region has a strong short-stay rental market. Book ahead for July — it fills up.
Last updated: June 2026 Opening hours and details are subject to change — we recommend checking directly with each venue before visiting.
