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
Your March long weekend, sorted: five ways to make the most of McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast
March long weekend is one of our favourites — warm weather, sunny skies and three full days to get out and enjoy everything McLaren Vale and Coast has to offer. Here are our top five things to do.
1. Head to the beach
With 31km of white sandy beaches, turquoise water and cliff backdrops, there’s a patch of sand calling your name.
- For surfers: Seaford, Southport or Moana
- For snorkelling and scuba diving: Port Noarlunga Reef (easy access from the jetty or the beach)
- For scenery: Port Willunga — iconic and genuinely beautiful
- For an easy, no-hauling-everything day: Sellicks, Aldinga and Moana are drive-on beaches, so you can bring the shade tent, towels and snacks without the trek.
Wherever you go, slip, slop and slap — and check the surf conditions before you head out if you’re taking little ones in.
2. Visit a cellar door (or two)
With more than 90 cellar doors to choose from across McLaren Vale, there’s plenty to suit your pace and taste.
- Classic wine lovers: d’Arenberg Cube, Wirra Wirra, Coriole
- Something boutique: Bondar, Lino Ramble, Samuel’s Gorge
- Ocean views: Berg Herring
- A social vibe: Down the Rabbit Hole, Chalk Hill
- Something relaxed: Shadow Creek, Main & Cherry
Long weekends are popular — we’d recommend booking your tasting or lunch ahead of time to avoid missing out. Most cellar doors are open across the full weekend but spots fill fast. (image SATC)
3. Long lunch
Good food, a glass of wine, long conversations and an afternoon to remember. This is what long weekends are made for.
- For a slice of Italy: Vigna Bottin, Pizzatecca, Our Place
- Good honest food: The Vale Tap House, Wirra Wirra, Salopian Inn, d’Arry’s Verandah, Coriole, The Currant Shed, Angove
- Something special: Maxwell Wines, Mitolo + Little Wolf Osteria
Bookings are strongly recommended across the long weekend — don’t leave it to chance on the day.
4. Watch the sunset
When was the last time you stopped and watched a sunset? If you can’t remember, it’s time. Pack a picnic blanket, a cold drink and your camera.
- Sellicks: Sit at the top of the cliffs, or park on the beach and roll out your blanket. The light brings out the colours in the rugged cliffs as the sun drops — and dolphins do cruise past sometimes.
- Southport: The steps are one of the most photographed spots in South Australia. You’ll often get pink skies, bright water and the Onkaparinga River meeting the sea.
- Moana: Big views down the coast and surfers chasing “one last wave” as the light fades.
Snap your favourite moment and tag us — we love seeing the long weekend through your eyes. 📷 (image Toursim Australia)
5. Go shopping
A long weekend is the perfect excuse to browse somewhere new.
- Gorgeous Soles (McLaren Vale): Footwear and clothing — you’ll find a whole new outfit ready for a winery long lunch.
- Coco & Raj (Willunga): The shop where you’ll find something unique and everyone asks where you got it from. Kookery just up the road is another great stop for foodie gifts and kitchenware.
- Gladys on Sea (Aldinga): A fashion-lover’s dream — great brands, plus a bargain table worth a look.
- Botanista (Port Noarlunga): A botanical emporium for terrariums, plants and gifting.
Three days, warm weather and one of South Australia’s most loved regions on your doorstep — there’s really no better way to spend a March long weekend. However you choose to fill it, we hope it’s a good one.
