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South Australia

Escape the frenzy of Australia's east coast with a few days in gracious, relaxed South Australia (SA). The driest state in the planet's driest inhabited continent, SA beats the heat by celebrating life's finer things: fine landscapes, fine festivals, fine food, and (…OK, forget the other three) fine wine.

It's true – almost everywhere you go in SA you'll find cellar doors vying for your attention. Succumb to temptation in SA's famous wine regions: the Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, Coonawarra, McLaren Vale and the Adelaide Hills. But don't miss Kangaroo Island's wildlife and seafood; big-sky, wild-west landscapes on the Yorke and Eyre peninsulas; the photogenic Flinders Ranges; the fertile terrain around the snaking Murray River; and the craggy shores and caves in the beach-strewn Limestone Coast. At the heart of it all, Adelaide delivers as many high-brow festivals as it does dive bars.

Explore South Australia

Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout South Australia.

Guidebooks

Learn more about South Australia

Uncover the heart of travel and be inspired to see new sights with one of Lonely Planet’s in-depth, award-winning guidebooks.