Carrickalinga Head is a rocky headland sanctuary zone on the western Fleurieu Peninsula, just north of the Carrickalinga township and roughly an hour south of Adelaide. Accessible via a zig-zag series of wooden steps from a Gold Coast Drive parking area, the site features a protected bay, rocky ledges, shallow reef, and vibrant rock pools. The sanctuary status means marine life is abundant, with healthy algal cover, encrusting sponges, and sea squirts adorning the underwater ledges. The turquoise waters and scenic coastal trail make this a hidden gem for snorkelers seeking a tranquil, nature-immersed experience away from crowds.
Carrickalinga Head
IntermediateMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.4 mSwell Period 5.8 sWind Speed 1.5 knPrecipitation 20 mmTidal Phase ebb
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Low risk: Cold water temperatures
Water is cold even in warmer months; a wetsuit is recommended for comfort and safety.
Low risk: Rocky entry
Entry points are over rocky ledges and boulders rather than a sandy beach, requiring careful footing.
Low risk: Variable visibility
Visibility can vary significantly depending on swell and recent weather conditions.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
1 photo from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Drive south from Adelaide on the M1/A13 towards Myponga. Just south of Myponga, turn onto Forktree Road and follow the sweeping descent into Carrickalinga. Turn north onto Gold Coast Drive and park at the designated area near the rocky headland. A zig-zag series of wooden steps leads down to the beach and snorkel entry points.
Parking & facilities
Small parking area along Gold Coast Drive adjacent to the headland. Limited spaces — arrive early on weekends and holidays.
parking
Free
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Gallery ┬╖ 1 photos
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports