Moana Beach is a sweeping stretch of golden sand on the Fleurieu Peninsula, just 40 minutes south of Adelaide. Fringed by towering Norfolk Island pines, this west-facing beach offers superb snorkelling over seagrass meadows and along a rocky intertidal reef teeming with marine life. Its unique drive-on sand (seasonal permit required) makes it easy to set up right by the water. Patrolled by lifesavers from November to March, Moana is a family-friendly spot where swimmers, surfers, and snorkelers share the coastal vibe against spectacular sunset views.
Moana Beach
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Wave Height 0.4 mSwell Period 6.5 sWind Speed 1.5 knPrecipitation 15 mmTidal Phase ebb
Last evaluated
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Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Low risk: Vehicle traffic on beach
Cars are permitted on the sand with a beach pass; swimmers and snorkelers should remain aware of vehicle movements, especially near entry and exit points.
Low risk: Surf conditions and rips
As a west-facing open beach, Moana can experience moderate swells and rip currents, particularly during onshore winds. Swim between the flags in patrolled areas (Nov–Mar).
Low risk: Cold water temperatures
Southern Ocean waters remain cool year-round (12–18°C); wetsuit recommended for snorkelling comfort and safety.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
1 photo from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
40-minute drive south of Adelaide via Main South Road (A13). Turn onto the Main Road through McLaren Vale, then follow the signs to Moana Beach.
Parking & facilities
Ample roadside parking along the foreshore. A seasonal beach driving permit (available from the Onkaparinga Council) allows certain vehicles to park directly on the sand.
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Free beach access. Beach driving permit required (fee applies) for vehicles on the sand.
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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