Picture Perfect Port Noarlunga

Words and Images (various) - Dressed in Copper

Port Noarlunga, or Porties as the locals call it, is one of my favourite seaside towns on the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast. It still has that laid back, old school town charm but it’s been injected with plenty of new life by the way of cafes, restaurants and boutique shops. 

Not just for adults, Porties is also one of the best locations for kids. It’s always a go to for me and my girlfriends when we have little ones in tow and when you visit, you’ll understand why. 

Have kids with LOADS of energy? Visit the Jubilee Park Adventure Playground (the wooden playground).The playground has been around for yonks and is super popular. With BBQ facilities, toilets and plenty of lawned area, it makes it a great spot to play, have birthday parties or family lunches. There’s also a coffee van that visits so parents can keep sane. Happy days.  

Have kids that love the ocean? Well Port Noarlunga Beach is a no brainer. White sand, patrolled beaches in summer, shallow rockpools, a reef to explore out the end of the jetty. Bring your flippers and snorkel and check out the fish in all their glory. Don’t have a snorkel - well Colonnades is only 5 minutes away and you can score yourself a set for $10 from Kmart. Further along the beach towards the mouth at South Port, you’ll find surfers and paddle boarding, as well as one hell of a view, especially at sunset. On the river itself you can try your hand at a spot of canoeing, paddle boarding or you can even throw a hand reel in. Local company Easy Kayaks offer hire of kayaks and stand up paddle boards, with lessons for paddle boarding also available.  

Have kids that love shopping? Or will tolerate being taken to the shops? Porties is full of beautiful boutiques, with everything from clothing, homewares and locally made goods.  

Have kids that say ‘mum I’m HUNGRY”. They have you covered for food. Cafe’s Agatha's Food Store and Coffee Factory both have kids' options and a variety of foods on offer. Agatha's makes a mean milkshake and the baby chinos are next level. Beck’s Bakehouse is a sure winner if you’re after something a bit more low key. In summer there’s lines out the door- believe me, their hot food is worth it. It’s also obligatory to get a cream bun or donut from there as they are some of the best in the south. Port Burger dish up amazing burgers and their place is very family friendly- a huge lawn area and sandpit are perfect for the kids. Or who can go past the iconic fish and chips on the beach. The local chippy always serves up a feast, just be sure to keep the seagulls at bay. 

Have kids that love to wander? Or have a pram in tow? Grab a coffee in the centre of town and follow the path from the town centre, past the wooden playground and up towards South Port. The paths are concreted, wide and perfect for prams and kids on scooters. 

Have kids that love ice-cream? Who doesn’t? Royal Copenhagen is open for business and that makes me very happy!  

Have kids that love sleepovers? Even if you live in SA, there's no better place to take a staycation. Coast Motel and Apartments have some awesome family friendly self-contained studios with some of the best views getting around.  

No matter the time of year, you’ll always find something to keep you busy at Port Noarlunga. 

Discover more seaside villages to visit and don’t forget to tag us in your captures using #valeandcoast #Route31coastaldrive