Goolwa, a town rich in heritage and once a thriving riverport of the 1800's, tells its stories today in the preserved historic buildings and relics. Art galleries, cafes and B&Bs abound, alongside the many diverse natural gems the town has to offer.
With fresh and salt water, Goolwa is a mecca for the keen angler or boating enthusiast. A starting point for a day or multi-day trip into the Coorong National Park or River Murray. Goolwa offers a range of activities from bike paths and beaches to waterside cafes or garden galleries.
Did you know Goolwa is Australia's first Cittaslow town? Click here to find out more about Cittaslow.
Goolwa Visitor Information Centre
Click here to download a Goolwa Town Map
Click here for Goolwa Wharf Webcam
Click here for information on Heritage Walks Goolwa
Town Highlights
Goolwa Wharf and PS Oscar W
Discover the Historic Riverport of Goolwa in the Goolwa Riverboat Centre and cruise the lower River Murray on this unique 1908 wood fired heritage paddlesteamer. To learn more about the magnificent PS Oscar W book a cruise here
- Above: The PS Oscar W moored at the Goolwa Wharf
Cockle Train
Since 1887, passenger trains operating along the coast from Goolwa to Victor Harbor have been affectionately known as 'The Cockle Train'. The section of line between Goolwa and Port Elliot was the first steel railway built in Australia.
The Cockle Train operates every Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday, public holidays and daily during South Australian school holidays. Book the Cockle Train experience today or contact the Goolwa Visitor Information Centre for further details, phone 1300 466 592.
- Above: The Cockle Train, Goolwa Wharf Precinct
Coorong National Park
The Coorong National Park is one of South Australia's best eco experience locations. With an abundance of wild life Goolwa is the ideal place to set off for your Coorong Cruise or canoeing adventure. Visit the Mouth of the Murray River, see abundant bird life and marvel at this magnificent environment. Book a Coorong boat or kayak tour here.
- Above: The Coorong, Goolwa - Photo Credit: SATC
Goolwa Barrage
The Goolwa Barrage was built in 1940 to separate the freshwater of the Murray River from the Saltwater of the Coorong and Southern Ocean. Free BBQs, picnic grounds and pleasant bird watching.
- Above: The Goolwa Barrage - Photo Credit: Muhammad Rashid
Goolwa Beach
Goolwa Beach is ideal for swimming, surfing, walking, running, playing and digging for Cockles (Cockle season 1st November - 31st May). With a large carpark, cafe, amenities and nearby boardwalk this is an ideal spot for the family.
- Above: Goolwa Beach
- Above: Bombora's, Goolwa Beach - Photo Credit: SATC
Encounter Bikeway
A shared trail from Laffin Point in Goolwa via the coastal towns of Middleton and Port Elliot to Victor Harbor. When the Cockle Train runs you can ride your bike in one direction and catch the train back. Download the Encounter Bikeway map here .
- Above: The Encounter Bikeway - Photo Credit: SATC
- Above: Sailboats, Goolwa
- Above: The Australiasian Circa 1858, Goolwa - Photo Credit: Andy Rasheed