South Australia is a road tripper’s paradise. From rugged coastlines and pristine beaches to world-class wine regions and outback adventures, this state offers an incredible variety of landscapes and experiences—all within driving distance. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a multi-day expedition, hiring a car from Trend Rentals gives you the freedom to explore South Australia on your own terms.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the top summer road trips across SA, complete with route highlights, travel tips, and interlinks to help you plan your journey.
🌿 1. Adelaide Hills: Cool Escapes Close to the City
Distance from Adelaide: 30–60 minutes Ideal for: Day trips, wine lovers, nature seekers
Just a short drive from Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills offer a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Wind through charming towns like Hahndorf, Stirling, and Aldgate, where you’ll find German bakeries, boutique wineries, and lush gardens.
Highlights:
- Mount Lofty Summit for panoramic views
- Cleland Wildlife Park to meet kangaroos and koalas
- Wine tasting in Lenswood and Balhannah
Rental Tip: Choose a compact SUV from Trend Rentals’ business fleet for easy navigation through winding hills and village streets.
🏖️ 2. Fleurieu Peninsula Loop: Beaches, Wine & Wildlife
Distance from Adelaide: 1–2 hours Ideal for: Families, beach lovers, foodies
The Fleurieu Peninsula is a summer dream. Start in McLaren Vale for wine tasting, then head to Victor Harbor for coastal views and wildlife encounters. Continue to Port Elliot and Goolwa for laid-back beach vibes and water activities.
Highlights:
- Horse-drawn tram to Granite Island
- Surfing at Middleton Beach
- Coorong National Park kayaking
Rental Tip: Book a family-friendly vehicle with extra boot space from Trend Rentals’ site spec fleet for beach gear and picnic supplies.
🍇 3. Barossa Valley: Gourmet Road Trip
Distance from Adelaide: 1.5 hours Ideal for: Couples, wine enthusiasts, luxury travelers
The Barossa Valley is synonymous with world-class wine and gourmet indulgence. With over 80 cellar doors, it’s perfect for a relaxed summer road trip. Enjoy scenic drives through vineyards, heritage towns, and rolling hills.
Highlights:
- Wine tasting at Penfolds, Seppeltsfield, and Jacob’s Creek
- Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop
- Hot air ballooning at sunrise
Rental Tip: Opt for a premium sedan or luxury SUV from Trend Rentals for a smooth and stylish ride.
🏜️ 4. Flinders Ranges: Outback Adventure
Distance from Adelaide: 5–6 hours Ideal for: Adventure seekers, photographers, hikers
For a true outback experience, head north to the Flinders Ranges. Summer mornings are perfect for exploring rugged landscapes, ancient gorges, and Aboriginal rock art. Stay in eco-lodges or camp under the stars.
Highlights:
- Wilpena Pound hiking trails
- Brachina Gorge geological drive
- Arkaroo Rock Aboriginal art site
Rental Tip: Hire a 4WD from Trend Rentals’ mine-spec fleet for off-road capability and safety features.
🐨 5. Kangaroo Island: Nature’s Playground
Distance from Adelaide: 2 hours + ferry Ideal for: Wildlife lovers, families, nature photographers
Kangaroo Island is a sanctuary of wildlife and natural beauty. From seal colonies and koalas to dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches, it’s a must-visit summer destination.
Highlights:
- Flinders Chase National Park
- Seal Bay Conservation Park
- Vivonne Bay and Stokes Bay beaches
Rental Tip: Book early and choose a vehicle with ferry clearance. Trend Rentals recommends early booking during peak season.
🏝️ 6. Yorke Peninsula: Coastal Bliss
Distance from Adelaide: 2–3 hours Ideal for: Fishing trips, beach camping, surfing
The Yorke Peninsula offers stunning beaches, historic towns, and excellent fishing spots. It’s perfect for a relaxed summer road trip with plenty of swimming and seafood.
Highlights:
- Innes National Park
- Moonta Bay and Wallaroo
- Surfing at Daly Head
Rental Tip: Choose a ute or camper-style vehicle from Trend Rentals for gear storage and off-grid camping.
🏞️ 7. Limestone Coast: Caves, Lakes & Wine
Distance from Adelaide: 4–5 hours Ideal for: Explorers, divers, wine lovers
The Limestone Coast is home to unique geological wonders and cool-climate wines. Visit Mount Gambier for its famous Blue Lake and sinkholes, then explore Coonawarra wine country.
Highlights:
- Umpherston Sinkhole
- Blue Lake scenic drive
- Naracoorte Caves World Heritage Site
Rental Tip: A fuel-efficient sedan from Trend Rentals is ideal for long-distance travel.
🐬 8. Eyre Peninsula: Seafood & Surf
Distance from Adelaide: 7–8 hours Ideal for: Foodies, divers, road trip enthusiasts
The Eyre Peninsula is a hidden gem with dramatic coastlines, fresh seafood, and marine adventures. Swim with sea lions, dive with great white sharks, or simply enjoy the seafood trail.
Highlights:
- Coffin Bay oysters
- Shark cage diving in Port Lincoln
- Whalers Way scenic drive
Rental Tip: For long-haul comfort, choose a spacious SUV or van from Trend Rentals.
🧭 Road Trip Essentials
Before you hit the road, make sure you’re prepared:
- Book early: Summer is peak season. Trend Rentals recommends booking in advance to secure your preferred vehicle.
- Pack smart: Sunscreen, water, maps, and chargers are must-haves.
- Check vehicle specs: For remote areas, ensure your rental includes safety gear like UHF radios and fire extinguishers.
- Use GPS and apps: Download offline maps and fuel station locators.
🛣️ Why Rent with Trend Rentals?
Trend Rentals offers a wide range of vehicles tailored to South Australian conditions:
- Site-spec and mine-spec vehicles for rugged terrain
- Business and family-friendly cars for urban and coastal trips
- Flexible hire options with remote delivery and full fit-outs
- Expert support and maintenance for peace of mind
Explore their fleet at trendrentals.com.au and start planning your summer road trip today.