Getting around South Australia transport options
South Australia’s state capital, Adelaide, is a cosmopolitan city that’s well connected to both domestic and international travel routes – but some of the state’s most breath-taking landscapes lie beyond the city limits. Distances between major tourist attractions can quickly add up, but don’t let this deter you – we’ve got planes, cars, coaches and boats to take you wherever you want to go on your ultimate South Australian adventure.
It’s absolutely possible to see the best of SA with limited time, and without straying too far from the city. While public transport options exist between some regional areas and Adelaide, travel around South Australia is best experienced either with a hire car, in your own vehicle or organised through private providers. There are even opportunities to hire equipment like tents, kayaks and caravans so you can explore any way you like. Discover all transport and hire options here and get ready to experience South Australia’s diverse landscapes.
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By Car
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By Air
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By Boat
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By Coach
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By Caravan
By Car
If you're looking for the freedom to explore South Australia at your own pace, the best option for you is hiring or driving your own vehicle.
South Australia is connected with a network of well maintained roads, making it possible to reach even the most remote corners of the state. While roads between regional centres are generally sealed, you'll find many unsealed roads if you're planning to explore remote regional areas. If you're planning to travel further afield, consider whether you need a four-wheel drive.
Road conditions change rapidly, especially in outback areas. Visit our alerts page before setting off to monitor conditions and make sure to carry ample supplies. Remember, distances can be significant, so plan your journeys accordingly, take regular breaks and enjoy the stunning scenery along the way.
Hiring a car is straightforward, with numerous rental agencies available at Adelaide Airport and throughout major towns.
By Air
There are two airlines that travel within South Australia commercially: Rex and Qantas.
At the time of writing, Qantas operates routes from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island, Whyalla, Mount Gambier and Port Lincoln, while Rex flies to Coober Pedy, Ceduna, Port Lincoln and Mount Gambier. Please note, flight routes and availability are subject to change. For up-to-date flight information please consult the airline's website.
Looking for domestic or international flights to South Australia? Head to our fly to Adelaide page for more information.
Private flights
There are a number of private operators offering everything from scenic flights to private charters.
Platinum Aircraft Charter is based in Adelaide and provides aviation services all over Australia, Chinta Air Tours specialise in scenic flights and air tours throughout South Australia and the Australian Outback, Airtours offers authentic experiences alongside travel between destinations and Air Adventure Australia organises air safaris for those who want to get off the beaten track with an expert guide.
By Boat
Less than two hours drive from Adelaide, the SeaLink ferry can transport you and your car across to Kangaroo Island. There are scheduled departures each day with extra services during peak times.
If you are travelling to the state's west, you can take the Spencer Gulf Searoad vehicle and passenger ferry to connect you from the Yorke Peninsula to the Eyre Peninsula. The ferry cuts between the two peninsula's and saves saves a long drive around the Gulf, departing Wallaroo on the Yorke Peninsula and arriving at Lucky Bay on the Eyre. While the ferry schedule varies seasonally, there is usually one ferry a day operating for travellers. Fares range from $36 for walk on adult passengers and $165 dollars for a vehicle - with additional fees for caravans and motor homes.
Another popular way to explore South Australia is to slowly meander down the Murray River on a houseboat. With a drivers licence being all you need to take the helm and many different houseboats available to rent or charter, it's one of the best ways to explore the Murray River Lakes and Coorong and Riverland regions.
By Coach
All interstate and regional coaches arrive and depart from the Central Bus Station at 85 Franklin Street in Adelaide's CBD.
Greyhound Coaches has connections to Adelaide from most major Australian cities, and is a great option for those travelling north to outback South Australia.
LinkSA operates routes in and out of Adelaide, as well as a number of routes between regional centres in the Adelaide Hills, the Riverland, the Barossa Valley and the Fleurieu Peninsula.
Sealink runs coaches to and from the Cape Jervis ferry terminal, connecting with the ferry to Kangaroo Island. As well as operating this ferry, Sealink also offers tours to a range of regional South Australian destinations.
Stateliner coach routes connect Adelaide with major regional centres like Renmark in the Riverland, Mount Gambier on the Limestone Coast and Ceduna or Port Lincoln on the Eyre Peninsula. These routes pass through most regions and towns in South Australia, and are a great way to explore the far-flung corners of the state.
Peninsula Coaches service the Yorke Peninsula and the Copper Coast, with new routes operating between Adelaide, Port Lincoln and Kangaroo island.
By Caravan
Much like exploring by car, caravanning or campervanning offers the freedom and flexibility to explore South Australia at your own pace. But having your accommodation on wheels also gives you opportunity to experience a side of South Australia that's rarely seen by travellers; think waking up to private coastal vistas, the quiet serenity of the outback or ancient limestone cliffs glowing at sunrise.
There's no doubt that caravanning or campervanning in South Australia is a magical experience – however, it's important to be prepared.
While South Australia boasts many excellent campgrounds with amenities like showers, toilets, and power, remote areas may have limited facilities. If you're planning to sleep in more remote locations, make sure you have enough water with you for an overnight stay. Dump points for grey and black water are available at many caravan parks, rest areas, and some towns.
Planning your route in advance is recommended, especially in remote areas. Make sure to check weather conditions and road closures, and remember that many caravans and campervans will not be suitable for off-road driving
Getting here Transport to South Australia
Still haven't decided the best way to start your trip to South Australia? Depending on how much time you have, you could drive from interstate and jump straight into one of our scenic road trips. If you're looking to start your journey in Adelaide, jump on a flight and land just 6km away from the city center at Adelaide Airport. Get more information on transport options, and the best ways to travel to South Australia, here.
Go your own way Car and Campervan Hire
Want to explore South Australia at your own pace? Hiring a car or campervan and hitting the open road is the best way to experience the rugged beauty of South Australia's regions. Even if you're not planning to venture far from Adelaide, having your own vehicle gives you access to parts of the state that just can't be accessed on public transport or on a tour.
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HireHireAdelaide
Travel in comfort Chauffeur services & private tours
If you're planning to kick back and relax on your travels through South Australia, then a private tour or chauffeur is a great option. Get the freedom of your own car without the stress of navigating a new place - it's a win-win.
Boat hire and charters
Despite (or maybe because of) South Australia's arid landscapes, some of the states most popular activities are water based. From floating down the Murray River on a houseboat to fishing on the Eyre peninsula, there are so many ways to get out onto the water in South Australia.
Slow and scenic Bike hire in South Australia
While exercise on holiday isn't everyone's cup of tea, South Australia is home to countless stunning trails that are best experienced on two wheels.
Driving in South Australia
If you are visiting from overseas, or you've moved here permanently, make sure that you are driving legally and safely. If you are just visiting Australia, you can drive the same type of vehicle as your current licence allows, but you must drive according to any conditions on your overseas licence. You will need either one of these:
- a current licence issued in another country that is written in English
- a current licence with an English translation if necessary or an international driver's licence (see below)
- International drivers licence. See full information on the South Australian Government website
Mandatory documentation includes:
- Ensure you carry your licence documents at all times when driving and produce these and your passport to police on request
- You must not be disqualified from driving in any country
- If your overseas licence expires while you are in Australia, you must get an Australian licence.
- Your international driving permit (IDP) must be issued by the same country that issued your driver's licence. The permit verifies in several languages that you have a valid driver's licence
- Drive on the left in Australia
- There are many dirt, gravel and unsealed roads in the outback and other regions, including Kangaroo Island
- Extra precaution should be taken when driving in these conditions and the appropriate insurance should be purchased
- Check with your car hire company to make sure you can take your hire car on dirt roads
- You should avoid driving between dusk and dawn, and in poor weather when outside city areas. Kangaroos, emus and koalas are known to wander into traffic unexpectedly, particularly in low light
- Visit our driving in the Flinders Ranges and Outback page for safety information and tips
- The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Australia for a fully-licenced driver is under 0.05.
- South Australian Police operate mobile drug and breath testing units year-round. It is an offence to drive with a BAC over 0.05. For more information, visit the Legal Services Commission website.
Travel Information and FAQs
Prepare for your trip to South Australia by checking out our range of resources to help you plan the perfect visit to SA. From regional visitor guides to sustainable tour operators, learn about the best ways to get to South Australia, where to find physical information centres and how to stay safe on our roads and in our regions.