Limestone Coast Attractions
The shipwreck coast
Water plays a big part in Limestone Coast history, a really BIG part.
The Coorong is truly unique. It has 100 kilometres of saline, shallow lagoons, separated from the wild Southern Ocean by massive sand dunes.
The sea off the Limestone Coast is certainly big, so it's no surprise that more than 100 ships have sunk around here. Take a fascinating tour along the rugged and beautiful coast that is now known as the Southern Ocean Shipwreck Trail.
Lighthouses and lobsters
The Beachport Jetty is one of the world’s longest jetties, while Kingston South East lays claim to one of the world’s largest crustaceans. The Big Lobster (Larry to the locals) stands 17 metres tall and weighs more than four tonnes!
Six lighthouses mark some really treacherous stretches of the Limestone Coast. The waves show no mercy and you’ll notice the effects of erosion on each lighthouse. Some may eventually fall into the sea (like the original Cape Northumberland lighthouse), so make sure you visit one.
Fossils, lakes and caves
The Limestone Coast’s incredible geology is responsible for some spectacular sights. Not many can beat the world heritage listed Naracoorte Cave fossils.
Dissolved minerals created both Mount Gambier’s stunning Blue Lake and Beachport’s super-salty Pool of Siloam.
Visit another dormant volcano at Mount Schank or go diving and explore the garden-like Ewens Ponds and caves at Piccaninnie Ponds.
For something more genteel, stroll round one of the 17 golf courses, including the picturesque 18 hole Blue Lake course.
If you are up for an adventure, try a helicopter tour with Limestone Coast Helicopters. See Robe from the sky and fly over Boudin Island.
Heritage and history
The Limestone Coast has a rich cultural history. Australia's first saint, Mary MacKillop founded the first Josephite School in Penola. Sir Robert Helpmann, a dancer, actor and director was born in Mount Gambier. Dingley Dell was home to Adam Lindsay Gordon, the only Australian poet with a bust in Westminster Abbey. He published his first book in Mount Gambier.
Indigenous history is abundant. A classic example are the “middens” seen around the coast. These are mounds of cockle shells discarded by countless generations of Aboriginal dwellers.
Wine regions
The Limestone Coast is home to the Coonawarra, Wrattonbully, Mount Benson and Padthaway wine regions. There are more than 40 cellar doors to choose from.
Tour the Limestone Coast - it’s big, bold and beautiful.
Things to do
Here are some great ideas for you to try while you’re in the area.
What's on
There are plenty of events on in the Limestone Coast. Here are some ideas you might like.
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