Image: Emma Jane Warren
Looking for a beach walkway that
isn't crowded with people, but still provides the
gorgeous ocean scenery that you desire?
The answer is the Carrickalinga Esplanade Walking Trail.
The path begins on the side of Gold Coast Drive, near Bennett Street. It continues alongside the same road for about 2.5km (making it a 5km return walk). As you drive by, you'll see there are a few different car parks where you can begin your walk and leave the car safely.
Image: Emma Jane Warren
Along the path, you'll get wonderful views of the clean, white shore at Carrickalinga. In Spring, colourful sunflowers bloom beside the walking path and add flavour to the area.
If at any point, you get bored at watching the beach, you can turn the other way and ogle at the incredible architectural mansions that have prime real estate on the beach front.
Image: Emma Jane Warren
Towards the Northern end of the track, the path becomes quite skinny and goes around the edge of the Carrickalinga Point cliff. If you are not wearing appropriate shoes (with sturdy grip) or aren't confident with heights or walking, then I suggest you do not walk around this area. It is very dangerous as the narrow path is directly on the edge, and just a small slip could result in serious injury.
If you do make it around the cliff, then you'll be able to overlook a small and scenic bay at the end of the trail. It's a very rural spot to stop and reflect. (And get some rare photos)
Image: Emma Jane Warren
Carrickalinga is not a well-known suburb on the Fleurieu Peninsula. It isn't as 'tourist-developed' as other regions. Most people only travel there if they have a home or holiday house in the area. However, this is what makes the beach so peaceful and serene. It is a clean, untouched beach that is rarely busy.
Image: Emma Jane Warren
The suburb of Carrickalinga is located is a small country town on the coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula. It is 60km South of Adelaide and overlooks the Gulf St Vincent.
There are no shops or major facilities in Carrickalinga. There is simply the beach, some homes, the walking trail. If you need to use facilities such as toilets and supermarkets, the nearest town is Normanville. This is only a few kilometres South down Carrickalinga Road.
A car is the best mode of transit to get to Carrickalinga, as public buses do not cover the area.
Image: Emma Jane Warren
