Semaphore Amusement Park

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Posted 2013-03-05 by Dave Walsh ⇒ follow

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Semaphore is one of the most popular beaches in Adelaide, and on a summer day you will find crowds of people enjoying themselves there.

There's a clean sandy beach, a lawn reserve with shaded picnic areas and a kiosk, and the Semaphore jetty to explore.

Most importantly there is also an amusement park in the reserve, located between the Semaphore jetty and the Palais Hotel. Many say it's the top amusement park in Adelaide, although fans of the Glenelg Beach House may want to dispute that.

During the summer school holidays finding things to do in Adelaide can be difficult if you have children, but you're pretty much guaranteed to find things they will love to do at Semaphore.

It is often a family affair, with sometimes two or three generations of the family all coming out to make a day of it - very handy for harried parents needing a break.

And at the end of the day, you can watch the sun set over the sea in a blaze of colour before heading home.

[SECTION]The Semaphore Carousel[/SECTION]

The Carousel is one of Adelaide's oldest beachside attractions, having been at Semaphore since 1938.

Its magical merry-go-round with 40 hand crafted horses is an instant winner for small children, while adults marvel at the intricate decorations and careful carving that went into making this unique ride.

The Carousel is open every weekend, and on public and school holidays (excluding Christmas Day) – from:11.30am to 3.30pm. During Summer school holidays they are open until mid evening, but are closed in bad weather or if extremely hot. (Times are approximate)

The Carousel is a great location for private parties or special functions too - contact 0430 878257 or find them on Facebook if you need more information.

[SECTION]Semaphore Waterslide Complex[/SECTION]

The water slide at Semaphore is a top amusement attraction, together with a Ferris wheel, mini golf course and bouncy castle.

During the summer months the air is full of children's screams as they fly down the water slide or jump high in the air in the bouncy castle.

The Waterslide Complex is open during all school and public holidays (except Christmas), from 10.30 until at least 5.30. During summer it is usually open much later - check times on their website or by calling (08) 8449 6323.

You can find it across the road from the former Semaphore Coffee Palace , just near to the Palais Hotel.

[SECTION]Semaphore Summer Carnival[/SECTION]

During the Summer school holidays an extra group of popular rides comes to Semaphore - the Hurricane, the Cha cha, the ever popular Dodgem Cars, and sideshows like Clowning Around.

These special summer rides and sideshows are located just south of the Carousel, close to the jetty.

These days the younger generation seem almost relaxed on rides like the Cha cha.

But the thought of being strapped down and flung into the sky with ten other people makes my stomach a little unsettled. Just as well Semaphore is well served by hotels where one can settle and revive oneself.

Rides usually open from 11am during the summer school holidays only, and closing time depends on the weather. More information is available from Greg on 0418 827251

[SECTION]Semaphore Steam Train[/SECTION]

The National Railway Museum operate a 2km long railway from Semaphore to Fort Glanville using steam locomotive Bill.

It is immensely popular with small children, and the train gives great views as you travel along the beach front.

As part of the National Railway Museum's 50th anniversary celebrations, there are some special activities planned for Semaphore - read here for more information.

For more information about operating times and prices for the Semaphore to Fort Glanville tourist railway, click here .