Carrickalinga

(Kaurna name: Karragadlangga – red gum firewood place) 

79 kilometres from Adelaide 

Tucked between rolling hills and quiet bays, Carrickalinga is the kind of place that slips under the radar — and that’s just how locals like it. In summer, its white sands and rock pools call the barefoot wanderers. But in winter, this quiet coastal village takes on a moody stillness, where the sky seems bigger and the nights come alive with stars.

Certified as an International Dark Sky Community, Carrickalinga is one of the rare places where you can truly see the Milky Way. Bring a blanket, lie back, and watch the universe put on a show.

By day, take the walking or cycling trail that winds toward Normanville — hugging the coast, with sweeping views over Roma Mitchell Bay and Yankalilla Bay. Or approach from the north, weaving past Myponga Reservoir and pausing at the Forktree Road lookout — a moment of stillness high above the sea.

Carrickalinga is a reminder that beauty doesn’t need a crowd. Just time, space, and a sky full of stars.