The coastal town of Glenelg is a local favorite, ideal for swimming, dining and entertainment. When Europeans first settled in South Australia in 1836, they chose the sandy white shores of Holdfast Bay to build their homes. Almost 180 years later, the town they formed, Glenelg, remains one of the most popular coastal regions in the state.

Take the last remaining tram in Adelaide from the CBD and you’ll be dropped at the Glenelg shore in just 20 minutes. This centrally located spot at the end of Jetty Road is the perfect starting point to explore the streets and beach with ease.

Glenelg is perfect for all kinds of beach lovers. Find a quiet spot to relax with a book, entertain the kids at The Beachouse amusement park, or simply refresh yourself in the calm blue water. Glenelg’s Surf Life Saving Club provides peace of mind with supervised swimming available between the red-and-yellow flags. Further down the beach you’ll find a number of spots to surf. Take a swim in Holdfast Bay and you may find you have the company of the local dolphins. There are a number of chartered trips available from town.

Dry off as you take a walk down the historic Glenelg jetty. While the original was destroyed by storms in 1948, its replacement remains the centerpiece of Glenelg Beach. At 705 feet (215 meters) it’s the perfect length to work up an appetite so that when you return to land you’ll be ready to try one of Glenelg’s culinary hot spots.

Bustling Jetty Road is Glenelg’s shopping and cultural precinct. By day, this area is perfect for a boutique shopping experience. Take in a gallery or two, and grab a coffee at one of the many cafés. As night falls, the mood changes and the street comes alive with the excited chatter of diners at Glenelg’s premier restaurants. The sounds of live music drift from the doors of Jetty Road’s many bars.

Glenelg is located 5.6 miles (nine kilometers) from central Adelaide and can be accessed by tram, car or bicycle via one of two dedicated bike paths.