Port Gawler

Port Gawler is the start of the Samphire Coast, which follows Gulf St Vincent north and then around to Port Clinton.

The Samphire Coast is great for those interested in bird life and has the state's third and fourth best areas for shore birds. It is here that the Gawler River enters Gulf St Vincent via a small delta and is very popular for crabbers, fishers and bird watchers with some great viewing spots.

Port Gawler was once a booming town due to its wharf and surrounding grain areas. Today it is well known for crabbing and has the only off-road hire park for motor bikes, four wheel drive vehicles and go-carts in South Australia.

Just a half hour drive north of Adelaide, if you love crabs this is the perfect spot to catch your fill. All you need to grab a feed of plump blue swimmers is a crab rake, crab measure, plastic tub and a pair of old sneakers. The idea is to get there about an hour before low tide, then follow the water back in after the tide turns.