Onkaparinga’s Encore program serves up great beachside, pop-up entertainment this summer.
Markets, bars, live music, local food and a traditional Finnish sauna are on offer.
At Christies Beach, The Salty Finn Sauna combines soothing views of the ocean while you bask in the rich cedar aroma and 70°C heat of the timber-clad interior.
Sauna owner and manager Kate Firmager says her passion for Finnish culture stems from her grandparents who migrated to Australia in the 1950s.
“Sauna was a normal part of our childhood and, after spending some time in Finland as an adult, I started to explore ways to bring the experience of traditional sauna home to Australia,” she says.
“In Finland, the best part of sauna is the connection to nature, often being built on islands and on lakes. The cold plunge into the water to counteract the heat is an important part of the sauna protocol.
“In my research I found there to be many examples of beachside saunas around the world and it was a no-brainer to do the same, making the most of our beautiful coastline, especially in the cooler months.”
After the sauna – or if you prefer fresh air – there are markets and pop-up bars and eateries to enjoy.
If you like shopping (and want to buy something unique for Christmas), wander the TJS Twilight Markets at Rotary Park in Christies Beach. Indulge in the food, music and entertainment while you’re there.
Or enjoy evening drinks and local food at the SandBAR on the Christies esplanade or at Mamma’s Beach Bar on the Port Noarlunga foreshore. Dance to the rhythm of the waves and live music while you eat and drink.
For a touch of Italy, head outdoors to Aldinga Beach where Pizzateca serves up gelati, pizza and a great drink selection.
Encore summer
The Salty Finn
1–24 November
Midday to 8pm, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays
The Esplanade, Christies Beach
Bookings
TJS Twilight Markets
8 November – 28 March
5pm to 9pm, fortnightly Fridays
Rotary Park, Christies Beach
The SandBAR
5 December – 28 February
From 3pm, Thursdays; from midday, Fridays to Sundays
Extended trading Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve
Cnr The Esplanade and Gulfview Road
(Keep posted for updates on the venue)
Mamma’s Beach Bar
18 December – 27 January
From 11.30am, Wednesdays to Sundays
Closed Christmas and New Year’s Days
The Promenade, Port Noarlunga
Pizzateca Beach
27 December – 27 January
From 4pm, Wednesdays to Sundays
Norman Road, Aldinga Beach