Published on 05 March 2022
Get your fun on Route 31
McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast is home to a new tourist drive showcasing 31 kilometres of idyllic coastline to the world.
Developed by the City of Onkaparinga, Route 31 Coastal Drive spans from O’Sullivan Beach to Sellicks Beach, is dotted with picturesque seaside villages to explore, and boasts some of South Australia’s best beaches.
City of Onkaparinga Acting Mayor Marion Themeliotis said the new tourist drive—officially launched yesterday by proud SA ambassador Andrew “Cosi” Costello—will help even more people discover what the amazing McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast region has to offer.
“This is the only place in Australia where pristine beaches and unique seaside villages are part of an internationally recognised wine and food region within 40 minutes of a capital city,” she said.
“Not only do we have South Australia’s most spectacular beaches, but the coast is brimming with things to see and do, including swimming, surfing, kayaking, paddle- boarding, fishing and diving.
“Route 31 Coastal Drive offers visitors the chance to stop and explore abundant seaside villages, which each offer an eclectic mix of wining and dining, shopping, arts, culture and history for people of all ages.
“It’s also the perfect destination for car club cruises and meets, with its million-dollar view and diverse range of businesses along the route making for perfect pitstops.
“Locals know how lucky we are to live and play here, but this new tourist drive is about sharing and showcasing these incredible coastal experiences with the world.”
Gateway and wayfinding signage has been erected along the length of the coastal drive, and a promotional map is now available online, at the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre, and from various retail outlets, cafes, tourist parks, restaurants, and tourism outlets along the route.
Head to the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast website for more information on the drive’s beaches, townships, experiences, accommodation and more, and use the hashtags #Route31 #valeandcoast and #coastaldrive when posting about your experiences along the drive.
The development of the Route 31 Coastal Drive is a key action of council’s endorsed Tourism Strategic Plan 2019-23, advocated by council’s Mid Coast and South Coast ward councillors, coastal business and tourism associations and local businesses.
Acting Mayor Themeliotis said an increase in visitors to the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast coastline would boost the region's unique local business community as it continues to emerge from the impacts of COVID-19.
We also want to encourage people to holiday in and explore their own backyards as we continue to emerge from the impacts of COVID-19.