Goolwa is a fantastic spot for exploring South Australia’s natural beauty and maritime history. Its location at the mouth of the Murray River means you can enjoy water-based adventures like cruises that reveal the region’s unique ecology and Indigenous culture. We’re particularly fond of the Murray Mouth Cruise because it combines scenic views with insightful commentary, making it a great choice for travelers who want to learn while enjoying the water. For those seeking a full-day immersion, the Coorong Experience offers a deeper connection with nature and local culture, which is hard to beat. If you’re after an adrenaline rush, the Tandem Skydiving Adventure over Goolwa delivers spectacular aerial views and a thrill you won’t forget. Each of these experiences highlights different aspects of Goolwa, ensuring there’s something for all.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a range of tours and experiences in Goolwa: a scenic Murray Mouth cruise, a comprehensive Coorong exploration, and an exhilarating skydiving adventure. All three are highly rated, offering unique ways to see and appreciate this part of South Australia. Whether you prefer a relaxing boat ride, a cultural journey, or a daredevil skydiving jump, these options give a taste of what makes Goolwa special. Click on the links to learn more about each experience here, here, and here.
1. From Goolwa: Murray Mouth Cruise
At number 1, the From Goolwa: Murray Mouth Cruise takes you on a 1.5-hour journey through some of the most iconic waterways of South Australia. Starting at Goolwa, the tour heads toward the Goolwa Barrage, passes through the lock, and reaches the mouth of the Murray River. From here, you can see where the Murray meets the Southern Ocean — a sight that’s at once grand and tranquil. This cruise is popular because it offers fascinating insights into the region’s natural environment and how the river has shaped local life.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of comfort and expert commentary. The vessels are custom-made, with cozy seating and an upper deck for panoramic views. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories about the area’s wildlife, river ecology, and indigenous history. Several reviews highlight how both the scenery and storytelling make this cruise a memorable highlight of any Goolwa visit. For travelers who want an easy, scenic introduction to the Murray River, this cruise hits the mark.
Bottom line: A relaxing way to learn about South Australia’s river systems with excellent views and engaging guides. Perfect for those short on time but eager for a memorable experience.
2. From Goolwa: Full Day Coorong Experience
Ranking second, the Full Day Coorong Experience offers a longer, more immersive adventure into the unique landscape of the Coorong. Over six hours, you’ll explore the final stretch of the Murray River and its estuary before it opens into the Southern Ocean. This tour stands out for its diverse activities — including visits to famous film locations from “Storm Boy,” guided walks, Indigenous cultural sites, and even a smoke ceremony led by local Ngarrindjeri hosts.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is the blend of natural beauty with cultural storytelling. You’ll cruise past scenic sand dunes and barrages, enjoy a delicious included lunch, and participate in meaningful cultural activities. The Indigenous-led insights into Ngarrindjeri traditions enrich the experience, providing depth that many travelers seek. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable local guides and the “authentic connection to the land and culture,” making it a top choice for those interested in both wildlife and Indigenous history.
Bottom line: If you want a full day of nature, culture, and scenic cruising, this tour offers exceptional value, especially for travelers eager to understand the region’s story beyond just its scenery.
3. Adelaide: Tandem Skydiving Adventure over Goolwa
Number 3, the Adelaide Tandem Skydiving Adventure, is for thrill-seekers ready to experience the ultimate adrenaline rush. This skydiving tour offers a 2-3 hour window for participants to leap from a plane at 220 kph, soaring over Goolwa and the South Australian coast. It’s the only tour on our list that provides an aerial freefall, giving you a chance to take control of the parachute if you’re feeling brave.
What makes this experience stand out is the professional crew and the breathtaking views of beaches, dunes, and the coastline. Reviewers mention the safety standards and the guides’ ability to ease first-timers into the experience, making it accessible even if you’ve never skydived before. The tour is best suited for those who crave high-energy adventures and stunning, unobstructed vistas from above.
While it’s a more costly and time-consuming option than the cruises, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime perspective on Goolwa’s landscape. If your idea of travel is pushing boundaries and seeking memorable stories, this skydiving adventure hits the target.
Bottom line: Perfect for adrenaline junkies and adventure lovers, this skydiving experience provides unparalleled views and a story to tell for years.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking between these options depends on your interests, time, and budget. If you prefer a gentle, scenic introduction to Goolwa’s river systems, the Murray Mouth Cruise offers a relaxed yet informative outing. For a full-day culture, the Coorong Experience blends nature, Indigenous culture, and storytelling. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, the tandem skydiving tour will give you a perspective few experiences can match.
Think about what kind of experience excites you most. For example, if you’re a nature lover eager to see wildlife and learn about local traditions, the full-day Coorong trip may be your best fit. If you’re traveling with a group or family that loves adventure, skydiving could be a highlight. For those on a tight schedule, the Murray Mouth cruise provides a quick but satisfying taste of the region’s beauty.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like skydiving and full-day excursions, to ensure availability during peak seasons. Consider the best time to visit — spring and autumn often have the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
Goolwa offers a range of memorable ways to experience its waterways, wildlife, and culture. Whether you opt for a peaceful cruise, an in-depth cultural tour, or a skydiving thrill, you’ll find something that makes your visit special. For a balanced trip, choose one relaxing activity and one adventure — and don’t forget to book early to secure your spot in these popular experiences.