Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week-long holiday, South Australia is home to an expansive selection of unique places to stay that are perfect for every type of style and taste. So, whether you’re wanting waterfront views, quirky accommodation, an off-grid getaway or something truly unusual, we’re sure you’ll fall in love with our top accommodation picks!
Here you’ll find a list of the most unique places to stay in South Australia will provide you with the ultimate cure for your next getaway. Paired with some of Australia’s best wineries, world-class food, idyllic scenery – you can’t really go amiss with any of these unique stays in this beautiful state!
So pack your bags as we head off on an adventure through the best and most unique boutique hotels in South Australia of 2023:
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CABN
Wanting a getaway in the Barossa Valley? How about Clare Valley, Kangaroo Island, Kuitpo Forest, McLaren Vale or the Fleurieu Peninsula? With CABN, the choice is ultimately yours. If you’re looking for the most unusual and unique accomodation options in South Australia, then CABN is for you. Situated in a handful of secluded locations across the state, here guests will be surrounded by walking trails, wineries or even white sanded beaches. Each uniquely designed and promising to offer something new every stay, these off-the-grid secluded options allow you to sit back and truly immerse yourself in nature. If you’re wanting to take in the serenity on a true hidden experience, CABN is for you.
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Camel Beach House
Camel Beach House is the definition of luxury accommodation in South Australia. Renowned for its secluded privacy, here you’ll be surrounded by bewitching wilderness and expansive views of Mount Camel Beach. With two queen beds, a modern kitchen and an incredible outdoor area, Camel Beach House has it all. Plus, this unique stay in South Australia also utilises the benefits of pure rainwater and solar panels. Available from September to April.
Photographed by Jessica Seghatti. Image via Shutterstock.
Hillocks Ocean Pod
Situated in coastal bushland in the renowned Marion Bay area, Hillocks Ocean Pod provides the perfect isolated getaway experience in a luxurious camping setting. The Pod provides the ideal base camp to get out and explore the coastal and marine life in the York Peninsula region. In winter, you can enjoy the comfort of a campfire under the stars with the sound of waves crashing into nearby coastline. Capable of sleeping up to four people with a double bed and two singles, this getaway is the perfect couples’ retreat or fit for a small family. Importantly, the Pod itself is designed to leave a low environmental footprint which provides a guilt-free yet glamourised camping experience.
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Kings Beach Retreats
Kings Beach Retreats provide the perfect escapism from the world in secluded luxury with endless views of the ocean on South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula. Take your pick from three private wilderness retreats: the Sea Retreat for couples, the Sand Retreat for small families which sleeps four or, for large groups, the Headland House which sleeps 10. Regardless, each of the unique stays available at Kings Beach Retreats offer their own all-weather conservatory and are individually the perfect spot to take in the breathtaking setting.
Photographed by Adam Bruzzone.
Image via South Australian Tourism Commission.
Mount Lofty House MGallery
If you’re looking for a luxury escape in the Adelaide Hills region, Mount Lofty House MGallery is the destination for you. One of the most unique stays in South Australia, Mount Lofty House promises polished rooms, valley views and quality amenities all housed within a stone mansion that dates back to 1852. With an onsite pool and tennis court, you’ll also be treated to pampering facilities for your stay. Found just a 10-minute walk from Cleland Conservation Park, Mount Lofty House MGallery is the romantic getaway you never knew you needed.
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Oceanview Eco Villas
This is one of the most secluded, off-the-grid accommodation options in South Australia. Offering a remarkable experience, Oceanview Eco Villas is perched atop Kangaroo Island’s coastline. Providing a luxury escape, guests can unwind and enjoy all the pleasures that this unique stay has to offer. With two bedrooms and a generous living space, Oceanview Eco Villas also pride themselves on their sustainability measures to ensure that your stay is as eco-friendly as possible.
Photographed by Jonathan Kissock Photography. Image supplied.
Pike River Luxury Villas
Situated on the river in the beautiful Riverland region, Pike River Luxury Villas offers irresistible views in a relaxed and secluded setting. Your own self contained villa provides the perfect opportunity to get away and escape from the stresses of life while exploring one of South Australia’s most underrated regions. Apart from being one of the coolest and most unique hotels in South Australia, Pike River also prides themselves on their sustainability measures. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway that is luxurious and eco-friendly, this is it!
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Rogasch Cottage
Perfectly located within the famous wine country in the Barossa Valley, Rogasch Cottage promises to be one of the quirkiest and most unique getaways in South Australia. The two-bedroom cottage is tucked within nine acres of vineyards and within just a short walking distance of Tanunda’s sought-after coffee shops and restaurants. The greatest draw of this unique accommodation is the heated plunge pool that overlooks the vineyards. For the wine enthusiasts, the cottage also comes with access to your own private cellar. After a day out exploring the wineries and restaurants of the Barossa Valley, come back, relax and crack open a bottle or two. Life does not get much better than this!
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The Vineyard McLaren Vale
Nestled amongst the vineyards, The Vineyard McLaren Vale offers an exclusive experience like no other. Located in the heart of the McLaren Vale wine region – just 40-minutes south of Adelaide’s CBD – you are within minutes of some of the world’s leading wineries. Guests have the choice of six self-contained guest houses, each with its own private deck offering spectacular views of neighbouring vineyards and valleys. Each guesthouse is home to a king bed, smart TV and a fireplace, while all guests have access to the property’s jacuzzi which presents the perfect spot to sit back, relax and enjoy one of the region’s wines as you watch the breathtaking sunset.
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Wandering Souls Australia
If you’re looking for the best glamping experiences in South Australia, Wandering Souls Australia provides a unique and luxury experience thanks to their pop-up escapes across Kangaroo Island. With five distinctively styled tents to choose from, guests will be treated to some of the most beautiful coastal destinations including Stokes Bay, Bay of Shoals Winery and more. With Wandering Souls Australia all you need to do is pack your bag and the team will pitch your tent of choice in your desired location and then pack it down at the end of your trip. It’s that easy! Please note: Wandering Souls Australia is currently temporarily closed.
Looking for some more unique destinations in South Australia? Check out our guide to the Top 10 Things To Do in German-inspired town, Hahndorf. Or, discover these 10 Unique Getaway Gems around South Australia.
We acknowledge the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.
From the quirkiest getaways to luxury accommodation, cool boutique hotels and some even off the grid, South Australia is home to some of the most unique stays for you to enjoy!