Goolwa is a fantastic spot for exploring by water and land alike. Its location at the mouth of the Murray River means many tours focus on waterways, wildlife, and indigenous culture. We particularly like the Murray Mouth Cruise for its scenic views and historical insights, and the Coorong Experience for its immersive blend of nature and culture. For adrenaline lovers, the Skydiving Adventure offers a once-in-a-lifetime view of the coast. Whether you’re after a relaxing cruise, a cultural deep dive, or an adrenaline rush, Goolwa’s tour options provide something for every type of traveler.
Below, we’ve put together our list of the three best tours in Goolwa, balancing cost, unique experiences, and reviews. Each offers a different way to experience this charming part of South Australia.
1. From Goolwa: Murray Mouth Cruise
This Murray Mouth Cruise is a favorite for its combination of scenery, history, and comfort. For around $40 per person, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours cruising from Goolwa through the Goolwa Barrage, the lock, and down to the mouth of Australia’s longest river. The tour takes you to the entrance of the Southern Ocean, offering a unique perspective on the Murray River’s connection to the sea.
What makes this cruise stand out is the quality of the guides, who are well-versed in the region’s natural beauty and history. The custom-made vessels are designed for comfort, with seating and an upper deck to get the best views. During the trip, you’ll learn about how the river and surrounding waterways shaped local communities and ecosystems. Recent reviews highlight the crew’s friendly professionalism and the “great narration” about the region’s history.
This tour is perfect for those wanting a short, informative experience that combines scenic views with stories that bring the area to life. It’s a good choice if you’re short on time but want a taste of the river’s significance.
Bottom Line: A well-rated, affordable cruise offering a scenic and educational river experience—ideal for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a relaxed introduction to Goolwa’s waterways.
2. From Goolwa: Full Day Coorong Experience
Our top pick for a comprehensive day trip is the Full-Day Coorong Experience, priced at $109 per person and lasting about 6 hours. This tour explores the final stretch of the Murray River, leading to the iconic Coorong, a protected area famous for its birdlife, sand dunes, and cultural sites.
What makes this tour stand out is the blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and Indigenous insights. You’ll visit locations from the film “Storm Boy,” providing a cinematic touch to your adventure. The guided walk and visits to Indigenous midden sites offer a chance to connect deeply with the land and its history. Participants also join a smoke ceremony, an authentic cultural experience led by Ngarrindjeri hosts, adding a meaningful layer to the journey.
Lunch is included, with scenic views of dunes and barrages, making this a well-rounded choice for nature lovers and those interested in Indigenous culture. The reviews are glowing, with a 4.9/5 rating from just seven reviews, praising the knowledgeable guides and the authentic cultural activities.
This tour is best for travelers wanting a full day of diverse experiences, combining sightseeing, wildlife, and culture in one trip. It’s especially suitable for those comfortable with a moderate physical activity during guided walks.
Bottom Line: An immersive, culturally rich tour that offers a deep dive into the Coorong’s landscapes and Ngarrindjeri traditions—worth every penny for curious travelers.
3. Adelaide: Tandem Skydiving Adventure over Goolwa
For thrill-seekers, the Tandem Skydiving Adventure over Goolwa promises an exhilarating experience. At $197 per person, the tour lasts between 2 and 3 hours, but the real highlight is the freefall at 220 kph with experienced instructors guiding you every step of the way.
This skydiving tour is unique thanks to the stunning views of the South Coast beaches you get from the air. After a safety briefing, you’ll ascend in a small aircraft, then jump for an adrenaline-pumping freefall, followed by a smooth parachute descent. One of the key features is the chance to take control of your own parachute, turning the experience into a moment of true flight.
Despite the limited number of reviews—three so far—the perfect 5/5 rating speaks to the quality and professionalism of the operation. Many previous jumpers describe it as “life-changing” and “absolutely worth the price.” This is best suited for those who crave adventure and don’t mind the cost, as well as those with a good level of fitness and no fear of heights.
The main consideration is the weather; clear skies are essential, and booking early in the day ensures the best chance for good conditions.
Bottom Line: A high-adrenaline, once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s perfect for adventure lovers, with stunning coastal views as your backdrop.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Goolwa
When selecting among these tours, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. The Murray Mouth Cruise offers an easy, scenic introduction suitable for most, while the Coorong Experience provides a deeper cultural and wildlife connection for those with more time. If you’re after adrenaline and a unique view, the Skydiving Adventure is hard to beat—but make sure you’re comfortable with heights and booking conditions.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like skydiving. Think about the season—summer offers warm weather for cruises and skydiving, but the water-related tours are active year-round, weather permitting.
Final Thoughts
Goolwa offers a diverse mix of tours that cater to different interests and activity levels. For a short, scenic overview, the Murray Mouth Cruise is affordable and informative. If you want a full-day adventure that combines nature and culture, the Full Day Coorong Experience is a standout. And for those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Skydiving Adventure promises a memory you’ll never forget.
Whatever your choice, booking early and considering your interests will ensure a memorable experience in this charming corner of South Australia.