Experienced hikers can tackle a challenging yet rewarding section of the Heysen Trail, the Waitpinga Cliffs to Kings Beach hike. This 11.5km, grade 3 trail traverses Newland Head Conservation Park in South Australia and is estimated to take approximately 5 hours to complete.
Beginning at Waitpinga Campground, the initial leg follows fire tracks as it climbs Ridgeway Hill. As the trail progresses, it departs from the fire tracks and leads walkers along a scenic coastal path through scrubland, offering breathtaking views of the Waitpinga Cliffs. Keep your eyes peeled for white-bellied sea-eagles, one of the few breeding pairs on the mainland that call these cliffs home.
It's important to note that although sometimes referred to as the Newland Head Nature Hike, there's no official signage using this name. Due to the one-way nature of the hike, unless you're willing to retrace your steps along the entire 11.5km route, arranging a car shuffle between the starting and ending points is recommended.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Total distance: 11601 m
Max elevation: 139 m
Min elevation: 3 m
Total climbing: 549 m
Total descent: -586 m
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Newland Head Conservation Park is conveniently located 91 kilometres south of Adelaide. Access is straightforward via Waitpinga Road, Victor Harbor. Waitpinga Campground, situated 91 kilometers south of Adelaide, is accessible by car. Head south on Victor Harbour Road from Adelaide, following signs towards Victor Harbor. Upon reaching Victor Harbor, turn onto Waitpinga Road. This road leads directly to the park entrance. From there, follow signs to Waitpinga Campground, your gateway to exploring Newland Head Conservation Park.
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Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
Newland Head Conservation Park, situated on the southern Fleurieu Peninsula, is a haven for nature lovers. The park's diverse landscape caters to a range of activities, including surfing and fishing on the long beaches of Waitpinga and Parsons.
These beaches are backed by scenic cliffs and rolling sand dunes, offering panoramic vistas across Waitpinga Creek, Encounter Marine Park, the Pages in Backstairs Passage, and even Kangaroo Island. Walking trails weave through the park, allowing visitors to explore the rugged coastline and its surrounds.
While swimming isn't recommended due to strong rips and hidden currents, camping is a fantastic option. Waitpinga Campground provides a place to rest and unwind after a day of exploration, lulled by the sound of waves lapping the shore.
Newland Head Conservation Park also boasts unique ecological significance. The mallee heath vegetation that dominates the park is not found elsewhere on the Fleurieu Peninsula. This habitat provides a sanctuary for over 500 native plant species, including endangered treasures like the Silver Daisy Bush, Butterfly Spyridium, and Osborn's Eyebright.
The park teems with wildlife as well. Look out for endangered mammals such as the Southern Brown Bandicoot and Western Pygmy Possum, alongside more common species like Western Grey Kangaroos and Short-beaked Echidnas. Over 100 bird species call the park home, including the majestic Wedge-tailed Eagle and the brightly coloured Beautiful Firetail. Keep an eye out for reptiles too, such as the Eastern Bearded Dragon and the Cunningham Skink.
Newland Head Conservation Park offers a true escape into a rich coastal environment. Whether you seek outdoor adventure or a chance to commune with nature, this park has something for everyone.
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Newland Head Conservation Park
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While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
