Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the rugged beauty of South Australia with the Royston Head Hike, a 5km, grade 3 trail in Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park. This moderate, 2-hour return hike offers breathtaking panoramic views of Yorke Peninsula's coastline. Starting from the Royston Head Hike car park, which leads to Dolphin Beach, the trail extends to cliffside views at Royston Head. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and bushwalkers, this hike is a must-do for captivating coastal scenery.

Length:

5km

Duration:

2 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 53m

Min elevation: 12m

Total Ascent: 107m

Start: Royston Head Carpark

End: Royston Head Carpark

Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park

South Australia

Nearby town: Inneston

From state capital: 306km

Latitude: -35.19703192062933

Longitude: 136.86587066193792

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Hike overview

The Royston Head Hike in Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, South Australia, is a moderately challenging (grade 3) 5-kilometer out-and-back journey. Hikers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged Yorke Peninsula coastline from the lookout point perched atop the cliffs at Royston Head. The hike itself takes approximately 2 hours to complete.

The starting point is the Royston Head Hike carpark, which can be found along the road leading to Dolphin Beach. Be aware that the marked trail concludes as it reaches the coastal cliffs. However, you can continue adventuring along the cliffside towards Royston Head itself before retracing your steps and returning to the car park.

For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA

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Walk map and GPX file
Royston Head Walk (5km)

Total distance: 4869 m
Max elevation: 53 m
Min elevation: 12 m
Total climbing: 107 m
Total descent: -107 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park.

Accessing the Royston Head Hike car park requires navigating Innes National Park. Head towards the park entrance near Stenhouse Bay and follow park signage for Dolphin Beach. The route is suitable for most vehicles, though road conditions can vary. As you travel towards Dolphin Beach, be on the lookout for signs indicating the Royston Head Hike car park. Park entry fees apply, so be sure to check park regulations and obtain any necessary permits before heading out on your hike.

Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park is situated on the southwestern tip of Yorke Peninsula. For those traveling from Adelaide, the park can be reached by car via a roughly 300-kilometer journey. The route takes you through Port Wakefield, Ardrossan, Minlaton, and Warooka.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Corny Point, Innes National Park, Marion Bay, Point Giles, Point Morrison, Point Turton, Stenhouse Bay, Warooka, Yorke Peninsula, Yorketown

About the region

Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, formerly Innes National Park, caters to a variety of interests. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, adventure on hiking trails, or a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture, this park promises an unforgettable experience.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find their haven in Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park. Accessible campgrounds and pristine beaches make it perfect for camping, fishing, or surfing. Explore the park's diverse landscapes on trails ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes, all enriched by interpretive signs that reveal the local environment and indigenous history. Accessibility by 2WD vehicles makes the park convenient for day trips.

Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park boasts a rich history. Learn about South Australia's maritime past by visiting lighthouses and the shipwreck of the Ethel. Explore the abandoned township of Inneston, a window into the region's bygone era. The Narungga people have been the custodians of this land for millennia. Recognizing their deep connection, the park was co-managed with the Narungga traditional owners in 2020.

Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park offers a unique experience throughout the year. Summer's warm and dry weather is ideal for camping and enjoying the beaches. Autumn's cooler temperatures are perfect for exploring the park through hiking and sightseeing. Spring transforms the landscape into a vibrant display of wildflowers. Winter brings a lush green haven with dramatic seascapes and powerful waves.

The park is a haven for birdlife, including the threatened hooded plover and osprey. You might also be lucky enough to spot the reintroduced tammar wallaby, southern right whales (in winter), playful dolphins, and occasional seals or sea lions.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

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.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews
Royston Head Walk (5km)

5 Reviews on “Royston Head Walk (5km)”

Overall rating

Lisa Murphy

Such a great spot!

17/06/2024, 06:12

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Darren Edwards

A fun short walk out to stunning coastline. There’s a few enjoyable hikes around this area.

17/06/2024, 00:15

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Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.

Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Royston Head Walk (5km)

Royston Head Walk (5km)

Getting there

About the region

Similar walks nearby

Browns Beach to Gym Beach Hike (12km)

West Cape Headland Circuit Walk (1.2km)

Thomson-Pfitzner Plaster Trail Walk (9.7km)

Billy Goat Waterfall Walk (4.2km)

Track grade

Explore safe

Packing checklists

Let someone know

Reviews
Royston Head Walk (5km)