Discover the wonders of the Limestone Coast

Naracoorte Caves: a world heritage adventure

Naracoorte Caves is South Australia's only World Heritage site, recognised for its outstanding fossil deposits and the role it plays in ongoing scientific research. With a variety of above and below-ground experiences, there’s something for everyone at this incredible destination. Not sure which tour is best for you? Here’s a quick guide to help plan your visit:

If you have small children or limited time (or both!):

• Stick-Tomato Cave: This easy, self-guided walk starts with about 20 steps leading down into the cave. With two chambers to explore, the cave is well lit and suitable for all ages. Opening hours are 9.00am–5.00pm, and tickets can be combined with the Wonambi Fossil Centre.
• Wonambi Fossil Centre: Step back in time with exhibitions showcasing how the caves acted as pitfall traps, dens, and roosts for over 500,000 years. Learn about the megafauna that once roamed the landscape and the rich diversity of species found in the region.
• Alexandra Cave Tour: Ideal for families, this 30-minute guided tour introduces the geological processes that formed the caves. Tour times: 9:30am and 1:30pm.
• Don’t miss the award-winning Fossil Hunters Nature Playground!

If you’re fascinated by fossils:

• Victoria Fossil Cave: The highlight of Naracoorte Caves, this one-hour tour explores chambers filled with fossils of scientific significance. Learn about excavation techniques and current research while walking through magnificent speleothem formations. Suitable for all ages. Tour times: 10:15am and 2:15pm.

If caves make you nervous:

• Enjoy the Roof Top Loop Walk, an accessible trail with viewing platforms that provide glimpses into cave interiors and opportunities to watch bats entering or leaving their underground homes.

If you’re interested in meeting cave dwellers:

• Start at the Bat Observation Centre to learn about the critically endangered Southern Bent-wing Bats via infrared cameras. Follow this with a tour of Blanche Cave, rich in natural and European history. In summer, witness the bats’ evening flight from the Bat Cave. Tour times: 11:30am and 3:30pm.

If you have a whole day to explore:

• Everything! Plan your visit to include walking trails, the café, and multiple cave tours for a full experience of this World Heritage site.

Don’t forget to book online beforehand!

Tantanoola Caves: a hidden gem

Located about an hour’s drive from Naracoorte, Tantanoola Caves is one of the few wheelchair-accessible caves in Australia. Set into a cliff face, the caves tell the story of an ancient coastline. Known for its stunning pink and white limestone formations, this single-chamber cave is a must-see for visitors of all ages.

At the beginning of your visit, a guide shares insights into the cave’s history, geology, and the intricate formations that have developed over thousands of years. Afterwards, you’re free to explore the spacious cavern at your own pace and capture its beauty in photographs.

When you’re done underground, enjoy the picnic grounds or take a stroll along the clifftop walking trail for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside—a perfect way to round out your visit.

Entry to the cave is every half hour. Don't forget to book online before your visit.

More parks to explore while you're in the area

• Beachport Conservation Park: Discover rugged coastal scenery and walk the picturesque Woakwine Range.
• Bool Lagoon Game Reserve and Hacks Lagoon Conservation Park: A bird lover’s paradise, with wetlands teeming with waterfowl and other wildlife.
• Canunda National Park: Explore windswept cliffs, sand dunes, and stunning ocean views.
• Coorong National Park: Famous for its lagoon system and birdlife, the Coorong offers unique landscapes and cultural significance.
• Ewens Ponds Conservation Park: Experience crystal-clear water and underwater plant life in this snorkelling hotspot.
• Little Dip Conservation Park: Enjoy scenic walks and discover coastal flora and fauna.
• Telford Scrub Conservation Park: Wander through peaceful forest trails and spot native wildlife.

With so much to see and do, the Limestone Coast promises adventure and discovery at every turn. Plan your trip today and uncover the beauty of South Australia’s natural wonders!

Plan your journey

Before you go, take some time to learn how to visit well and safely. You’ll need to book at parks.sa.gov.au before you go for most tours, and the website also has information to inspire and inform your visit.

Don't forget to check the closures and alerts page for any planned closures.