Yorke Peninsula

The peninsula’s bootlike shape juts out between Spencer Gulf and Gulf St Vincent and calm, shallow waters and sheltered coves make for carefree family beach holidays, especially the safe swimming to be had at charming Marion Bay.

Fish are attracted to the long coastline; King George whiting, snapper, garfish, and tommy ruffs are caught in meal size abundance. For blue crabs just grab your net and head for the jetty at Ardrossan.

With such diversity of fish species, the lively scene below the surface means first-class diving and snorkelling. Edithburgh has become a popular spot with underwater photographers. On the other side of the peninsula, divers can explore several shipwreck sites by following the Wardang Island Marine Heritage Trail. The Copper Coast towns Moonta, Wallaroo and Kadina, owe their distinct character to the Cornish "Cousin Jacks" who, in the 19th century came to work the mines.

At the foot of the peninsula - the toe literally - lies Innes National Park, with 9,100 rugged hectares of malice woodland coastal heath and stable dunes Troubridge Island Conservation Park, near Edithburgh, is renowned as a refuge for seafaring birds - fairy penguins, black faced shags and crested terns.