Port Elliot 

Set on picturesque Horseshoe Bay, Port Elliot was selected by Governor Sir Henry Edward Fox Young in 1850 as the site for the ocean port of the Murray River trade. He named the place after his friend, Sir Charles Elliot. The township was proclaimed in 1854, the same year in which the first railway line in South Australia was opened between Goolwa and Port Elliot, this being constructed to convey the produce to the overseas port.

However, the Governor's choice was unfortunate as the bay was not well enough protected, and following several shipwrecks, the anchorage was transferred to the lee of Granite Island at Victor Harbor in 1864. With the port abandoned, the town has since developed into a very popular tourist resort.

The town is one of mixed architecture, with many historic buildings interspersed amongst the new holiday homes and units built in recent years to accommodate the thriving tourist trade. This is a model seaside village, with cafes, antique and gift shops along The Strand. The most popular area of the town is obviously the attractive Horseshoe Bay, with its large sandy beach and safe swimming conditions and is a popular venue for families. The surfing fraternity is well accommodated at Boomer Beach, which lies on the western edge of the town.

• Jump aboard the Cockle Train to nearby Goolwa or Victor Harbor - other popular seaside destinations - or try the cliff-top walking path for stunning views of the coast. The Encounter Bikeway weaves its way through Port Elliot's streets.

Features

• Swim in the bay
• Go boating and fishing
• See the old railway line
• See the historic buildings
• Go shopping
• Dine in the various cafes, restaurants and eateries
• Go surfing
• Take the Cockle Train to Goolwa
• See the cliff top walkways