15 best things to do in Robe South Australia

Last updated: August 2026

There are so many things to do in Robe, South Australia. More than you would imagine. It’s one of those places that you might not have heard much about, but once you visit, you’ll wonder why it’s been kept quiet for so long. Nestled on South Australia’s stunning Limestone Coast, this charming town is filled with beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, seafood feasts and a rich local history. If you’re into 4WDing, surfing, are a real foodie, or you’re passing by while on a road trip, there are plenty of things to do in Robe to please everyone, and I guarantee you, you won’t be disappointed.

We recently road-tripped through this charming coastal town and discovered so many amazing things to do. From the iconic Long Beach, a challenging 4WD track through Little Dip Conservation Park, to a wood-fired brewery that’s the only one of its kind in Australia. A long weekend in Robe will leave you with nothing but unforgettable memories.

I’ve been back to Robe twice now, and what I love most is that the town gives you a bit of everything. You can spend the morning on the beach, head out in your 4WD for the afternoon, stop for fresh seafood and finish the day watching the sunset. Robe is a great destination for a weekend getaway or as part of a longer South Australian road trip. So if you’re planning a trip to Robe, or just looking for some inspiration, keep reading!

➤ If you’re looking for a broader overview of the town, including when to visit, where to stay, and how long to spend here, start with our complete Robe SA travel guide.

Here’s a list of the top 15 things you absolutely can’t miss in this hidden gem of South Australia.

Things to do in Robe at a glance

Things to do in Robe

1. Beach driving at long beach

If you’ve ever dreamed of driving along a beautiful wide stretch of pristine sand, Long Beach is the place to be. What makes this beach so unique is that it’s the only beach in Robe where you can drive directly onto the sand with both a 2WD and 4WD. This is a classic Robe experience, and it’s something you won’t find just anywhere else. By far the number one of things to do in Robe.

The beach itself is perfect to set up for an entire day. With gentle waves, it’s the ideal spot for swimming, kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding. A great spot to spend the day with friends, family or just the two of you. The further you drive up the beach (past the 3rd ramp), the surf gets a little rougher and bigger. I wouldn’t recommend driving all the way there with a 2WD, but a 4WD will do the job. The 3rd ramp is also perfect for surfing! So set up, bring a picnic or enjoy a BBQ while spending a day at the beach. 

If you’re planning to drive on Long Beach, check the conditions before you go and make sure you’re comfortable driving on sand. Tides and beach conditions can change, and getting bogged is always a possibility. The one thing I’d add: let your tyres down before you drive on, not after you’re stuck.

For us, beach driving is one of the things to do in Robe that really sets this town apart from a typical beach holiday. You can literally drive onto the sand, set up for the day and have the ocean right in front of you.

2. Stand up paddle boarding on Lake Battye

If you’re looking for a peaceful activity with beautiful views, try stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking at Lake Battye. This calm, freshwater lake offers glassy conditions, especially early in the morning or in the evening when the wind drops. The lake is surrounded by trees and wildlife, making it a serene escape from the town. If you’re new to SUP, don’t worry; the calm waters make it an ideal spot for beginners.

If you don’t have a SUP yourself, you can also book a guided inflatable kayak or SUP tour with the local business Inflatable Kayak Hire.

Tip: Join their sunrise adventure tour and watch the sun rise over Robe for an unforgettable experience.

This is one of the more relaxing things to do in Robe and a nice change of pace if you’ve already spent a lot of time on the coast.

3. Swim to the pontoon at Town Beach

Town Beach is another Robe gem and is a must-visit for anyone who’s looking for a fun, safe place to swim. One of the iconic things to do in Robe is swim out to the pontoon. It’s a little tradition for locals and visitors all year round, and a fun way to cool off in the refreshing water. The water is crystal clear, and the views of the town from the pontoon are unbeatable. Once you’re out there, take a moment to relax on the pontoon, take in the scenery, and catch your breath before swimming back to shore.

If you’re looking for easy things to do in Robe that don’t require any planning or equipment, this is one of my favourites. Grab your swimmers, walk down to Town Beach, swim to the pontoon, and have some fun.

Having lived in Queensland for 7 years, I’ll be honest. The water here is a lot cooler than I’m used to. Refreshing is the polite word for it. Locals swim out year-round, but outside summer, you might want a wetsuit top.

4. Mountain Biking at Beacon Hill

For those who love a good adrenaline rush, Beacon Hill has some epic mountain biking trails for both beginner and experienced riders. The Vine Trail and Wombat Trail are perfect for newbies (like myself). They have some narrow tracks, logs and small obstacles along the track that give you both excitement and challenge. We didn’t make our way all the way to the top of Beacon Hill, but we heard that the views from the top are also pretty incredible, and the tracks get more challenging. You can hire mountain bikes from Tracx in Robe and tailor your tour to your experience and ability.

Mountain biking is one of the things to do in Robe that you might not immediately think of when planning a coastal getaway. If you’re bringing your own bike, Beacon Hill is worth checking out, and if you’re new to the area, a guided tour can be a great way to discover the trails.

If riding isn’t your thing, you can also drive up to Beacon Hill Lookout TOwer instead and get the same view over Guichen Bay for no effort at all.

5. Fishing from the Robe Jetty

Unfortunately, due to heavy storms in June 2025, a part of the jetty has been destroyed and is currently shut down. Check the current status with the Robe Visitor Information Centre before you plan a fishing trip around it. Repair timelines do change.

But once it reopens, and if you enjoy fishing or just want to spend some quiet time by some of the most beautiful blue water, the Robe Jetty is a must-visit. Not only will you be surrounded by stunning waters, but it’s also a great spot to try your luck at fishing. There’s no fishing licence required here, making it an easy and accessible spot for everyone. Make sure you bring your camera, Robe Jetty is one of the best Instagram spots in the area.

Because access to the jetty can change following storm damage and repairs, check the current local information before making it part of your itinerary.

Fishing itself is still one of the classic things to do in Robe, with options from beaches, rocks, the marina and other accessible fishing spots around the coast. The breakwater at Lake Butler Marina is a good alternative while the jetty is closed, and beach fishing along Long Beach can be excellent around dawn and dusk.

6. Feasting on local crayfish

Robe is famous for its crayfish, and no trip here would be complete without indulging in this delicious local catch. One of our top recommendations is Sky Seafood, where you can get the freshest crayfish around. Be sure to go on their tour where you will see all their crayfish, some of them are even around 4kg! You can also pick your own from their selection and have them prepared for you on site or grab a steamed one to take with you. 

Trying local seafood is one of the easiest things to do in Robe, and if you’re a seafood lover, I’d definitely make room for crayfish while you’re here.

I also love that you can buy local seafood and take it back to your campsite. If you’re travelling with a camper or 4WD set up like us – and you’re not the best fisherman – picking up some fresh seafood and cooking it at camp is a pretty good way to finish a day in Robe.

➤ For the full rundown on where to eat in town, see our Robe SA travel guide.

7. 4WD adventure in Little Dip Conservation Park

For the 4WD enthusiast, Little Dip Conservation Park is an absolute must. This rugged, wild park is not for the faint of heart. Soft sand, dunes and rugged terrain make exploring this park a wild off-road adventure. Exploring Little Dip Conservation Park is a must-do experience. We would recommend reading our 4WD Guide before taking off on your adventure, or pop into the Robe Visitor Information Centre to get their 4WD Guide for $2. It’s a challenging track, but you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and epic camping spots.

This is one of the best things to do in Robe if you have a 4WD and want to get away from the main tourist spots. Little Dip Conservation Park is only a short drive from town, but once you’re out on the tracks, it feels much more remote.

Not every track in Little Dip is suitable for 2WD vehicles. Most of them are 4WD-only, and conditions can vary considerably depending on weather, sand and tides. Always check the current park information at the visitor centre and tide times before heading out. Carry proper recovery gear and if possible, don’t do it alone.

➤ If you’re planning to explore the park properly, don’t miss our Little Dip Conservation Park 4WD Guide, where we go into much more detail about the tracks, beaches, camping and what to expect.

➤ Planning to stay out there? Our guide to camping in Robe covers the campgrounds inside Little Dip and around town.

8. Go Surfing at one of Robe’s epic surf breaks

Surfing is one of the things to do in Robe that can easily turn into a full day at the beach. Robe has some epic surf breaks for you to try. Long Beach is a well-known spot, making it a favourite spot for surfers of all levels. For more experienced surfers, check out Stony Rise, a reef break that offers great conditions all year round. There are a few great surf spots around Robe; ask the locals where to go, and they’ll help you out. The biggest plus? The water here is often less crowded than other more popular surfing destinations; you might even have an empty lineup. 

9. Walk to the Cape Dombey Obelisk and watch the sunset

For a relaxed and mind-blowing experience, head to the Cape Dombey Obelisk for a scenic coastal walk. The Obelisk is one of Robe’s most famous landmarks, and the coastal track leading to the Obelisk is the perfect path for an evening stroll when the sky lights up. Watching the sunset over the water is a special experience, and it’s a peaceful way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. It’s one of the top things to do in Robe. And if you’re into photography, this is a must-visit spot. The sunset light makes it one of the most Instagram-worthy locations in Robe. 

The Cape Dombey Obelisk is also one of the easiest things to do in Robe if you’re not looking for an adventure-filled day. The walk, the coastal views and the story behind the landmark make it worthwhile even if you only have a short time in town.

Worth knowing before you go: the Obelisk was built in 1855 to guide ships safely into Guichen Bay, and it sits on a headland that’s actively eroding. The council has been openly discussing its long-term future for years. It’s still standing and free to walk to, but it’s not a landmark I’d put off until a future trip.

10. Visit Australia’s only wood-fired brewery

Robe is also home to something truly unique. Robe Town Brewery is Australia’s only wood-fired brewery, making it a pretty unusual stop on your Robe itinerary. Robe Town Brewery is the perfect place to relax with a cold beer after a day of adventuring. The brewery has a cosy vibe, with live music and regular events throughout the week. You can either sit inside or by a fire outside while sipping on locally brewed beers. It’s a fantastic way to wind down and experience a bit of Robe’s local culture.

If you’re wondering what to do in Robe after a day at the beach, I’d put the brewery high on the list. They also offer tasting flights and have other drinks available if beer isn’t your thing.

11. Explore Robe’s historic town centre

Robe isn’t only about beaches and 4WDing. The town has a fascinating history, and one of the more underrated things to do in Robe is simply taking some time to walk through the historic centre.

Robe was once an important port, and you can still see evidence of its past in the historic buildings around town. There are more than 70 heritage-listed buildings scattered through the town, including the Caledonian Inn, the Old Telegraph Station and the ruins of the Old Gaol out on the coast. A self-guided heritage walk is a great way to explore the old streets while learning more about Robe’s history. Pick up the walking trail map from the visitor centre and give it an hour.

This is a good option if the weather isn’t ideal for a full day outdoors.

12. Visit the Robe customs House and Maritime Museum

If you’re interested in history, add the Robe Customs House to your list of things to do in Robe. The historic limestone building dates back to 1863 and tells part of the story of Robe’s former role as a busy port. It’s been run as a museum by the National Trust since 1971, so opening hours are limited. Worth checking before you make the trip.

It’s also connected to the story of the thousands of Chinese immigrants who arrived at Robe during the Victorian gold rush before making the long journey overland to the goldfields. More than 16,000 of them landed at Guicen Bay between 1856 and 1858 and walked from here to the Victorian goldfields, which is a fair effort in anyone’s book. There’s a memorial in town that marks it.

I think this is particularly worth doing because it gives you a better understanding of the town you’re exploring rather than just seeing Robe as another pretty beach destination.

13. Take a walk along Robe’s coastline

If you want some of the best things to do in Robe without spending any money, go for a coastal walk. The coastline around Robe is incredibly varied, from sandy beaches and sheltered bays to dunes, cliffs and rocky sections.

You can combine a coastal walk with several other Robe attractions, such as Town Beach, the marina and the Cape Dombey Obelisk. Doorway Rock is another good one to work into a coastal walk. It’s a natural rock archway just south of town, and it’s best on a low tide.

Sunset is my favourite time for a walk because the light along the coast can be beautiful. Just bring a jacket; the coastal wind can be surprisingly cold even when the day itself has been warm.

14. Visit Robe’s local shops and galleries

Robe has a lovely collection of small independent shops, galleries and local businesses, so make sure you leave some time to wander through the town rather than spending your entire visit outdoors.

This is one of the things to do in Robe that works well on a slower morning. Grab a coffee, browse the shops and pick up something local to take home.

If you’re travelling with someone who isn’t as excited about 4WD tracks and beach driving as you are, this is also an easy way to spend a couple of hours together.

15. Visit Humpalicious Camel Farm

For something completely different, head to Humpalicious Camel Farm. It’s one of the more unexpected things to do in Robe and a fun option if you’re travelling with kids or simply want something other than another beach activity.

The farm is at Mount Benson, a short drive north of Robe rather than in the town itself. So calculate the drive in. The farm offers camel experiences and tours, making it a quirky addition to a Robe itinerary. Check the current tour availability and booking requirements before you visit.

Things to do in Robe when the weather isn’t great

Robe is very much an outdoor destination, but don’t let a windy or rainy day ruin your trip. There’s still plenty to do in Robe when it rains, and here’s what to do in Robe when the weather turns:

• Spend some time exploring the historic centre and Customs House
• Browse the local shops
• Settle in for a long breakfast or coffee
• Head to Robe Town Brewery
• Take the crayfish tour at Sky Seafood, which is undercover
• Drive out to the Obelisk and Doorway Rock: a wild day actually makes this coastline more dramatic

Free things to do in Robe

If you’re travelling on a budget, there are plenty of free things to do in Robe. Some of my favourites are:

Some activities, such as 4WDing, bike hire, tours, and food experiences, will cost extra, but you can easily fill a few days in Robe without spending much at all.

My Top 15 Things to do in Robe

These are my 15 best things to do in Robe. This tiny town has so much on offer and has really taken us by surprise. From beach driving and surfing to the tastiest seafood. Robe is the perfect place for an adventurous getaway. After visiting this South Australian gem twice, I think Robe has the perfect blend of adventure, outdoor fun, and delicious food & drinks.

If I had to narrow all of these things to do in Robe down to my absolute favourites, I’d choose:

• Long Beach
• Little Dip Conservation Park
• Cape Dombey Obelisk at sunset
• Eating local seafood
• Swimming to the pontoon at Town Beach

Those five give you a pretty good taste of what makes Robe so special. Do those in a weekend an you’ll leave understanding why we came back a second time.

plan your trip to Robe

If you’re planning a trip to Robe, start with our complete Robe SA Travel Guide covering everything from when to visit, to the best beaches, food, camping and where to stay. For more detailed guides, check out our:

Things to do in Robe FAQs

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