South Australia's Best Bodyboarding Spots: Where to Chase the Perfect Shore Break

South Australia might be known for its rugged coastlines and surf culture, but for bodyboarders in the know, it’s a playground of hollow shore breaks, wedgy peaks, and clean barrels. SA offers various bodyboarding-friendly spots, whether you're just starting or chasing heavy slabs. Here are some of the best places to drop in.

🌀 Knights Beach, Port Elliot – Fleurieu Peninsula

Arguably the most famous bodyboarding spot in the state, Knights Beach is home to a heavy, dumping shore break that’s perfect for adrenaline-seeking boogers. This wave breaks fast and hard, offering steep take-offs and seriously punchy barrels, not for the faint-hearted, but an absolute rite of passage for local riders.

🌊 Waitpinga Beach – Fleurieu Peninsula

Just down the road from Knights, Waitpinga is a more open beach break that offers a mix of peaks depending on the swell direction. It’s powerful, raw, and more consistent than many other breaks in the region. The rips can be intense, so it's best suited for experienced riders who know how to handle themselves in tough conditions.

🏄♂️ Moana Beach – Mid Coast

Moana is a go-to for those learning the ropes or after something a bit more mellow. It’s one of the Mid Coast’s most accessible beaches and often dishes up fun little peaks perfect for beginner to intermediate bodyboarders. Plus, there’s plenty of room to spread out and practice without too much pressure.

📍 Goolwa Beach – Fleurieu Peninsula

Long, open and often overlooked, Goolwa can deliver fun banks when the sand and swell line up. It’s great for all levels, with heaps of space and an easy vibe. You might not score barrels daily, but you’ll get playful rides and plenty of practice.

🪨 Chiton Rocks – Victor Harbor

Tucked between Port Elliot and Victor Harbor, Chiton Rocks can produce short, punchy waves that break close to shore — ideal for bodyboarding. It’s a local favourite when conditions are right, and although it can be inconsistent, it’s worth checking when you’re in the area.

🌬️ Browns Beach – Yorke Peninsula

Remote and raw, Browns Beach is tucked into Innes National Park and is well worth the drive. It can serve up crisp, wedgy peaks over sand that holds up well in small to moderate swell. The water is crystal clear, and the scenery is unreal—this is bodyboarding with a side of wilderness.

🌊 Berry Bay – Yorke Peninsula

Berry Bay North is ideal for bodyboarding when the conditions are small to mid-range. With nice banks and fun little wedges, it’s a favourite with locals. Berry Bay South can also work, but keep an eye on rips and local conditions — both breaks can pack more punch than they look from the car park.

Final Drop-In

From the Mid Coast to the Yorke Peninsula, South Australia’s coastline has plenty to offer bodyboarders of all skill levels. Whether you're chasing clean little peaks or full-on dumpers, there’s always a stretch of beach waiting to be explored. Check the surf reports, watch for rips, and ride within your limits.

What you need to hit the beach for your bodyboard sesh:
- Bodyboard (obviously!)
As a general rule of thumb, stand the bodyboard on the ground, and the top of the board should be around your belly button.
- Bodyboard Leash 
Now that you have the board you love, don't lose it with a wrist or bicep leash.
- Fins 
Shorter and angled, unlike swimming fins.
- Fin Savers and Surf Socks
Fin savers hook onto your fins so you don't lose them, and surf socks stop your fins rubbing.
- Bodyboard Bag
Protect your prized possession! 
If you need more information or are unsure of what you need, please contact the Rapid team, and we can get you kitted out to hit the breaks.

Wax the lid, strap on the fins, and get ready to hit some of SA’s best bodyboarding spots.
Happy Bodyboarding from the team at Rapid Surf & Ski 🤙