YHA Port Elliot
Welcome to Port Elliot! Staying at YHA Port Elliot Beach House puts you right across the road from the beautiful coastline, with sandy beaches, coastal walks and plenty of local experiences on your doorstep. Spend your days swimming, surfing, kayaking or exploring the charming towns of Port Elliot and Victor Harbor.
Keep an eye out for whales along the coast during the winter months, explore the Encounter Coast by bike, or take a day trip to the world-renowned wine region, McLaren Vale. You can also visit Granite Island, ride the historic Cockle Train or venture further afield to Kangaroo Island, just an hour’s drive from the ferry.
For YHA activities and deals, download the YHA Explorer App and check out the YHA Port Elliot page.
Tip: Ask our team about free boogie boards, bikes, local markets and the best spots to explore around the Fleurieu Peninsula.
Best free spots for views & local experiences
Start your day with a walk along the Harbourmaster’s walking trail, which begins right across from the hostel. The trail takes in sweeping Southern Ocean views, secluded swimming bays and dramatic cliff-lined beaches, making it especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset. You can also follow the Port Elliot to Horseshoe Bay track for more coastal views and swimming spots.
For a classic Port Elliot experience, head to Horseshoe Bay or Knights Beach for a swim or grab one of the hostel’s free boogie boards and hit the waves. Keep an eye out for whales along the coastline in winter, or borrow a bike from reception and explore the Encounter Bikeway, which follows the coast through Port Elliot, Middleton, Victor Harbor and Goolwa.
Back in town, browse the Port Elliot Markets on the first and third Saturday of each month, or wander down to Hotel Elliot to catch a local band. And don’t forget to make the most of YHA Port Elliot itself, the front balcony is a great spot for sunrise, sunset and, on a clear night, some seriously impressive stargazing.
FREE - Eat from veggie patch
Our legendary Veggie Patch is full of goodies for you to include in your breakfast, lunch or dinner - for FREE!
Free boogie boards
Splash around in the gentle waves of Horseshoe Bay or make like a pro at Knights Beach - either way, our boogie boards are free and loads of fun!
$10 - Ride the coastal trails
Right at our doorstep, we have the awesome Encounter Bikeway that hugs the coast for nearly 30kms with beautiful cliffs, white sandy beaches, a bit of surf spotting and the odd whale (in season). We have bikes for hire from $10 for half a day. Get on it! Surfboards are also available to hire - just ask us.
Ride The Cockle Train
Take a ride on Australia’s oldest steel railway, dating back to 1887. Historic Port Elliot Railway Station is just a short walk from our front door. Ask Reception for latest prices and timetable.
Granite Island
Located off the shore of Victor Harbor (a short bike ride or drive from Port Elliot) this beautiful island is attached to the mainland by a wooden causeway. Walk across to the island or catch a horse-drawn tram where there's plenty of scenic walks and lookouts to explore. Also, don't miss the chance to spot local wildlife including a small colony of Little Penguins!
Local Markets
We’re surrounded by local markets offering an amazing range of local produce from organic fruit and veg to handcrafted items along with second-hand books, vinyl, and other goods recycled and upcycled (even the odd bicycle or two). Port Elliot Markets run on the first and third Saturday of every month but there are heaps of other markets in the neighbouring towns to explore.