A Photographic Guide to Rapid Bay (The Best Things to Do in Rapid Bay)

For photography Rapid Bay is one of the best places to visit in the Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia. There are so many different things to photograph in this rugged landscape – I was impressed with the variety of subject material. I think that Rapid Bay is an underrated destination, especially for photographers and anyone who enjoys a good adventure. I’m going to be introducing to you all the things you can see and experience in Rapid Bay. You can easily explore all of these places in an afternoon, or pick and choose what you like the look of from my photos.

Rapid Bay Jetty

Rapid Bay Jetty is famous for its diving and is known as one of the best spots in Australia. Apparently seadragons, blue ringed octopus and Giant Australian cuttlefish can be found in Rapid Bay.

Caves in Rapid Bay

Caves are always fun to explore and the series of caves along Rapid Bay are no exception. The first is a very large cave, easily accessible from the beach with plenty of photography opportunities inside and out. The photos below are all from this cave. Further along the headland to the north are some sea caves – however you’ll have to climb rocks or kayak to get there.

Limestone Quarry

There’s a huge limestone quarry at the southern end of the beach. Access inside is prohibited, but you can go along the gravel road and check it out from below.

Birding in Rapid Bay

Birders will be happy with the wildlife here. There’s a creek next to the beach filled with a variety of birds, especially at sunset like when we visited. I got some photos of Pacific Gulls, adults and juveniles. It’s a special type of seagull that you can’t find in Sydney.

Rapid Bay Beach

The actual beach has an interesting silver colour that gives photos a unique look. I saw many people kayaking, paddleboarding and boating in Rapid Bay.

Federation Cottage and Farmhouse

Rapid Bay was settled by Europeans in the mid 1800s. There are a few stone cottages still around in the hills. When you enter the town of Rapid Bay keep a lookout to the right to see the buildings. There’s space on the side of the road to pull over and take photos safely.

Norfolk Pine Trees

Just before entering the town is a delightful row of Norfolk Pines.

 Flying Your Drone in Rapid Bay

I took my DJI Mavic Pro Alpine for a flight here. Plenty of potential for drones here – just watch the wind! The region is known for strong gusts. The undulating hills and headlands are amazing!

Farm Animals

There are some beautiful farm animals to photograph along the way. Just make sure to park safely and not to enter the paddock.

Wildlife on the Road

As I was leaving the town I had to avoid a scaly creature sitting on the road. We quickly pulled over and went back to check – was it a snake or a lizard? Happily it was just a blue-tongued lizard, which we carried safely away from the road to the bushland. Keep a lookout for animals on the road in general – kangaroos, wallabies, lizards and even sheep can make an appearance when driving here.

Driving to Rapid Bay

The drive from the main road to the coast is a very scenic stretch, with some fun twists and bends along the way. Rapid Bay is about 1.5 hours drive from Adelaide, and close to Cape Jervis, Second Valley and other Fleurieu Peninsula locations. (If you’re insane like me, try driving 15 hours from Sydney).

To help plan your trip to Rapid Bay and South Australia, check out my blogpost about the 9 best photography spots in the Fleurieu Peninsula.