Whether you’re road tripping across the Eyre Peninsula or sipping your way through the Adelaide Hills, we’ve got you covered with luxurious beach houses, boutique cottages and heritage-listed estates that can accommodate a crowd. Ready to book? Read on to discover our top group accommodation picks in South Australia.
1. Hamilton and Dune, Kangaroo Island
There’s no better way to explore Kangaroo Island than with a car-full of mates, and when it comes to spending the night, there’s plenty of spacious options on the island. Our pick is Hamilton and Dune – two quintessential holiday homes in Emu Bay, furnished with just a touch of 1970’s disco. Boasting feel-good furnishings, large entertaining areas – including a sunken lounge at Dune house – and the smell of salt and surf in the air, grab your friends and family and head to this offshore oasis. Together, Hamilton and Dune can accommodate up to 12 guests.
2. Pago, Fleurieu Peninsula
Located in the heart of Middleton on the Fleurieu Peninsula, this secluded retreat is the ideal destination for those in need of a little R&R. Pago is the lovechild of local winemaker Rose Kentish and husband Sam Harrison, who converted the 19th-century stables into a picture-perfect haven, with four king-size bedrooms wrapping around a magnesium pool. The couple’s artistic touches are obvious throughout the property – from Jam Factory ceramics to handmade Moroccan shower tiles and an array of artwork decorating the walls, Pago is a sanctuary dedicated to quiet pleasure. Accommodating up to eight guests, this hidden gem awaits your arrival.
3. Drift Houseboat, Riverland
Rally your friends and family for a cruising holiday you won’t forget. Hop aboard Drift by Riverfun Houseboats and discover a different way of holidaying, where the scenery changes from day to day and nights are spent moored on the Murray River’s edge. Spacious enough for multiple families, kids will have the adventure of a lifetime as they canoe and swim the days away, and parents will love the heated spa and spacious deck, where they can catch up over coffee or finally get around to finishing that bestseller. Make memories with your loved ones while taking in the magnificent sights of the river and surrounding bushland on this lavish houseboat. With 12 bedrooms and three bathrooms, Drift can accommodate up to 12 people.
4. Pelican Shed, Limestone Coast
Robe on the Limestone Coast is a popular holiday spot for good reason. With stunning beaches and laid-back hospitality, this beach town draws visitors from near and far, year after year. The best way to experience the serenity of this coastal oasis is by booking a stay at the Pelican Shed – one of Robe’s best getaways for groups looking to spend their days on the sand and nights swapping stories around the dinner table. With four bedrooms, two bathrooms and open-plan kitchen and dining room, there’s plenty of room for everyone. The Pelican Shed can sleep up to 8 people. Writer’s tip: the spacious outdoor veranda is enveloped by a ring of native trees, making this cosy home feel like a tranquil treehouse. Brew a morning cuppa and bask in the morning sun while listening to the birds chirp from the branches overhead.
5. Pavilions at Lenswood, Adelaide Hills
Want to stay at a Japanese onsen-inspired cabin? How about an art deco apartment? Pavilions at Lenswood offer both accommodation options and more, with six self-contained suits nestled in the heart of the Adelaide Hills. This adults-only property offers all the privacy of a couple’s retreat, but with pavilions conveniently located within walking distance of one another, Pavilions at Lenswood is also perfect for multiple couples on a group getaway. Pick you abode and soak up views over the rolling valleys below, while enjoying the company of friendly alpacas and highland cows next-door. The entire property can accommodate 12 people.
6. Yondah Beach House, Yorke Peninsula
With access to your very own private beach, this oceanfront villa is a must-book for your next girl’s trip. Only three hours from Adelaide but a world away from city living, Yondah is a deluxe coastal property located on 300 acres of secluded Yorke Peninsula coastline. You’ll have plenty of space to while away the hours swimming, soaking up the sun and spotting whales and seals playing in the water – plus with three bathrooms and three ensuites, there’s no need for crowding. Yondah can sleep up to eight guests. Writer’s tip: this coastal oasis welcomes furry friends, so you can bring your pet for a stay too!
7. Vale 194, Fleurieu Peninsula
Nestled behind the main street of McLaren Vale, you’ll find the ultimate homebase for your next group wine tour. Vale 194 is the newest addition to the township of McLaren Vale, boasting five bluestone holiday homes in their very own neighbourhood. Under each roof you’ll find three bedrooms and two bathrooms, plus all of the creature comforts necessary for a stay in wine country. After a day spent sipping on McLaren Vale’s very best drops, return to Vale 194 and soak up the serenity of this home away from home. Each cottage can accommodate six people, and the entire Vale 194 property can sleep 30.
8. Simon Tolley Lodge, Adelaide Hills
This luxurious, five-bedroom lodge is the perfect destination for your next Adelaide Hills getaway. Located less than an hour’s drive from Adelaide, Simon Tolley Lodge sits prettily amongst the vineyards of the renowned Simon Tolley Wines. Stay on this working wine property and admire spectacular views of the vines and valley in the distance, while exploring local cellar doors and restaurants just moments from your doorstep. With spacious living areas, an outdoor entertaining space and full gourmet kitchen, rally your wine-loving friends for a weekend spent amongst the vines. Simon Tolley Lodge can accommodate up to 10 guests.
9. Bungaree Station, Clare Valley
Step back in time and experience bush life as it was almost 200 years ago at this heritage-listed estate. Nestled in the heart of Clare Valley, Bungaree Station is a working farm turned boutique accommodation. The Men’s Kitchen – which once housed the station’s bachelors – boasts four bedrooms, large kitchen and lush lawns, making it the perfect destination for large groups or families. Take a tour of this historic estate, then rally the group for an afternoon barbecue on the grass. The Men’s Kitchen can accommodate up to ten people.
10. Brockenchack B&B, Barossa Valley
Tucked away in the Barossa Valley countryside, Brockenchack Wines has more to offer than just cellar door tastings. Take your pick from the Retreat, Vineyard or Studio B&B and experience the very best of country ambience, complete with panoramic views of the Eden Valley ranges. The three cottages can accommodate up to 12 people across six bedrooms. Writer’s tip: Looking for a truly luxe escape? Retreat B&B boasts two outdoor bathtubs, so you can soak away your worries while sipping on a glass of Brockenchack rosé.
11. Sage at Streaky Bay, Eyre Peninsula
Located on South Australia’s rugged west coast, Sage at Streaky Bay is a remote oasis worth travelling for. Pull into the driveway and feel the serenity of this beach property wash over you, promising nothing but the most relaxed coastal escape for you and seven of your mates. Connect with old friends and make new ones over your morning coffee, before heading out to spend the day exploring the Eyre Peninsula’s famous coastline. As the sun dips below the horizon, take a seat around the firepit and spend the evening catching up on old times with your nearest and dearest. Sage at Streaky Bay can sleep eight people.
12. Willow Springs Station Homestead, Flinders Ranges and Outback
Planning a convoy into the Flinders Ranges and Outback? Add Willow Springs Station to the itinerary and lay your head to rest in a place that feels like a home, not a house. After a day on the road, pull into the old-school homestead and discover a little slice of outback history. Built in the 1950s, the homestead once slept a family of 10 under its roof and is now the perfect overnighter for those traversing the red dirt roads of the Flinders Ranges. The homestead has two bathrooms – one outside and one inside – as well as a large kitchen table, perfect for card games and telling tales over dinner. The Willow Springs Station Homestead can sleep up to 11 people.
Linger longer in South Australia
Already planning your next South Australian escape? Check out our guide to the 10 best glamping experiences in South Australia or recharge your soul with our Top 8 Nature Stays.
