Harbourmasters Walking Trail
An easy coastal loop past every Port Elliot bay
A 1.9-kilometre sealed loop trail along the granite cliffs of Port Elliot, linking Horseshoe Bay, Freeman Lookout, Green Bay and Knights Beach with sweeping Encounter Bay views.
A greatest-hits coastal stroll
The Harbourmasters Walking Trail is the easiest way to see every Port Elliot bay in a single outing. Starting at a small car park off The Strand, the path hugs the cliff line past the remains of the original 1852 harbourmaster's cottage, loops around Freeman's Nob, and delivers non-stop views of Horseshoe Bay, Lady Bay, Rocky Bay, Green Bay, Knights Beach, Boomer Beach and Pullen Island.
What visitors do
Families push prams along the paved sections while fitter walkers take the optional stair descents for a closer look at each beach. Interpretive signs explain the whaling, shipwreck and harbour history. Between May and October the coast is prime southern right whale territory; dolphins, sea eagles and New Zealand fur seals are year-round residents. The loop takes 45 to 60 minutes at a relaxed pace.
Practical notes
Free, open 24 hours, and dog friendly on-lead. Start either from the Strand car park or from the Horseshoe Bay foreshore. The main circuit is suitable for large-wheeled prams; a few optional staircases can be bypassed. Bring water and sun protection - there is no shade once you are on the headland.
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Sources
- Harbourmasters Walking Trail - official source - www.walkingsa.org.au (accessed April 2026)