221 kms from Adelaide

Coobowie is a small relaxed coastal town near the south-eastern tip of Yorke Peninsula. The town was proclaimed in 1875, with the word Coobowie coming from an Aboriginal word meaning "wild fowl water". The early explorers found Coobowie an attractive area. In fact early explorers presumed that there must be fresh water available, because the area around the bay was so beautiful. After travelling some distance inland and finding none, they grumpily named the beautiful spot Deception Bay. Now known as the 'Pelican Port', the Coobowie estuary is home to a fascinating array of birdlife. 

The shallow waters of Coobowie's bay are ideal for small children. When the tide goes out, they can walk for miles fossicking for small crabs, shells and marine life that can only be found on Yorke Peninsula. The beach is ideal for swimming and fishing, as well as long walks.

Take a walk or cycle along the coastal trail between Coobowie and Edithburgh. An easy 5 kms, it takes in rugged coastline and abundant bird life, with glimpses of Gulf St Vincent.

Nestled at the edge of the Coobowie Estuary is a wonderful bird hide to enable you to watch our feathered friends go about their business. The bird hide has been built by the Coobowie Progress Association, and offers views of birds feeding on the low water line in the Estuary. Bird identification brochures are available at the General Store and at the Caravan Park. Six hundred native trees have been planted and the area will be a beautiful natural habitat for the land and sea birds once these plants are established. Interpretive signage has been placed in the area to assist visitors and seating provides rest stops so you can take in the magnificent views.

Coobowie visitor information outlet, located in the TnT Dinabite store, can provide information on the local area, as well as maps and brochures. 

Coobowie Aquatic Reserve

The Coobowie Aquatic Reserve was declared for the 'protection of important fish nursery habitats.' The reserve consists of two areas which are both located to the south and south west respectively of the town:

• Area 1 which is the area of Salt Creek Bay north of a line from Giles Point to a causeway on the west side of the Bay. Activities allowed include fishing from boat or shore using rod and line or handline, collecting bait from the beach, boating, diving and swimming

• Area 2 is a small estuary known as Salt Swamp Creek located to the west side of both Salt Creek Bay and the causeway. Fishing or the collection or removal of any marine organisms is prohibited in this area.