Unexpected Things to Do in the Riverland

Your local guide to unique Riverland experiences

Looking for different things to do in the Riverland?

Most visitors come for the Murray River.
And they should.

But once you’re here, you start to realise the Riverland isn’t just one experience. It’s a collection of small, memorable moments that sit just outside the obvious.

If you’re planning your trip and wondering:

• What are the best things to do in the Riverland?

• What’s different here compared to other regions?

• What should I not miss?

Start with this.

1. Where can you find a quiet river beach in the Riverland?

Along the Murray, you’ll find natural sandbars that feel like hidden beaches.

Some are wide and golden. Others sit just beneath the surface until the river drops. Either way, they offer something rare, space to yourself.

There is one on our property that you can enjoy after a medium length walk.

Others can be found in Renmark (Paringa Sandbar) and in Loxton (Thiele’s Sandbar).

Tip:
Bring a towel, a drink and give yourself time to stay longer than planned.

2. What’s the best way to experience the Murray River?

The simplest way is often the best.

A canoe or kayak in the early morning gives you a completely different perspective. The water is still, the light is soft, and the river feels undisturbed.

We also recommend hopping aboard a boat and cruising with a local guide. Rivergum Cruises, Renmark River Cruises and Murray River Tinny Tours are our top picks.

3. Can you experience the river’s history?

Yes, and it’s worth doing.

A paddle steamer cruise offers a slower, more grounded way to understand how the river once moved goods, people and stories through the region.

The PS Industry in Renmark has regular steaming days, check with the Renmark Visitor Centre.

4. Are there good walks in the Riverland?

There are, and many people overlook them.

Walking along the Murray reveals a side of the landscape you don’t see from the water. Red gum forests, wetlands and open cliffs all shift your perspective.

Best places to start:

• Parcoola walking trails

• Waikerie Cliff Top Walk

• Hart Lagoon - Waikerie

• Paringa Paddock - Renmark

• Murray River National Park - Berri

• Willabalangaloo - Berri

5. Where do you find local food in the Riverland?

Everywhere, if you know how to look.

The Riverland is one of Australia’s most productive food regions and many venues proudly showcase local produce on their menus.

Best places to eat local:

• Hotel Renmark

• Temperance Restaurant

• Earth Restaurant

• Illalangi Gourmet Providore

• Almondoco Almond Hut

• Woolshed Brewery

• Riverland Sunfresh

6. What’s something unexpected to do in the Riverland?

The Riverland has a playful side.

From local events to fast-paced river experiences, there’s an energy here that surprises people who expect it to be quiet all the time.

Our favourites:

• Hot laps at Loveday 4×4 Adventure Park

• Wakeboarding lesson with Wakesport Experiences

• Brandy distillery tour with St Agnes Brandy

7. Are there any quirky local things worth seeing?

Yes, and they’re part of the charm.

You’ll notice small details across the region that feel uniquely Riverland. They’re not always planned attractions, but they’re often the things people remember most.

• The Big Orange - Berri

• The Big Pelican - Loxton

• The Tree of Knowledge - Loxton

• Paringa Bridge - Renmark

• Locks and Weirs - Renmark, Berri, Overland Corner

• The Overland Corner Hotel

8. When is the best time to be on the river?

Late afternoon into sunset.

The light softens, the temperature drops slightly, and the river reflects everything around it. It’s one of the most grounding times of day to be here.

9. Can you learn about the region while visiting?

You can, and it adds depth to your stay.

From irrigation history to winemaking and distilling, the Riverland is shaped by people who understand the land and the river.

Take the time to ask questions. You’ll get more out of it.

10. Do you need a strict itinerary?

No.

In fact, the Riverland is best experienced with space in your plans.

Leave room for a longer lunch. A second glass of wine. A stop you didn’t expect to make.

11. What’s the most relaxing thing to do here?

Sit by the river and stay there.

It sounds simple, but it’s often what people need most. A moment without urgency, where time feels less structured.

12. How should you experience the Riverland overall?

Slowly.

This isn’t a place to rush through. It’s a place to settle into. The more time you give it, the more it gives back.

Where to stay to experience the Riverland properly

If you want to experience the Riverland this way, where you stay matters.

Being close to the river allows you to move easily between exploring and slowing down. It gives you space to reset between moments.

Parcoola Retreats offers a private, considered stay on the banks of the Murray River in Waikerie. A place to base yourself, unpack once, and experience the region at your own pace.

Planning your Riverland stay?

If you’re mapping out your trip, a few helpful starting points:

• Allow at least 2–3 nights

• Plan one or two anchor experiences per day

• Leave space in between

The Riverland isn’t about doing more.
It’s about experiencing things more fully.