On the second day of my Adelaide trip, I came to St Kilda Adventure Playground just for the two four-storey slides.
St Kilda Adventure Playground reviews
Getting here from Adelaide CBD is actually not very convenient. I took the train to Mawson Lakes, then for the remaining 15km I could only spend “a huge amount” on an Uber. The wait was almost half an hour because the Uber drivers were all coming from the city.
But it was really so much fun! I tried every single slide. Probably because the clothes I wore today were all silky smooth material, the experience doubled. On one of the slides, there was a mum with two little kids in front of me. The three of them all got stuck halfway down, while I kept accelerating all the way to the bottom. I was called the “shiny pen.”
This playground is built right next to St Kilda Beach. Besides the super fun slides and flying fox, the scenery is also really nice. Lying on the grass, feeling the breeze, and looking at the sea was so relaxing. It’s just a pity I was in such a rush.
Before coming, I hesitated a little. One reason was I was worried I wouldn’t be able to get a car back and might miss my flight. Another reason was Adelaide has so many fun places. A Kangaroo Island day trip, Hahndorf, wineries, Monarto Safari Park, Carrick Hill, and Glenelg Beach all tempted me.
But I still quickly decided to listen to what I truly wanted.
I hope I can always be honest with myself, always seriously feel and trust my body and my heart.
Things to Know Before You Go
Note: The playground does not provide lockers. Since I had a flight in the afternoon, I came directly with my backpack. After thinking for a bit, I put my phone, passport, and wallet into my pockets, then simply left my backpack on the beach and ran off to play. Everyone can try bringing fewer things.
St Kilda Adventure Playground can be called the ultimate slide playground in Adelaide. It is really big and beautiful. It is quite far from the city, about a little over half an hour by car. If you’re visiting with kids, you can happily spend the whole day here.
What to Expect at the Playground
Choose a sunny morning, bring plenty of water, lots of food, and a sun hat, then you’re ready to go.
The playground sits by the sea, and you can even smell the salty air. From far away, you can already see the industrial-style slides arranged at different heights, looking like a giant robot lying here.
When my kid was just over two years old, Dad always held him while going on the slides. Now at over three years old, he can play on the smaller slides by himself. Don’t let some of the tall slides scare you. The safety design is actually very good. There is a long run-out section at the bottom, so even a 200-jin (about 100kg) baby won’t shoot straight off the end onto the ground. (Don’t ask me how I know.)
Photo Spots at St Kilda Adventure Playground
The pirate ship and the two giant swings are very photogenic. If you like taking photos, don’t miss them.
Of course, if your kid is still very young, there is also a toddler park included.
Nearby Pink Lake
After getting tired, just find a grassy spot, eat something, then get ready to head home.
On the way back, you can stop by the Pink Lake. It is really beautiful.
Address:
470 St Kilda Rd, St Kilda SA 5110
Tips
- Definitely try to avoid school holidays. There are so many people you’ll think every kid in Adelaide came.
- Bring plenty of water and food.
- Don’t forget your hat and sunglasses.
- If you love slides, choose your shoes carefully. Some shoes come with built-in brake function.
- It is windy by the sea, so bring an extra layer of clothing.
FAQs
Is St Kilda Adventure Playground free?
Yes, the playground is completely free to enter and is one of the biggest adventure playgrounds in Adelaide.
How far is St Kilda Adventure Playground from Adelaide CBD?
It is around a 35–45 minute drive from Adelaide CBD. Public transport is possible, but getting there usually requires a train to Mawson Lakes followed by a taxi or Uber.
Is St Kilda Adventure Playground suitable for toddlers?
Yes. Besides the large adventure equipment, there is a dedicated toddler play area for younger kids.
Are the giant slides safe?
Yes. Although the slides look very tall, they have long run-out sections at the bottom to help slow riders down.
Are there lockers at St Kilda Adventure Playground?
No. There are no lockers, so it’s best to bring only the essentials.
How long should you spend at St Kilda Adventure Playground?
Most families can easily spend half a day or even a full day here, especially if bringing a picnic.
What should I bring?
Bring plenty of water, food, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable shoes, and an extra jacket because it can be quite windy by the beach.
What else can I visit nearby?
You can stop by the nearby Pink Lake after your visit, or combine it with other Adelaide attractions like Kangaroo Island, Hahndorf, Monarto Safari Park, Carrick Hill, wineries, or Glenelg Beach.