What to do in Nelson.

Outdoor Activities

 

Fishing

Nelson is a hidden gem for both new and seasoned fishing enthusiasts. There are many accessible fishing locations along the river. The Glenelg River hosts a range of fish including bream, mulloway, estuary perch and mullet. If you are fishing in Victorian waters you will require a fishing permit. Fishing permits are available from the Roadhouse, Nelson Visitor Centre and Nelson Boat Hire. A permit to fish is not required in South Australian waters. Surf fishing from the beach is also fun and a great challenge. On South Australian beaches there are many areas where you are permitted to take a vehicle onto the beach. Please check signage at your location for information about beach access and use.

Swimming

Ocean or river, the choice is yours but we have both. Take a dip or enjoy some time with the family at Estuary beach. Otherwise opt for a swim in the river at one of the many pleasant riverside locations.

Canoeing + Boating

Nelson is a great location for both leisure boating, skiing and canoeing. The river provides a beautiful backdrop for fun on the water. There are 3 boat ramps and two canoe launch sites in the township that are easily accessible to the public. The staff at our local boat and canoe hire facilities can help you with craft hire and provide the latest information about water safety and state boating rules. There is a designated ski zone for skiing and wakeboarding enthusiasts to enjoy. Be sure to book your boats and canoes early as the river is popular during the summer holidays.

Diving + Snorkelling

The World Heritage Picanninnie Ponds is only 10 Minutes from Nelson over the South Australian (SA) border. Look for the beach springs and floating rock. If you’re planning to snorkel or dive in SA while in while on your trip be sure to apply for a permit online. Ewens Ponds is also located off the Port MacDonnell Road but can be be snorkelled with a permit.

Bike riding

There are kilometres of tracks around the town and in the Glenelg River National Park for bike riding with suitable bikes.

Explore
Nature

 

Walking + Hiking

There are numerous trails around Nelson and some offer lovely views of the river and the river mouth. For more infomation about the trails you can get a short walks booklet from the Nelson Visitor Centre. Popular walks include Livingstone Island Nature Walk, Gorge Walk, Lake Mombeong Loop & Sapling Creek Loop. The Great South Western Walk is a superb walk for serious bush walkers. For more information visit greatsouthwestwalk.com

Native Flora + Fauna

There is a huge range of wild animals and birds in the surrounding bush and beach. Due to the unique blending of the town with the bush and river, these are found roaming and living along side the residences. The area also hosts a number of endangered species such as the Rufous Bristlebird and Hooded Plovers. The estuary is an important breeding ground for sea birds of many kinds. Bird lists are available from the Visitor Centre. There are also numerous areas where native wildflowers and plant species thrive.