WORDS & IMAGES: Kosta Giannopoulos
Next time you’ve got the kiddos for a day and there is sun and Easterly winds, a fun activity only 30 minutes from the CBD is going to check out the eagle rays at Seacliff. Adelaide’s coastline hides a spectacular “not-so-secret” waiting to be explored at the Seacliff Surf Lifesaving Club.
If you’ve never seen it, you will be surprised by just how shallow these graceful creatures come. If you wade into the water between knee to waist deep, they will glide around you. These gentle creatures are a mesmerizing sight, and your little adventurers will be enthralled. The eagle rays are apparently drawn to this particular spot because recreational fishing boats launch from the beach and sometimes leave scraps of bait or cleaned catch in the shallows. The eagle rays are generally harmless – I’ve seen clueless dogs accidentally stand on them without incident – but of course – just make sure your kids admire from a distance and don’t try and touch them.
If you want to turn this coastal adventure into an underwater safari, bring a snorkel set! Paddle around the nearby seaweed beds and a whole new world opens up. Curious garfish with their long snouts, brightly colored leatherjackets, and even the occasional small and harmless Port Jackson shark could make a surprise appearance. You’ll see schools of fish darting amongst the swaying seaweed, crabs scuttling, and perhaps even a jellyfish. If your young explorers want to venture a little further, stand-up paddleboards are available for hire on the beach.
Even within a major city like Adelaide, nature offers us unexpected surprises. The best part? This activity is completely free, making it a budget-friendly outing. Pack a picnic, some sunscreen, and get ready for an adventure that would make a good Bluey episode.
So, next time the weather smiles upon us, ditch the indoor activities and head to Seacliff for a unique and unforgettable coastal experience.
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