Cape Jervis
Experiences
Cape Jervis and Environs
Cape Jervis is home to some of the best sea and country views to be found in South Australia, with views that overlook Backstairs Passage and Kangaroo Island. Cape Jervis was named by Matthew Flinders after John Jervis, – Lord of the British Admiralty.
The local industries are dairy farming, cropping, tourism, commercial & charter fishing. Cape Jervis is predominantly known as the jumping off point for daily ferry services to Kangaroo Island, however, there are a few things to see and explore whilst you are in the area.
Here are a few ideas….
The Cape Jervis Lookout
Stunning views across backstairs passage towards Kangaroo Island with free binoculars mounted at the lookout.
Lands End & Boat Harbour
This is the tip of the mainland looking towards Kangaroo Island. Starting from the boat harbour and ferry terminals and heading south east, around to fisheries beach.
At the boat harbour is a public jetty which is a popular spot for fishing or watching the activities in the harbour; – keep an eye out for dolphins and seals. Take a walk along the coast exploring the geography of the area whilst enjoying the views.
The beach area is very similar to Fisheries beach in style and accessible on foot only.
The Cape Jervis Lighthouse
The Lighthouse and a marker for the location of the old lighthouse are just below the lookout at the boat harbour. The current, and very modern, lighthouse dates from 1972. This is a century after the first lighthouse on the cape which was first lit on the 10th August 1871.
The current light has a range of 18 nautical miles and is located on the headland known as Lands End. It is located 22 metres above sea level. The foundation of the original 1871 lighthouse is still visible in front of the current building. The current design is an inverted pyramid.
The old lighthouse, the new lighthouse and base of the old lighthouse. Up-close of the new lighthouse.
Morgans Beach
Morgans Beach is an 800m long west facing white sand beach, nestled below 50m high bluffs, up which a sand dune has almost succeeded in reaching the top. It is easily accessible to the public and provides the safest swimming in the area, as it is relatively free of rocks and reefs. All the other beaches, while receiving relatively low waves, are dominated by rocks.
Ideal in any weather, bar a strong northerly 4WD access is available. Just beware of our wildlife, especially the Sandpiper who nests on the ground in the area. Take the Gravel road out of Cape Jervis to the bluff overlooking the southern end of the beach. Rock reefs are at the southern third of the beach, with a sandy seabed off the centre and northern end. Waves average about 0.5m – so no good for surfing.
Fisheries Beach
This is also a great fishing spot, (not so great for swimming). It is a curving south facing beach consisting of a strip of sand and cobbles to the west but dominated by rocks and reefs, from the front and in the east. Look for the ruins of the old whaler’s station, Whaling and settlement were here from the early 1830’s. Ore crushing and dressing operated here during the early 1860’s.
The 1200km Heysen Trail
It starts here. From the Cape Jervis trailhead, this section follows sandy coastal tracks and exposed coastal hillsides. It provides spectacular views over Backstairs Passage to Kangaroo Island. Walkers are often rewarded with sightings of seals and dolphins.
At Blowhole Beach the trail enters Deep Creek Conservation Park to begin the long climb through native bushland to Cobbler Hill. You don’t have to do the whole lot. But there are sections that are easy to access, and the views are amazing.
Fishing Charters
Various companies operate from Cape Jervis, Snapper, Whiting, Salmon, Yellowtail kingfish, Sharks, Trevally, Squid, Snook and more? There is always an opportunity to wet a line, or maybe just a day out. Speak to us to help you contact a local operator.
Fishing Charter Enquiries
