As the name suggests Long Beach is a very long beach. Situated in Guichen Bay beside the tranquil coastal community of Robe, it is a sweeping arc of pristine white sands on the southeast coast of South Australia.
Long Beach is about 7 miles (11 kilometers) in length. What makes this beach quite unique is that you can go for a drive along the beach in a regular car. The unusual consistency of the sand makes the surface compacted and therefore hard, allowing cars to drive along the beach without the wheels sinking too deep into the sand. Find your own secluded spot to park or just enjoy the feeling of the wind in your hair as you take in the scenery at a leisurely speed.
Play a fun beach game or build a sturdy sandcastle with the easy to mould sands. Once you’ve worked up a sweat, jump in for a refreshing swim in the clear waters. The part of the beach nearest to Robe is car free and offers a more sheltered environment for swimming. Farther along the beach the waves get bigger and only suit more confident swimmers.
Jump on a surfboard and catch some of the larger waves that roll in along the length of the beach. The southern end offers more gentle waves breaking over a sandbar, while the northern end serves up large, smooth waves ideal for more experienced surfers. Try some body surfing if you’d rather stay in the shallows, but watch for rip tides as you head north along the beach.
Relax on the sand and enjoy a lazy sunbathing session or a picnic. Drive farther along the beach for a chance to find your own secluded spot with just the rolling waves in front of you and dunes rising behind you. For a meal, head to the southern end near Robe for great café options just across the parklands from the beach.
Long Beach is easily reached on foot from Robe. There is free parking close to the beach and you can also park on the beach outside of the car-free zone if you wish. Toilet facilities are located near the southern end.