Discover the Onkaparinga River: A Local's Favourite SUP Spot

Hey, if you're looking for a seriously good paddle that won't stress you out, you need to check out the stretch of the Onkaparinga River between Port Noarlunga South and Old Noarlunga. While everyone's flocking to the more famous coastal spots, us locals have been quietly enjoying some of the most sheltered, calm waters South Australia has to offer.

This section of the Onkaparinga isn't just another place to paddle – it's one of those hidden gems that makes you feel like you've discovered something special. The protected waters wind through open landscapes and natural vegetation, taking you from the dramatic river mouth where fresh water meets the sea, all the way upstream to the peaceful Old Noarlunga area. It's perfect whether you're just finding your feet on a SUP or you're an experienced paddler looking for a peaceful morning session.

What makes this stretch really great is how accessible it is. There are several quality launch points along the way – from the recently upgraded facilities at Wearing Street near the mouth, to Perry's Bend and Market Square Reserve up at Old Noarlunga. You can pick your starting point depending on what kind of paddle you're after, how far you want to go, and what the tide's doing.

Ready to discover why locals have been keeping this spot to themselves? Let's dive into everything you need to know about paddling this beautiful section of the Onkaparinga River – from the best places to launch to what you'll see along the way.

Where to Launch Your SUP

One of the best things about the Onkaparinga is having multiple launch options. Here's the rundown on each spot:

Wearing Street Aquatic Precinct

This is the spot if you want top-notch facilities. The precinct just received a massive upgrade completed in 2024, and it shows. You have modern amenities, plenty of parking for cars and trailers, a large pavilion with seating, and safe water access with new ramps leading down to a protected river beach area. It's home to the Onkaparinga Canoe Club and other water sports groups, so you know it's set up properly for paddlers.

Getting there is easy – from Saltfleet Street, turn into Clarke Street, then left into Wearing Street. The car park's at the end of the road. From here, it's only 1.6km to the river mouth, making it perfect for a quick paddle or if you want to practice your skills in the moving water at the mouth on an outgoing tide.

Perry's Bend

This one's a bit further upstream in the Onkaparinga Recreation Park. From Main South Road, turn onto River Road and travel about 1.5km before turning left into the Onkaparinga Recreation Park. From here, it's roughly 2km upstream to Old Noarlunga, or you can head downstream for the longer 5.6km paddle to the mouth. This launch point gives you access to explore different sections of the river and connects to the Onkaparinga River National and Recreation Parks trail network.

Market Square Reserve, Old Noarlunga

This is your launch point if you're starting from the historic township of Old Noarlunga. Market Square Reserve is the community hub – first settled back in 1840 when the area was all fruit and veg farms for the early colony. You have shady trees, grassed areas with picnic tables, BBQ facilities in a covered area, and toilets. Just keep in mind that parking is a bit limited here, and the launch site can get muddy at low tide.

If you're traveling from the south, take the Patapinda Road exit and follow it around into the township – Market Square Reserve is on your left with the Noarlunga Institute Hall on the corner. From here, you can head downstream for the 8.6km journey to the mouth. If you're keen to explore upstream on a high tide, you can paddle about 500m or so behind the Old Noarlunga Football Club before the river becomes unnavigable.

Planning Your Paddle

Here's the thing about the Onkaparinga – it's tidal, so the river's personality changes throughout the day. This is actually a good thing because you can use the tide to your advantage.

Always check the wind and tidal information before you head out. A smart strategy is to paddle against the tide first while you're fresh, then turn around before the tide changes so you can ride it back to your launch point. Just keep in mind that when the tide changes, it takes a while for the water to actually start moving, so you need to time your turnaround carefully.

Distance Options:

• Wearing Street to river mouth: 1.6km (perfect for beginners or a quick session)
• Perry's Bend to Old Noarlunga: 2km upstream
• Market Square Reserve to river mouth: 8.6km (a solid workout)
• Wearing Street to Market Square Reserve: approximately 7km

If you're paddling upstream from Old Noarlunga, the river becomes unnavigable about 1km past the South Road bridge, though on a high tide you can explore about 500m behind the Old Noarlunga Football Club.

What You'll Experience

The Onkaparinga River paddle is all about variety. Down near the mouth at Port Noarlunga South, you have that exciting mix of river meeting ocean – it's a great spot to practice moving water skills in a relatively safe environment when the tide's going out. The landscape here is more dramatic, and you might spot some marine life making their way between the river and sea.

As you head upstream, the river winds through open landscapes with natural vegetation along the banks. It's peaceful, protected, and the kind of paddle where you can really switch off and enjoy being on the water. The section passes through the Encounter Marine Park Sanctuary Zone, adding to the natural beauty of the experience.

The stretch around Perry's Bend and up to Old Noarlunga takes you through the Onkaparinga River National and Recreation Parks, so there's a network of cycle paths and walking trails along the banks if you have family or friends who want to meet you along the way.

Tips for Paddling the Onkaparinga

Facilities: Toilets are available at Wearing Street and Market Square Reserve in Old Noarlunga. Cafes and restaurants are a short drive away in Port Noarlunga if you want to grab a coffee or bite to eat after your paddle.

Best Times: Early morning paddles are magic – the water's usually calmer and you'll have the river pretty much to yourself. Check the tide times and plan accordingly. High tide gives you more options for exploring, especially if you want to paddle further upstream from Old Noarlunga.

Skill Levels: This river really does cater to everyone. Beginners should stick to the calmer upstream sections between the launch points, especially on a day with minimal wind. The 1.6km from Wearing Street to the mouth is achievable for most paddlers. If you're more experienced and want to practice moving water skills, the river mouth on an outgoing tide is your spot – just make sure conditions are suitable and you're confident in your abilities.

Safety First: Always wear your leash, check the weather forecast, and let someone know where you're paddling and when you expect to be back. While life jackets aren't legally required for this section of the river when you're staying close to shore, wearing one is always a smart choice. The Onkaparinga is generally pretty forgiving, but respect the tidal flows and don't push beyond your skill level. Be aware that conditions can change with tides and wind, and the river can have shallow or muddy spots at low tide.

Getting Started

The Onkaparinga River between Port Noarlunga South and Old Noarlunga is one of those spots that keeps giving. Whether you're after a quick 20-minute paddle or a full morning exploring 8km of river, it's all there waiting for you. The calm, sheltered conditions make it perfect for building your confidence, and the multiple launch points mean you can mix it up and try different sections.

If you're new to SUP or looking to upgrade your gear for river paddling, check out our range at SUPMOJO. We have boards suited to all conditions and skill levels, and we're always happy to help you find the right setup for the kind of paddling you want to do.

So grab your board, check the tide, and discover why the Onkaparinga River is a local favourite. See you on the water!

For more detailed paddling trail information, visit Paddling Trails South Australia