Head to the beach these school holidays

Did you know some of SA’s marine life is found nowhere else on earth?

Our marine areas boast iconic species such as the southern right whale, bottlenose dolphin, leafy sea dragon, Australian sea lion and giant cuttlefish.

To give more South Australians the opportunity to experience and learn about these unique marine environments a program of 40 events and activities is on these school holidays.

The Immerse Yourself campaign includes a range of activities in diverse locations across the state, many of which are free.

Here’s some of the options you can enjoy:

• Snorkel in and around sanctuary zones at a ‘come and try’ snorkelling day, experiencing firsthand the benefits of protecting marine life. These events are run by trained experts from Experiencing Marine Sanctuaries, a non-government organisation created to raise awareness, understanding and involvement in marine conservation.
• Join a ranger for a guided reef walk at Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park and learn more about the sea life in the Southern Spencer Gulf Marine Park.
• Discover the marine parks and coastal life around Robe on a rockpool ramble, mysteries of the sea tour or guided birdwatching session.
• Fish, build sandcastles and snorkel in Port Noarlunga Reef Sanctuary Zone at a free family fun day.

To coincide with the Immerse Yourself program Nature Play SA has announced that January’s park of the month is Encounter Marine Park, adjacent to the Fleurieu Peninsula.

The area offers some of Australia’s best preserved ocean wilderness including spectacular reefs and vitally important fish breeding and shelter areas.

Stay tuned to the Nature Play SA website for more information, including a list of 25 things to discover in Encounter Marine Park, and to register for a Nature Play Passport.

With so much to see and do, summer is the perfect time to get out and about in SA’s marine parks.

Many of the Immerse Yourself events and activities are free, however bookings are required.

We would love to hear about your experiences in out marine parks this summer. Share your comments and photos below.