Historic Beachfront Accommodation in Encounter Bay
Yelki by the Sea
A rare heritage beachfront experience in Encounter Bay, near Victor Harbor on the Fleurieu Peninsula.
Stay in a beautifully restored 1830s stone cottage with uninterrupted ocean views.
Yelki by the Sea offers unique accommodation in Encounter Bay, combining the charm of a historic 1830s Cornish stone cottage with the comfort of a thoughtfully restored coastal retreat.
Set right on the beachfront, the cottage enjoys uninterrupted views across the bay and direct access to the coastal walking/bike trail, creating a peaceful and memorable escape just minutes from Victor Harbor.
Seafront Location
Wake to the sound of the ocean, watch the light shift across Encounter Bay, and soak in the quiet charm of a place shaped by history. Just one hour south of Adelaide on the stunning Southern Fleurieu Peninsula, Yelki by the Sea sits directly opposite Wright Island at Encounter Bay. From the doorstep, take a few steps to the beach or follow the pathway to the Bluff and beyond along the Heysen Trail. Prefer to explore on wheels? Ride the coastal pathway into Victor Harbor and continue on to Port Elliot, Goolwa, and the Murray Mouth.
A short amble along the beachfront brings you to The Beach House Café, known for its gourmet pizza and curries, and the ever‑popular Yilki Store. Head the other way toward the Bluff and enjoy a fifteen‑minute coastal walk to Whalers Seaside Dining for a memorable meal with another stunning view.
Romance
Many of our guests tell us they can’t wait to return — and many do, time and again. Come and discover for yourself why people write such heartfelt reflections about their stay at Yelki by the Sea.
Heritage & History
This property holds a special place in South Australia’s early story. The cottage, its attic, and the separate two‑room building above the cellar were built in the early 1830s by Cornish whalers and sealers who had come over from Kangaroo Island. Their influence is unmistakable — the structures echo the style of traditional Cornish buildings, with thick stone walls, substantial timber beams over wide open fireplaces, low ceilings, and even lower doorways that give the place a sense of enduring solidity. In the 1840s the property was significantly expanded, becoming the Fountain Inn in 1847 — a welcome haven for whalers and travellers making their way along the coast.
Cottage Features
Two bedrooms
One with a queen bed and one with a double — each made up with quality linen for a comfortable, restful stay.
Seafront location
A peaceful view from the cottage veranda, looking toward the Bluff and across the garden framed by old trees and open sky.
Fully equipped kitchen
Includes all essentials, plus a full‑sized fridge, stove, oven, microwave and coffee pod machine.
Cosy sitting room
A fire‑lit retreat where the warmth of the wood fireplace and the soft glow of the room invite you to settle in and unwind.
Sunny breakfast room
A light‑filled corner that seats four, opening to peaceful views of the back garden.
Sparkling modern bathroom
Bright and beautifully finished, with bathrobes, soft towels, a hair dryer and thoughtful bathroom amenities for your stay.
Other features:
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Smart TV
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Bluetooth speaker / radio
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Free Wi‑Fi
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Heaters and electric blankets
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Washing machine and dryer
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Small Weber Q BBQ on the front veranda
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Wine and chocolates with our compliments
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Full breakfast provisions available on request
Note:
Although we adore them both, the cottage isn’t suitable for children or pets.
Local Attractions
Whether you’re staying for a few days or settling in for a longer escape, there are wonderful places to explore right outside the front door. Yelki by the Sea is just 6 km from the Victor Harbor town centre and around 80 km south of Adelaide, set on the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula. From here, you can wander the coastal paths, climb the Bluff for sweeping ocean views, stroll the beaches, or enjoy the cafés, galleries and local produce of Victor Harbor and its surrounds. The area is rich with wildlife, walking trails and scenic lookouts, making it an easy place to slow down and savour the landscape.
A beautiful snapshot of the region, offering an inviting overview of the Fleurieu Peninsula — from its coastline and walking trails to its wonderful local wineries.
Visit the Whale Centre or register your details on their website to receive alerts for local whale sightings during your stay. Season: Late May to October
Every Saturday from 8.30 to 12.30, the market buzzes with fresh local produce and friendly community spirit.
Walk beyond the Bluff to explore the beaches, or follow the Heysen Trail all the way to Cape Jervis — my personal favourite stretch of coastline.
Ride into town or follow the coastal path to Port Elliot for lunch at the Flying Fish Café that overlooks the beach at stunning Horseshoe Bay.
A few dining spots we frequent ...
Local dining
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Beach House Café — 1‑minute stroll along the beachfront; great ambience, woodfired pizzas and North Indian curries. Closed Mondays.
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Whalers Seaside Dining — at the base of the Bluff; relaxed deck with water views. Open Wed–Sun (dinner Thu–Sat).
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The Larder Kitchen — modern Australian cuisine, excellent food and wine; lunch and dinner; closed Tuesdays.
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Qahwa — casual beach atmosphere with great coffee and food; open 7 days.
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Siam Seaside — authentic Thai dishes and cocktails; open Tue–Sun for lunch and dinner.
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Lost Phoenix Farm — beautiful seasonal share plates in Hindmarsh Valley (10–15 mins); lunch Wed–Sun, dinner Fri–Sat.
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Swagman Country Dining — at Softfoot Alpaca Farm (15–20 mins); top food, service and views; lunch 7 days.
Further afield
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McLaren Vale — d’Arenberg Cube and d’Arry’s Verandah Restaurant.
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Port Elliot — Crisp, Flying Fish Café overlooking Horseshoe Bay.
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Goolwa — Hays Street, Bombora on the River and Kuti Shack on the beach.
