The West Beach Boat Ramp, also known by some as the Adelaide Shores Boat Ramp, is a well-frequented launch site located on Barcoo Road in West Beach, just outside of Adelaide. Offering easy access to Gulf St Vincent, it’s a convenient and practical option for recreational and commercial boaters alike, including PWC users. Its popularity is due in part to its proximity to productive local fishing grounds and its solid all-around infrastructure.
The West Beach boat ramp and pontoon were upgraded in January 2022. The improvements included replacing the concrete slabs, extending the boat ramp into deeper water, modifying the inner northern breakwater, and conducting maintenance and remediation work on the steel piles. These upgrades were made to enhance the safety of all boat ramp users.
The ramp features four concrete launching lanes, each with floating pontoons to assist with both launching and retrieval. It’s well protected by a breakwater, making the launch process safe and manageable even in less favourable weather conditions. The design allows for a smooth experience for most types of vehicles, with ample space to prepare and recover your vessel.
One point to be mindful of: at very low tide (around 0.0m), those retrieving larger boats should be aware of where the concrete ends beneath the waterline, as it drops away sharply beyond that point.
Given its location and facilities, the ramp is understandably busy, particularly on weekends and public holidays. A usage fee applies, and while there’s a sizeable car and trailer parking area across from the ramp, it can fill up during peak periods.
The ramp is also home to the SA Sea Rescue Squadron, which enhances peace of mind for those heading out onto the water. Adjacent to the ramp is a small jetty used by land-based anglers, sometimes with kids in tow, and some make use of the breakwater wall for fishing as well.
Additional features include a washdown area, toilet facilities, a marine supplies store, a boat rental service, and a stretch of sandy beach nearby that’s ideal for a quiet walk or a bit of time off the water. A coastal bike path runs alongside the beach, and there’s a picnic area on the northern side—ideal for families or anyone wanting to relax after a day out.
Overall, West Beach Boat Ramp is a well-equipped, reliable launching point for a range of water-based activities, including boating, fishing, sailing, and jet-skiing. Its consistent upkeep and accessible design make it one of South Australia’s preferred ramps.
| Feature |
Description |
| Number of ramp lanes |
4 (with pontoons) |
| Fish cleaning facilities |
None |
| Carpark spaces |
Ample car and trailer parking available |
| Amenities |
Toilets, wash down areas, rubbish bins, lighting |
| Ramp rating |
 - Very Good |
If you're looking to purchase a boat or upgrade your boat engine, Christies Beach Marine is the place to visit. Just a 21-minute drive from the ramp, they provide a wide selection of Stacer, Northbank, and Stabicraft boats, and Yamaha and Mercury engines. You can easily trailer your boat to the dealership and back to the ramp without wasting too much time. They also supply trailers, marine gear, fishing supplies, and a variety of other boating equipment.