Kingston SE

Kingston SE (Kingston South East) is a small coastal town in the state of South Australia, known for its long sandy beaches, relaxed fishing culture, and as the home of the famous giant lobster sculpture. It sits along the scenic Limestone Coast, roughly halfway between Adelaide and Mount Gambier, making it a convenient stop on a coastal road trip.

In 2021, it was home to about 1,600 people.

The main industries are fishing, wine-making, sheep and cattle farming and recreation, the district having a large influx of tourists during holiday periods throughout the year.

The extension on its name is to distinguish Kingston in the South East (of South Australia) from another "Kingston" in the state which has been re-named "Kingston on Murray".

Kingston SE has a warm-summer mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, drizzly winters.

Kingston SE lies on the Princes Highway (A1), about 290 km southeast of Adelaide and 150 km northwest of Mount Gambier. The town is most easily reached by car.

A Stateliner regional bus service runs roughly once daily in each direction between Adelaide and Mount Gambier, following the coastal route via Meningie, Coorong National Park, Robe, and Kingston SE.

• -36.823778139.8631941 The Big Lobster. Known locally as “Larry,” this iconic roadside attraction stands about 17 metres tall and celebrates the region’s lobster fishing industry. It’s a classic Australian “Big Thing” and a popular photo stop.  (updated Apr 2026)
• -36.8254139.84742 Kingston Jetty. Stretching out into Lacepede Bay, the jetty is a great place for fishing, walking, or watching pelicans and seabirds.  (updated Apr 2026)
• -36.8359139.846243 Cape Jaffa Lighthouse, 32 Marine Parade. Daily 10AM-3PM during SA school holidays.. This historic lighthouse has been moved from its original location offshore at Cape Jaffa into Kingston and restored. It offers a glimpse into the maritime history of the region. Tour $17, booking recommended.  (updated Sep 2026)
• -36.83129139.850154 Kingston National Trust Museum, 23 Cooke St, ☏ +61 8 8767 2033. Sun 2–4PM (by appointment). The museum features many pioneer items connected with local history, including shipwreck artifacts.  (updated Mar 2025)

• -36.82877139.851651 Bliss, Hanson St. Cake and coffee shop  (updated Oct 2026)
• -36.82862139.85132 The Haven. Seafood  (updated Oct 2026)

• -36.837139.84591 BIG4 Kingston Foreshore Holiday Park, 34A Marine Parade, ☏ +61 8 8767 2050, admin@kingstonforeshorecaravanpark.com.au. Cabins and RV.  (updated Sep 2026)
• -36.8247139.86252 Kingston Lobster Motel, 4 Princes Hwy, ☏ +61 8 8767 2322, stay@lobstermotel.com.au. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 10AM. 14 rooms (two family rooms that can sleep 6). WiFi, swimming pool, BBQ facilities and laundry facilities. 24-hr self check-in.  (updated Sep 2026) ^{[dead link]}

• Robe – A historic seaside town to the northwest with heritage buildings and scenic coastal views.
• Mount Gambier – Famous for the Blue Lake and volcanic landscapes.
• The Coorong – A vast lagoon system and important bird habitat stretching north along the coast.