In the small coastal town of Marion Bay at the edge of rugged and spectacular Innes National Park, is the local social hub of Marion Bay Tavern, owned by Josh Harkin and his family.
Tucked away on the toe of the Peninsula, “The Tav” boasts all day pizzas and an innovative and fresh menu of fantastic options. It’s the perfect location to wind down after a day of exploring local beaches and bushland.
The building is constructed with a unique blend of materials including old jetty pylons, corrugated iron and an extensive use of jarrah timbers. Josh ensures the atmosphere is warm and welcoming and creates the perfect place to enjoy the superb outlook to the jetty and the beautiful blue waters of the bay.
Live like a local
A mere four kilometres from Marion Bay will find you immersed in the beauty of Innes National Park where Josh enjoys taking his wife, Megan and three children, Flynn, Poppy and Olive. “I love hitting Pondalowie Bay with the kids, taking out the boat or just bushwalking. There are some great tracks around the park and the native animals are plentiful. There are awesome and unforgettable views across Kangaroo Island and the Althorp and Gambier Islands. When you first crest the road towards Chinaman’s Beach you will see a view that I guarantee you will never forget.”
Whenever he gets a chance, Josh heads out to the pristine local waters, often on Marion Bay Fishing Charters, which depart from both Marion Bay and Pondalowie Bay. “I love catching reef fish such as nannagai, Queen snapper and blue fin tuna. With an experienced skipper on board, these are plentiful around the coast. If the charter isn’t long enough I love to stay out at Wedge Island Retreat and hit the sea again the next day. Marion Bay Fishing Charters has the Wedge Island Wilderness Retreat which adds another dimension to the whole outing.”
marionbayfishingcharters.com.au
For a great start to the morning, Josh recommends heading to Beach Break. “They have a great selection of breakfast ideas and it’s great to start the day with a friendly chat with the owners. The café is just around the corner from the tavern so it’s easy for me to get out, stretch my legs and grab one of their excellent coffees. They also sell surf hardware so it’s a one stop shop for anyone heading into Innes National Park or to the beaches.”
5 Stenhouse Bay Road, Marion Bay
While it’s a half hour drive north, Josh is enthusiastic about the attractions of the Warooka Golf Club. “I really think this is the best value golf club in the world. Hilly, long, green and well maintained, for $10 you can have a fantastic outing with friends. The club has held the state sand green titles and is supported by a great committee of volunteers who really put back into their club in a big way. Heading up to Warooka for a hit of golf in winter is one of my favourite ways to relax.”
18 Sturt Bay Road, Warooka
Read more about Yorke Peninsula in the 2019 issue online here.
