Pearl the penguin: everything we know so far

A rare white penguin was found in poor condition on a South Australian beach. Here’s what we know.

Yesterday, an adorable creature now known as Pearl the penguin washed up in a debilitated state on Boomer Beach along South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula. While the occasional Little Penguin, like Pearl, is known to be washed up in this area in a sorry state, what makes Pearl so special is her extremely rare white colour, or leucistic condition.

“It’s a genetic mutation; it’s just random chance," explained Justin Biddle, Wildlife Centre Manager at Wildlife Welfare Organisation (SA) Inc (WWO).

Although it’s very rare to spot a leucistic penguin, Biddle is fairly sure it’s not the first for the state.

“I have heard there’s been another [leucistic penguin] in South Australia, in 2011. It was rehabilitated by another rescue group, but they have since disbanded."

pearl the penguin wrapped in a towel at Wildlife Welfare Organisation (SA) Inc

Pearl was taken in and cleaned up by WWO. (Image: Justin Biddle)

What was wrong with Pearl the penguin?

While Biddle says it was clear Pearl was in a bad way, it’s unclear exactly what led to it.

“She’s just had a bit of a rough go," he said. “She was struggling to fish and find food and was quite debilitated. She might have had a minor injury at some point that has prohibited her from hunting so well. We have wormed her… so she might have quite a high parasite load as well."

“Usually, it’s a crossover of different factors that causes it. Unless you know the history and what’s happened beforehand, it’s hard to say for sure".

According to Biddle, the current microalgae bloom on the Fleurieu Peninsula, which has already caused waves of dead fish to wash ashore, isn’t believed to be the cause of Pearl’s health issues.

“We’re not really thinking it’s the algal bloom because we’re not having other larger creatures rock up, it’s mainly just dead fish," he explained.

“[Being leucistic] is obviously quite a rare condition and [penguins] born this way might have a lesser chance of survival. But it’s hard to tell if she’s having a rough go of life due to her colour or… whether it’s just random chance."

pearl the penguin taking a bath at Wildlife Welfare Organisation (SA) Inc

Her rare colour might have contributed to her condition. (Image: Justin Biddle)

What will happen to Pearl the penguin?

Thankfully, Pearl is currently putting on weight and looks like she will make a full recovery. But Biddle warns that she is not out of the woods just yet. He says that while WOO’s first approach is always to release rehabilitated marine life back to the ocean, it might be decided it’s not the best thing for her.

“In South Australia, we’re governed by permits and regulations from the Department of Environment and Water, which covers the National Parks and Wildlife Services. So it would be a discussion with them – and maybe a few other researchers and experts – to see what happens. She might be released, or she might need to stay in captivity."

“If it’s decided that captivity is the best for her, the experts will make a recommendation on where she goes," he shared. “But it’ll need to be somewhere that already has a colony of Little Penguins in care".

Here’s hoping little Pearl bounces back sooner rather than later.

pearl the penguin at Wildlife Welfare Organisation (SA) Inc

Pearl is expected to make a full recovery. (Image: Justin Biddle)

Originally written by Alexis Buxton-Collins with updates by Megan Arkinstall

From secluded hilltop retreats to off-grid cabins and a beautifully restored mill, these are the most luxurious places to stay in McLaren Vale.

Wedged between lush rolling hills and the sparkling blue sea, McLaren Vale is Australia’s most naturally beautiful wine region. It’s the kind of place that begs you to toast the sunset after a day spent touring the local wineries and restaurants, and the best spot to do that is at one of the opulent retreats dotted around the idyllic valley.

Whether you’re dreaming of sinking into an outdoor bath while enjoying expansive hilltop views or going off-grid and immersing yourself in the bush, these McLaren Vale luxury accommodation options will make you wish you could stay just a few more days.

1. Beresford Estate Suites and Villas

lush greenery surrounding Beresford Estate Suites and Villas

The shiraz-lined Beresford Estate boasts bucolic views. (Image: Supplied)

Nestled among 28 hectares of vines, this collection of suites and villas on Beresford Estate combines bucolic views, luxury and cosiness. Lining the 35-year-old shiraz vines, the studio plan Reserve Suites are comfortable and elegantly appointed, featuring kitchenettes, lounge areas, spacious bathrooms stocked with Australian-made products, a plush queen bed and a private deck overlooking the vines.

The Grand Reserve Suites are slightly larger, with a private bedroom, bathtub and an outdoor area with a plunge pool with sweeping vineyard views. The Shiraz Villa is another studio suite with a four-poster bed for a romantic vibe, while the Grenache Villa is housed in a historic 19th-century cottage and can sleep six – perfect for a group of friends. Guests receive a tasty selection of breakfast provisions to enjoy each morning.

While the accommodation is near some excellent wineries and dining options, you can meander to the sleek onsite Vale Restaurant, which doubles as a microbrewery. Or spend an afternoon in the Tasting Room with a cheese platter and some award-winning Beresford Estate wines, inside by the fireplace or on the deck in the sunshine.

Address: 252 Blewitt Springs Rd, McLaren Flat

2. Rare Earth Retreats

an outdoor tub at Rare Earth Retreats, McLaren Vale

Relax in the outdoor tub while admiring vineyard views. (Image: Supplied)

Opened in November 2024, Rare Earth Retreats is McLaren Vale’s newest stay, offering a luxury, off-grid experience with an exceptionally chic design. Each of the three retreats is inspired by the elements of stone, clay and slate and powered entirely by the sun, fed completely by rainwater and celebrates local craftsmanship. The South Australian artists from creative hub JamFactory designed and crafted the exclusive pieces to fit within these spaces.

The retreats are each fitted with a king bed, kitchen and spacious bathroom, indoor and outdoor fireplace, outdoor bath, and private decks with sweeping views of McLaren Vale. Breakfast provisions are included, with in-house massages, facials and private yoga classes are also available.

Address: 23 Coppermine Rd, McLaren Vale

3. Hillenvale

a look inside the living room at Hillenvale, Kangarilla

Relax in this cosy and sleek stone cottage. (Image: Jonathan van der Knaap)

At the junction of Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale, this rugged and secluded property is home to a charming stone cottage that makes for a cosy couple’s retreat. Set on a hillside, with views of the surrounding landscape where kangaroos and sheep roam freely, you’ll feel as though you’ve truly escaped to the country. The cottage features a full ‘country kitchen’, lounge, fireplace and outdoor deck, and is styled in a calming neutral palette with exquisite furnishings.

Also on the property, a vine-covered 1859-built homestead is undergoing a meticulous restoration and will be available to book soon. The homestead boasts five bedrooms, a kitchen and dining room, a lounge, a study and a wine cellar, so will be an idyllic stay for families and groups.

Address: 194 Cut Hill Rd, Kangarilla

4. Shadow Creek

the living room interior of Shadow Creek, McLaren Vale

The eight-hectare Shadow Creek property is perfect for families. (Image: Sabine Verhack Photography)

In the heart of McLaren Vale, this stay is perched on a crest of the eight-hectare Shadow Creek vineyard property. From every window, you’ll spy vineyards, rolling hills and even ocean views but not another soul – because you’re the only guests.

The two-person suite has a king bed, a double shower and a deep soaking bath, a living area with a double fireplace, a full kitchen and a deck with a barbecue, from where you can take in those vistas. Guests receive a delicious grazing plate filled with local goodies.

The winery’s cellar door is set to open early 2025 and is nestled among gums on Turraparri Creek, which runs through the property. Guests can visit for a tasting, arrange a massage on the deck, have a gourmet picnic in the vineyard or be whisked away by helicopter to lunch somewhere in the Vale.

Address: Cnr Edwards Rd and Jackson Hill Rd, McLaren Vale

5. The Vineyard Retreat

the exterior lounge deck at The Vineyard Retreat in McLaren Vale

Spend your next luxury escape in The Vineyard Retreat.

The Vineyard McLaren Vale is a six-hectare working vineyard with six accommodation options to stay in, each with its own unique character.

There are two chic tiny homes set on the edge of the shiraz block, with a studio layout featuring a king bed, wood fireplace and underfloor heating. And four luxuriously appointed guesthouses, including The Ardmore which sleeps two people and has views out to the Chapel Hill ridgeline, and The Highland which sleeps four in two bedrooms and boasts a wraparound balcony.

All stays include a complimentary mini-bar and breakfast provisions. There is also a range of experiences to book through The Vineyard including a scenic helicopter flight with lunch and a guided wine and gourmet tour of McLaren Vale and the Adelaide Hills.

Address: 165 Whitings Rd, Blewitt Springs

6. Vale194

Retreat into this rustic abode. (Image: Harry Vick)

Smack bang in the heart of McLaren Vale, on Main Street, these five self-contained cottages ooze charm with a bluestone exterior but are ultra-modern inside. Behind a rustic wooden gate, the two-storey, three-bedroom stays boast spacious kitchens, dining and lounge areas, and full laundries. They have heated floors for the cooler months and cute outdoor courtyards with barbecues for warm evenings.

An ideal option for families or groups of friends, Vale194 is within walking distance of the town’s restaurants and wine bars, and next to the entrance of the Shiraz Trail, a flat bike path that runs from McLaren Vale to Willunga, connecting cellar doors.

Address: 1-5/194 Main Rd McLaren Vale

7. Weemilah Luxury Retreat

Perched 200 metres above the valley floor at the southern end of the Vale, this off-grid sanctuary looks out over the entire region. The large open plan living area has slate floors, a wood-burning stove and floor-to-ceiling windows to maximise the views, while the two king bedrooms each have an en suite and private deck so you can enjoy the surrounds in solitude.

There’s plenty of wildlife on the 52-acre property thanks to 15000 native trees and shrubs, and the epic views get even better when seen through a curtain of mist rising from the deep outdoor soaking tub or on a helicopter tour led by one of the property’s owners, who can drop you off for lunch at one of McLaren Vale’s best restaurants.

Address: 187 Delabole Rd, Willunga

8. Hotel California Road

Huge bath looking out a large glass window at Hotel California Road in McLaren Vale.

Relax in the freestanding bath with a glass of vino. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Josie Withers)

From the outside, this luxurious micro-hotel looks like a chaotic Jenga tower made from shipping containers stacked on top of one another, but inside it’s a different story.

Each of the three 50 square metre king suites is immaculately appointed with a futuristic floating king bed, a soaking tub (with a wine glass holder) flanked by floor-to-ceiling windows and a large deck just metres from the vines.

The adults-only policy makes it the perfect spot for a relaxing escape and if you don’t feel like driving to the local wineries, the Inkwell cellar door is directly above the suites so it’s easy to wander back after a leisurely tasting and raid the well-stocked minibar.

Address: 377 California Rd, Tatachilla

9. Ukiyo House

Ukiyo House makes liberal use of natural materials including charred shou sugi ban timber. (Image: Jenah Piwanski)

With a semicircle of limestone cliffs ringing a perfect aquamarine bay and one of McLaren Vale’s best restaurants, Port Willunga is understandably busy in summer. Not that you’d know it if you’re staying at this blissful hideaway just 300 metres away.

The immaculately appointed single-bedroom house is an oasis of tranquillity that makes liberal use of natural materials including charred shou sugi ban timber, rammed earth walls and Venetian plastering.

Kayaks and beach equipment make it easy to explore the beach, but the modern kitchen is equipped with everything down to scales and measuring cups and a welcome pack of local gin, wine, granola and almonds alongside a candle with the retreat’s signature scent (bergamot and pine) mean it’s just as tempting to stay in and relax and enjoy the serenity.

Address: 37 Martin St, Port Willunga

10. CABN X

CABN X is a step up from most of the off-grid offerings around Australia.

Down a dirt road from the Gemtree cellar door on McLaren Vale’s quieter western side, these two cabins are a serious step up from most of the off-grid offerings popping up around the country.

While one is clad in blond timber and the other opts for a darker palette, each has a spacious bedroom, kitchen and bathroom with mirrors that unfrost at the touch of a button, as well as a sauna looking out over the surrounding vineyards.

Even better is the giant outdoor bath that’s roomy enough for two people to sit comfortably while being serenaded by native birds, while the moon window above the bed means you can fall asleep looking up at the stars.

Address: 796 Main Road, McLaren Vale

11. The Old Chaff Mill Retreat

The Old Chaff Mill Retreat in McLaren Vale

The Old Chaff Mill Retreat is truly a place of rest and relaxation. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Old meets new at this lovingly restored 1872 chaff mill on an organic, biodynamic property set amid lush vineyards, and olive and almond groves.

Comprising two buildings, The Granary and The Millery, these two palatial suites (one is 90 square metres, the other 120) are built with thick stone walls and soundproof doors, and packed with antique fittings such as a chandelier made from a two-metre long pine winnower that harks back to the venue’s original use.

Nowadays, it’s well and truly a place of rest and relaxation thanks to features such as loft bedrooms, outdoor baths and record players, as well as an onsite day spa offering a range of treatments.

Address: 371 Plains Rd, Sellicks Hill

12. The Jetty

Interior of The Jetty Port Willunga with water views

The apartments are bathed in light. (Image: The Jetty Port Willunga)

When it comes to beach views, you can’t beat these four waterfront apartments in Port Willunga. Fortunately, it’s easy to share them, thanks to large open-plan dining areas designed for entertaining and downstairs apartments that have two bedrooms each.

Address: 16 Esplanade, Port Willunga

13. Altamira

Altamira is surrounded by grapes and gums.

Surrounded by grapes and gums in the rolling hills near McLaren Vale’s northern border, this spacious property is perfect for larger groups.

Three bedrooms with en suites and a studio apartment with its own kitchen and living area are connected by a spacious shared entertaining area decorated in a sophisticated mid-century style.

Floor-to-ceiling windows maximise views out over the surrounding shiraz vines, but no matter your tipple, the wraparound verandah is the go-to spot for sundowners before heading back inside to tackle one of the many board games supplied by the owners.

Address: 351 Chapel Hill Rd, McLaren Vale

Pearl the rare white penguin found in SA is “not out of the woods yet”