arrow_back In Robe South Australia · Attraction

Robe Customs House Maritime Museum

Gold rush port history on Royal Circus

directions Directions
Best for History Culture Couples

schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026

Built in 1863 at the centre of Robe's colonial-era shipping precinct, the Customs House is one of more than 70 heritage-listed buildings in and around the town. Now operated as a volunteer-run maritime museum by the National Trust of South Australia, it recreates the world of Robe's customs master during the years 1857 to 1872, a period when Robe was the second busiest port in the colony. Admission is just $3 for adults and free for children.

During the South Australian gold rush era, tens of thousands of Chinese immigrants landed at Robe to avoid the entry tax levied at Victorian ports. The Customs House stood at the heart of this activity, processing cargo and passengers arriving at what was then a thriving deep-water port. The museum presents this history through period artefacts, customs records, and exhibits on the maritime trade that sustained early colonial South Australia. Its position on Royal Circus, the original administrative and commercial heart of Robe, gives visitors a strong sense of the town's historical layout.

Opening hours depend on the availability of trained volunteer guides, so visitors are strongly advised to confirm times in advance by contacting the Robe Visitor Information Centre. Group visits and guided tours can be arranged by appointment. The building sits on a small rise overlooking Guichen Bay, and the historic streetscape of Royal Circus surrounding it, including the old post office and courthouse, makes the precinct worth exploring on foot even when the museum is closed.

Where to stay

Holiday parks near Robe Customs House Maritime Museum.

1 option via our booking partner

Bookings handled by our partner Parkbooker. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Scenic views

Lookouts near Robe Customs House Maritime Museum.

All South Australia lookouts east

You may also like

Suggestions

Quick jump

travel_explore

Nothing found for “”.

Try a shorter or more general term.

Themes

Destinations

Experiences