Henley Beach might be best known as a summertime destination, but this winter the seaside suburb is keeping beachgoers cozy with SALA by the Sea.

For the sixth year in a row, Henley Beach is embracing the SALA Festival – a visual art exhibition that celebrates South Australia’s emerging and established artists.

This comes as no surprise, as, in recent years, the once quiet suburb has quickly become a vibrant and exciting community that welcomes creativity and change.

Henley’s new sense of life is largely a result of the re-development of Henley Square and the adjacent Henley Square Pavilion several years ago, and establishment of modern venues such as Seamore’s, Melt Henley, Acacia and West at Henley.

Ous Property director and community local Laz Ouslinis says that commercial development, combined with local parks, reserves and esplanade views, has transformed Henley Beach into a stimulating and family-friendly destination, both to visit and call home.

“Henley Beach is a safe and convenient area; it has various schools to choose from, clean parks and pathways, and now with this development families and visitors can shop and enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert from a range of venues,” Laz says.

There are more than 40 venues taking part in SALA this month, including many of the cafés, restaurants and speciality businesses Henley Beach has produced over the years.

Naomi Schwartz Jewellery Design Gallery is one of the must-see locations participating.

The open plan gallery produces and sells an extensive collection of hand-made South Australian jewellery.

Naomi Schwartz

Located inside the pavilion across from Henley’s upmarket Foodland, the store is perfectly situated for customers to enjoy SALA, with many of her Pavilion neighbours also joining in.

This year, the SALA exhibition in Naomi’s gallery is titled Reflections by the Sea and features the work of 13 local artists.

As a local herself, Naomi also advocates for the beachside suburb, no matter what the season.

“Even as it gets cold there is so much to do,” she says.

“Take a walk along the beach, have a cocktail whilst watching the sunset and then enjoy the beautiful lights after dark.

“SALA is just another excuse to enjoy a day out.”

Watercolour artwork by Danielle Fopp

From Henley South through to the Square and nearby, businesses and eateries have welcomed a collection of artworks for SALA. There’s a stretch along Henley Beach Road well worth a visit – look for work in The Lab on Henley, Nitro’s Cut Shop, Henley Headquarters and Khichidi Indian Restaurant. A beach side stroll from there to the Square, and a little beyond, will take you to Joes Henley Beach, Little Shoo, Secrets by the Sea, Bottega Gelateria and 303 by the Sea.

Bottega Gelateria collaborated with artist Danielle Fopp to create an exhibition of Italian inspired watercolour paintings.

The family favourite gelato shop is known for its use of fresh seasonal fruits, South Australian-sourced ingredients, and long lines down the main street.

“This is the first year I have participated in the SALA Festival, and I absolutely loved the experience” says Danielle.

“For me, it was all about finding the right business, and both colour- and creativity-wise Bottega was the perfect fit. They gave me full creative licence.”

For the next three weeks, Danielle’s four custom paintings will keep customers warm whilst they consume their delicious treats.

“Whilst it is a brief period, it is wonderful to have the opportunity to share the stage with a wide range of artists, both emerging and experienced,” Danielle says.

Locals and visitors can experience SALA by the Sea until the end of August. Opening times vary according to the venue.

To find more Henley Beach venues that are participating in the SALA Festival, visit the website.