The search for a man missing at Coffin Bay in South Australia has ended in tragedy, with police confirming a body has been recovered.

At about 12.30pm on Tuesday, the body of a 56‑year‑old man from Western Australia was located on the beach at Kellidie Bay.

Emergency crews had launched a major operation after reports the man fell from the town jetty just before 1am.

Local police, Water Operations officers, search and rescue teams and PolAir scoured the area throughout the morning.

Authorities had appealed for witnesses as the desperate search unfolded.

The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.

Police will prepare a report for the coroner.