Eyre Peninsula
The triangular Eyre Peninsula contains an otherworldly landscape of desert plains and rugged mountains bordered by pristine ocean. Dive into the Eyre Peninsula’s magnificent waters and follow the coastline to reach secluded coves and secret beaches. With its natural wonders and mesmerizing scenery, the Eyre Peninsula rewards those who pause to take a closer look. Delve into the desert wilderness and surround yourself with South Australia’s rich red soil or explore the peninsula with knife and fork to savor its unbeatable seafood.
Port Lincoln is the southerly city on the peninsula that marks the point where the Spencer Gulf and the Great Australian Bight join at the peninsula’s tip. Encounter the peninsula’s rich marine life on a diving tour with great white sharks and sea lions. If swimming with sea life doesn’t appeal, you can meet oysters, southern blue fin tuna and kingfish on your plate instead. Check out the rolling dunes and coastal scenery of Coffin Bay National Park. To the northeast, explore the protected waters offshore from Whyalla and swim with dolphins and giant cuttlefish.
Heading inland, you’ll reach the Gawler Ranges and the captivating geological formations of ancient volcanic plains. Visit one of the gateway towns to this expansive landscape and set out on a tour in a four-wheel drive. Continuing west, make your way to the rugged fringe of the Southern Ocean. Visit towering cliffs and roaring surf beaches or visit the cozy country town of Elliston. Travel the coast road from Baird Bay to Streaky Bay and check out beaches where you can swim with playful wild dolphins.
The far west of the Eyre Peninsula opens up into the staggeringly beautiful Nullarbor Plain, which is fringed to the south by vast stretches of beach. Taste delicious local oysters in Ceduna and look out to sea to spot southern right whales as they breach the nursery waters of the Great Australian Bight.
Whyalla is approximately 4 hours north of Adelaide. Port Lincoln is a 7-hour drive or a 1-hour flight from the state’s capital city. With its exquisite natural scenery, the Eyre Peninsula is ideal for road trips and secluded coastal getaways.