Photo: Nachoman-au / CC BY-SA 3.0
The Great Australian Bight is a vast, rugged coastline where the Nullarbor Plain meets the Southern Ocean, offering dramatic cliffs, whale watching, and a sense of true isolation. This is one of Australia's most epic road trip stops, perfect for those seeking raw nature and big skies.
Highlights & What to See
- Bunda Cliffs: Stretching for nearly 200 km, these sheer limestone cliffs plunge into the ocean – stop at the official lookout for jaw-dropping views.
- Head of the Bight (Yalata): The prime spot for southern right whale watching (June–October), with a boardwalk overlooking the calving grounds.
- Nullarbor National Park: Explore the vast limestone karst landscape, including the Murrawijinie Caves and their ancient Aboriginal rock art.
- Eyre Bird Observatory: A restored telegraph station turned bird sanctuary, offering accommodation and guided walks in the remote scrub.
- Ceduna: The gateway town with the Ceduna Aboriginal Arts Centre, fresh seafood, and the start of the Nullarbor crossing.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most travellers experience the Bight as part of the Eyre Highway crossing between Ceduna and Norseman. Allow at least a full day to drive between the key viewpoints and stops, with an overnight stay at the Nullarbor Roadhouse or in Ceduna. If you plan to whale watch, budget an extra half-day at Head of the Bight. For a deeper exploration, two to three days lets you hike in the national park and visit the bird observatory.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Ceduna: The last major town before the Nullarbor, with supplies and cultural experiences.
- Streaky Bay: A charming fishing town with turquoise waters, seal colonies, and the Murphy's Haystacks rock formations.
- Fowlers Bay: A quiet coastal hamlet known for sand dunes, whale watching, and stargazing.
- Nullarbor Roadhouse: The iconic pit stop for fuel and a cold beer, surrounded by endless plains.
- Eucla: The westernmost settlement in SA, with a historic telegraph station and the dramatic Eucla Pass.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.