Ceduna

Perched on the edge of the Great Australian Bight, Ceduna is the gateway to the Nullarbor and a surprising little gem on South Australia’s west coast. This laid-back coastal town is all about big skies, fresh seafood (particularly oysters), and a palpable sense of remoteness. For travellers on the Eyre Highway, it’s a welcome pit stop – but those who linger will discover quiet beaches, Aboriginal cultural sites, and a genuine outback-meets-ocean vibe.

Highlights & What to See

• Oyster farming tours – Ceduna is famous for its plump, briny oysters. Join a tour at the Ceduna Oyster Farm to see how they’re grown and taste them straight from the water.
• Murphy’s Haystacks – A short drive east, these ancient, wind-sculpted pink granite boulders are a surreal sight, especially at sunset when they glow.
• Ceduna Aboriginal Arts & Culture Centre – Browse authentic Aboriginal artwork and learn about the local Wirangu and Kokatha peoples’ connection to the land.
• The Jetty and Foreshore – Stroll the long jetty, fish for squid, or simply watch the pelicans. The foreshore has picnic spots and a playground.
• Goog’s Lookout – A short walk up to this hilltop offers panoramic views over the town, the bay, and the vast Nullarbor Plain.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers pass through Ceduna in a day, but it rewards an overnight stay. Arrive in the afternoon, take an oyster tour, watch sunset from Goog’s Lookout, and enjoy a seafood dinner. The next morning, stock up for the Nullarbor crossing or explore the nearby beaches before moving on. If you’re into fishing or birdwatching, two nights give you time to relax and explore the quieter coves.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nullarbor Plain – The epic, treeless expanse begins just west of Ceduna. Plan for a full day’s drive to the Western Australia border, with stops at the Head of Bight (whale watching in winter) and the Bunda Cliffs.
• Streaky Bay – About 90 minutes east, this charming fishing town has stunning beaches, a seal colony, and the iconic Baird Bay ocean eco-tours.
• Port Lincoln – Three hours south-east, it’s the seafood capital of Australia and a launch point for swimming with sea lions and great white sharks.
• Lake Gairdner – For a detour inland, this vast salt lake offers a blinding white expanse and a sense of utter isolation – best visited with a 4WD.
• Yalata Indigenous Protected Area – Just west of Ceduna, this area offers guided cultural tours and a chance to see the remote coastal dunes.

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