Coffin Bay National Park

On the southern tip of the Eyre Peninsula, Coffin Bay National Park is a wild, windswept landscape of towering limestone cliffs, pristine white beaches, and turquoise waters. This is South Australia's best-kept secret for those who crave solitude and raw coastal beauty. The park is a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, emus, and a dazzling array of birdlife, while the ocean teems with marine life including dolphins and sea lions. It's a place where the road ends and adventure begins — perfect for self-drive explorers seeking an off-the-beaten-path escape.

Highlights & What to See

• Yangie Bay Lookout: A short walk leads to a panoramic view over the bay's oyster farms and the national park's rugged coastline — a photographer's dream at sunset.
• Almonta Beach: This remote, unpatrolled beach is ideal for a long, solitary stroll. Keep an eye out for sea eagles soaring overhead.
• Point Avoid & MacLaren Point: Drive to the end of the peninsula to witness dramatic limestone cliffs plunging into the Southern Ocean. The rough 4WD track is an adventure in itself.
• Golden Island Walk: A 7.2 km return trail that takes you through mallee scrub and along cliffs with breathtaking ocean views. Spot kangaroos and emus along the way.
• Wildlife Spotting: The park is a sanctuary for western grey kangaroos, emus, and the rare western pygmy possum. Dawn and dusk are the best times for sightings.
• Oyster Farm Tours: Just outside the park, Coffin Bay is famous for its plump, briny oysters. Take a tour or buy fresh oysters straight from the farmers.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least a full day to explore the park's highlights. Start early to drive the 4WD tracks (a high-clearance vehicle is recommended) and tackle the walking trails before the afternoon sea breeze picks up. If you have a campervan, consider staying overnight at the Coffin Bay Caravan Park or one of the basic campsites within the park — the starry skies are phenomenal. For a more relaxed pace, spend two days: one for coastal walks and wildlife, another for kayaking in the sheltered bays or an oyster-tasting lunch in town.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Lincoln: A 45-minute drive west, this coastal city is the seafood capital of Australia. Visit the Lincoln National Park for more stunning coastal scenery.
• Coffin Bay Township: Just a 10-minute drive from the park entrance, this charming fishing village offers accommodation, supplies, and world-class oyster restaurants.
• Kellidie Bay Conservation Park: Adjacent to Coffin Bay, this park is great for birdwatching and kayaking in calm waters.
• Mount Dutton Bay: About 30 minutes north, this historic area features a restored woolshed and a jetty perfect for fishing.

Please check official sources for current details.