Great Australian Bight Marine Park

Stretching along the dramatic southern coastline, the Great Australian Bight Marine Park is a vast, wild expanse where the Nullarbor Plain meets the Southern Ocean. This is one of Australia's most remote and spectacular marine environments, renowned for its towering limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and exceptional whale-watching. The park protects a crucial breeding ground for the southern right whale, and its nutrient-rich waters teem with marine life, from Australian sea lions to great white sharks. For travellers seeking raw, untamed nature and a sense of true isolation, this park delivers an unforgettable experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Whale-watching at the Head of Bight – From June to October, southern right whales congregate close to shore, offering world-class viewing from purpose-built boardwalks and platforms.
• The Bunda Cliffs – These dramatic, sheer cliffs stretch for nearly 200 km, providing breathtaking viewpoints over the Southern Ocean. Stop at the official lookouts along the Eyre Highway.
• Murphy's Haystacks – Inland from the park, these ancient, wind-sculpted granite boulders are a quirky geological wonder worth a short detour.
• Sea lion and dolphin spotting – The park's beaches and waters are home to playful Australian sea lions and bottlenose dolphins; keep your camera ready.
• Stargazing – With minimal light pollution, the park offers some of the darkest skies in Australia – perfect for a night under the Milky Way.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day exploring the park, focusing on the Head of Bight boardwalk and the Bunda Cliffs viewpoints. If you're self-driving the Nullarbor, plan for at least a half-day stop to soak in the coastal scenery and watch for whales. For a deeper experience, consider camping overnight at one of the designated coastal campsites to enjoy sunrise over the bight and an evening of stargazing. The park is best visited between May and October when the weather is milder and whales are present.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ceduna – The nearest town to the east, offering supplies, accommodation, and the Ceduna Aboriginal Arts and Culture Centre.
• Nullarbor National Park – Adjacent to the marine park, this arid landscape features caves, sinkholes, and the iconic Nullarbor Roadhouse.
• Yalata – An Indigenous community with cultural tours that provide insight into the area's Aboriginal heritage.
• Fowlers Bay – A serene coastal hamlet with excellent fishing, sand dunes, and a historic jetty.
• Eyre Peninsula – Further east, this region offers swimming with sea lions, shark cage diving, and fresh seafood in towns like Port Lincoln.

Please check official sources for current details.