Ceduna

Ceduna sits on the far west coast of South Australia, where the Great Australian Bight meets the vast Nullarbor Plain. This friendly outpost is the last major town before the Nullarbor crossing and a natural stop on any epic self-drive adventure. Its name comes from the Aboriginal word ‘Chedoona’, meaning ‘a place to sit down and rest’ — and that’s exactly what travellers do, soaking up the coastal vibe, fresh seafood, and big skies.

Highlights & What to See

• Ceduna Jetty — Stroll out over the turquoise water; it’s a prime spot for fishing, crabbing, or just watching the sunset turn the ocean gold.
• Murphy’s Haystacks — A short drive east, these ancient, wind-sculpted granite boulders rise from a wheat field like petrified giants. A must-photo stop.
• Great Australian Bight Marine Park — Head west to the Bunda Cliffs for heart-stopping views where the Nullarbor meets the sea. Between May and October, southern right whales calve in the park’s protected waters.
• Oyster Farm Tours — Ceduna is famous for its Pacific oysters. Join a tour to taste them straight from the pristine waters of the bay.
• Goog’s Lookout — A short walk to a panoramic view over the town, the jetty, and the sweeping arc of Murat Bay.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers use Ceduna as an overnight stop between Adelaide and the Nullarbor, but it deserves at least a full day. Arrive early afternoon to explore the jetty and grab an oyster lunch, then visit Murphy’s Haystacks before dusk. If you’re whale-watching, plan a second day — the Bunda Cliffs viewpoint is a 90-minute drive west, and you’ll want time to linger.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nullarbor Plain — The iconic crossing: endless straight road, road trains, and the dramatic Bunda Cliffs. Ceduna is the perfect launch point.
• Streaky Bay — An hour east, this fishing town offers beautiful beaches, the Baird Bay dolphin experience, and the sculpted rocks at Murphy’s Haystacks en route.
• Penong — 30 minutes west, famous for its ‘Windmill Museum’ and the start of the Nullarbor Links golf course, the world’s longest.
• Yalata — An Aboriginal community on the edge of the Nullarbor; check out the roadside art and the Head of Bight visitor centre for whale-watching.

Please check official sources for current details.