Photo: Admella1859 ( talk ) / Public domain
The Limestone Coast is a wild, windswept stretch of southern Australia that feels a world away from the tourist trail. This is a land of dramatic sea cliffs, ancient caves, and untamed beaches where the Southern Ocean throws its weight against the limestone. It's a place for those who love raw nature, solitude, and the thrill of discovering something unexpected.
Highlights & What to See
- Great Australian Bight Marine Park – Stand atop the towering Bunda Cliffs, where the sheer drop to the ocean is breathtaking. In season (May–October), you can spot southern right whales calving just offshore.
- Murrawijinie Caves – Explore these limestone caves that once sheltered Indigenous peoples. The guided tours reveal stunning stalactites and a deep sense of history.
- Koonalda Cave – This is a sacred Aboriginal site and one of the oldest known mining sites in the world, where ochre was extracted for thousands of years. It's not open to the public, but the entrance is visible.
- Head of Bight – The best place for whale watching, with a dedicated viewing platform that offers unparalleled views of the Bight's dramatic coastline.
- Nullarbor Roadhouse – An iconic pit stop on the Eyre Highway, offering a quirky mix of souvenirs, fuel, and a cold beer after a long drive.
Suggested Time to Spend
Give yourself at least two full days to appreciate the Limestone Coast's vastness. Start early at the Head of Bight for whale watching, then drive westward, stopping at the Murrawijinie Caves and the Bunda Cliffs lookout. Spend a night at the Nullarbor Roadhouse or a nearby free camp to watch the sunset over the Bight. The next day, continue exploring the caves and coastal viewpoints before heading inland.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Ceduna – The gateway to the Nullarbor, with a great seafood scene and Aboriginal art galleries.
- Yalata – An Indigenous community that offers cultural tours and insights into the region's heritage.
- Fowlers Bay – A sleepy coastal town perfect for fishing, sandboarding on the dunes, and spotting dolphins.
- Cook – A ghost town on the Trans-Australian Railway, worth a detour for its eerie, deserted railway station.
- Eucla – Just over the border in Western Australia, with its historic telegraph station and the iconic 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.