Photo: Ghoongta / CC BY-SA 3.0
Port Lincoln, a coastal gem on the Eyre Peninsula, is a destination where the Southern Ocean meets rugged cliffs and pristine beaches. Known as the 'Seafood Capital of Australia,' this lively port town is a gateway to marine adventures, fresh oysters, and spectacular coastal scenery. With a relaxed vibe and abundant wildlife, it's a must-stop for travellers exploring South Australia's west coast.
Highlights & What to See
- Boston Bay – One of the largest natural harbours in the world, perfect for sailing, fishing, or simply strolling the foreshore.
- Swimming with Sea Lions and Tuna – Take a tour from Port Lincoln to swim with playful Australian sea lions or giant southern bluefin tuna at the Baird Bay or other local operators.
- Port Lincoln National Park – Dramatic granite cliffs, secluded coves, and walking trails with panoramic ocean views; keep an eye out for kangaroos and emus.
- Lincoln National Park – Just south of town, this park offers stunning coastal scenery, camping, and the famous Memory Cove Wilderness Protection Area.
- Seafood Trail – Sample local oysters, King George whiting, and more at the marina, the fresh fish market, or acclaimed restaurants like Del Giorno's Café.
- Mikkira Station – A historic sheep station where wild koalas roam among the eucalypts – a unique inland wildlife experience.
Suggested Time to Spend
Allocate at least two full days to experience the highlights – one day for a marine tour (swimming with sea lions or tuna) and another to explore the national parks and seafood scene. If you have three days, add a day for fishing charters or a scenic drive to Coffin Bay National Park. The town itself is compact and walkable, so you can easily fit in a meal at the marina and a sunset walk along the foreshore.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Coffin Bay – 40 minutes west, famous for its national park, pristine beaches, and world-class oyster farms.
- Streaky Bay – About two hours west, offering spectacular coastal cliffs, the Baird Bay sea lion tours, and great fishing.
- Flinders Ranges – A four-hour drive north, this ancient mountain range provides dramatic outback landscapes and wildlife.
- Kangaroo Island – Accessible via a ferry from Adelaide or a longer drive, but well worth combining for wildlife and wilderness.
- Whyalla – Two hours north-east on the Spencer Gulf, known for its giant cuttlefish aggregation and steelworks history.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
Explore more
Image credits
- Coffin Bay — Jack Stradling / CC BY 3.0
- Streaky Bay — Bahnfrend / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Flinders Ranges — Matthew Summerton / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Kangaroo Island — Bernard Gagnon / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Whyalla — Bahnfrend / CC BY-SA 4.0