Head Of Bight

Perched on the edge of the Great Australian Bight, Head of Bight is one of the country’s most dramatic whale-watching sites. From June to October, the towering limestone cliffs become a front-row seat to the annual southern right whale migration, where mothers calve and nurse their young in the sheltered waters below. It’s raw, windswept, and utterly unforgettable — a place where the sheer scale of the ocean meets the ancient Nullarbor.

Highlights & What to See

• Whale watching platform: A purpose-built boardwalk extends right to the cliff edge, offering spectacular, unimpeded views of southern right whales breaching and playing just metres from the shore.
• The Bunda Cliffs: These dramatic, ochre-streaked cliffs stretch for hundreds of kilometres; the viewing area at Head of Bight is the most accessible and photogenic section.
• Interpretive centre: A small but informative centre provides context on whale biology, the Nullarbor’s geology, and the region’s Indigenous heritage.
• Photo opportunities at sunrise and sunset: The low-angle light paints the cliffs and ocean in fiery hues — bring a zoom lens for whale shots.
• Nullarbor Roadhouse: The nearest pit stop for fuel and supplies, about 30 km east, with a quirky outback vibe.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours at the boardwalk, lingering as whales appear. If you’re travelling the Eyre Highway, a stop of 90 minutes is enough to take in the views, visit the interpretive centre, and wait for a whale sighting. Combine with a drive along the Nullarbor — the journey itself is part of the experience. For photographers, plan to arrive an hour before sunset and stay until dusk.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nullarbor Plain: The vast, treeless plain offers a surreal driving experience and the chance to spot wombats and eagles.
• Ceduna: The last major town before the Nullarbor crossing, with good seafood (oysters!) and Aboriginal art galleries.
• Murrawijinie Caves: Limestone caves and rock holes just off the highway, perfect for a short walk and a picnic.
• Eucla: A historic telegraph station and old jetty on the WA border, with a fascinating museum.
• Yalata: An Indigenous community with a roadhouse and access to the beach; cultural tours can be arranged in advance.

Please check official sources for current details.