Head of the Bight

Perched on the edge of the Great Australian Bight, Head of the Bight is one of Australia's most dramatic whale-watching and coastal scenery destinations. Located in South Australia's Far West, this remote cliff-top platform offers uninterrupted views of the Southern Ocean and the chance to witness southern right whales up close during their annual migration (June to October). The journey here is an adventure in itself, traversing the vast Nullarbor Plain, and the reward is a raw, windswept encounter with nature at its most powerful.

Highlights & What to See

• Whale Watching Platform: From June to October, the purpose-built boardwalk and viewing platform provide front-row seats to southern right whales calving and playing in the sheltered waters below. Bring binoculars for an even closer look.
• Coastal Cliffs: The dramatic Bunda Cliffs stretch for hundreds of kilometres, plunging vertically into the ocean. The viewing area offers a dizzying perspective of this immense escarpment.
• Interpretive Centre: A small but informative centre run by the Yalata community explains the region's Aboriginal heritage, the history of the Nullarbor, and the whale migration patterns.
• Nullarbor Plain Crossing: The drive to Head of the Bight across the Nullarbor is an iconic Australian road trip. Keep an eye out for wedge-tailed eagles, camels, and the occasional wombat.
• Stargazing: With virtually no light pollution, the night sky here is breathtaking. On a clear night, the Milky Way stretches from horizon to horizon.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours at the Head of the Bight viewing platform, which is enough time to soak in the scenery and watch for whales. If you're driving the Nullarbor, plan a stop here as part of a longer day's journey. For a more immersive experience, consider staying overnight at the adjacent caravan park or camping area to enjoy sunset and sunrise over the Bight. The site is open daily from 8am to 5pm during whale season (June to October) and by appointment outside this period.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ceduna: The last major town before the Nullarbor, about 3 hours east, offering supplies, accommodation, and the Ceduna Arts and Cultural Centre.
• Nullarbor Roadhouse: A classic outback stop with fuel, meals, and quirky memorabilia, located about 20 minutes west of Head of the Bight.
• Murrawijinie Caves: Limestone caves just off the Eyre Highway near the Nullarbor Roadhouse, featuring Aboriginal rock art and unique formations.
• Yalata: An Aboriginal community south of the highway that offers cultural tours and insights into local Anangu life.
• Great Australian Bight Marine Park: The protected waters surrounding the headland are part of a larger marine park, perfect for spotting sea lions and dolphins.
• Eucla: The first settlement in Western Australia after crossing the border, with historic ruins and the Eucla Telegraph Station.

Please check official sources for current details.