Limestone Coast

The Limestone Coast, a rugged and remote stretch along the southern edge of Australia’s Red Centre, is a land of ancient geology and stark beauty. Here, the desert meets the sea in dramatic cliffs, limestone caves, and vast salt pans. This is a place for self-drive adventurers seeking solitude, where the silence is broken only by the wind and the crash of waves against the Bunda Cliffs. The area is rich in indigenous history and offers a raw, unpolished experience of the Australian outback meeting the Southern Ocean.

Highlights & What to See

• Bunda Cliffs – Stretching for over 200 km, these sheer limestone cliffs drop dramatically into the Great Australian Bight. Stop at the lookouts along the Eyre Highway for breathtaking, endless ocean views.
• Head of the Bight – A key whale-watching spot (June–October), where southern right whales come to calve. The boardwalks offer excellent vantage points and interpretive signs.
• Murrawijinie Caves – A network of limestone caves just north of the Nullarbor Roadhouse. Explore the main cave with its impressive formations and ancient Aboriginal rock art.
• Koonalda Cave – A historically significant site where early Aboriginal mining of flint occurred over 20,000 years ago. Access is limited, but the story is told at the Nullarbor Roadhouse.
• Eucla Pass & Old Telegraph Station – Just over the WA border, the ruins of the old telegraph station and the shifting sand dunes create a hauntingly beautiful landscape.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers pass through the Limestone Coast as part of the Nullarbor crossing, but to truly appreciate its scale and solitude, allow at least half a day for stops and short walks. If you’re keen on whale watching or cave exploration, consider an overnight stay at the Nullarbor Roadhouse or a nearby campground. The drive from Ceduna to Eucla takes about 4–5 hours without stops, so plan to break the journey with a picnic at the Head of the Bight.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ceduna – The gateway to the Nullarbor, with a great seafood scene (especially oysters) and the Ceduna Aboriginal Arts Centre.
• Nullarbor Plain – The vast, treeless plain itself is an experience; drive the Eyre Highway and stop at the iconic Nullarbor Roadhouse.
• Eucla – A tiny settlement on the WA border with a museum and the eerie Eucla Pass sand dunes.
• Great Australian Bight Marine Park – Extends along the coast, protecting the dramatic cliffs and marine life; ideal for whale watching and coastal walks.
• Yalata – An Indigenous community that offers cultural tours and insights into the region's traditional owners.

Please check official sources for current details.