The Eyre Peninsula – where the outback meets the sea, with adventure all the way to the Great Australian Bight
We often hear that the folks on the Eyre Peninsula are a good sort. It’s probably got something to do with the fact that they’re surrounded by some of the most unbelievably stunning landscapes on the planet!
From friendly farming communities with a super strong sense of pride, to the pristine coastline, abundant wildlife and huge tourism offering, it’s definitely time to lock in a trip to experience the best of the west.
Here’s some of our top picks amongst the endless opportunities on the Eyre Peninsula
Take a walk on the wild side at Arno Bay
A nature lover’s paradise, Arno Bay’s Estuary Interpretive Boardwalk offers more than meets the eye! To truly experience this hidden gem and explore the stunning beauty of these wetlands, take a tour with local marine biologist Carmen Hampel, and discover some incredible wildlife along the way.
Passionate about this special slice of paradise, Carmen will show you just how fascinating the ecosystem is. Even born and bred locals have been blown away by what they’ve learned on her tours, thinking it was all mangroves and mud!
The 1.2km award-winning boardwalk, made out of recycled plastics, is accessible to all ages and fitness levels. Meander through mangroves, mudflats, and samphire and soak in the gorgeous views of the coastline as well as some newfound knowledge.
Whether you’re a birdwatcher or marine life lover, Carmen’s tour will leave you with a new appreciation for this unique ecosystem.
Tours are for groups of more than four people and run for approximately one and a half hours. So grab your friends, family, school or community group and give Carmen a call on 0427 280 071 to book your Arno Marine Tour.
Get up close with Koalas at Mikkira Station
Witnessing Australia’s cutest tree-dwelling marsupials in the wild is not something even every-day Aussies get a chance to do. But at Mikkira Station, 25 kilometres south of Port Lincoln, there’s a happy colony of koalas living their best lives, and you can call in check them out!
Helen, whose family have owned Mikkira for over a century, can guide you through the amazing ancient rare manna gum trees on a koala spotting adventure, where you can walk right up (sometimes face to face) to the koalas.
In the cooler months, from April until October, you can camp overnight on the property’s huge family-friendly campground, complete with toilets and hot showers, as well as canvas campers for hire, or you can visit for the day and have a bbq in the shelter shed or a campfire cook up.
During the warmer months, Helen runs guided visits late in the afternoon, and suggests visitors pack a picnic and enjoy sunset overlooking the vast bushland, taking in the variety of bird species and often getting a glimpse of the kangaroos and emus coming in for a late drink from the waterhole.
If you don’t have your own transport, several local tour operators can get you there, just reach out to the crew at Port Lincoln Visitor Information Centre.
To check out Mikkira and book your koala gazing adventure, click here.
Port Lincoln Visitor Centre – the one stop shop for EP tourism and adventure
When you’re visiting Australia’s seafood capital – a stop off at Port Lincoln Visitor Information Centre for some expert tips is a must. There’s a never-ending line-up of things to do and see, and this group of passionate locals will steer you in all the right directions. If it’s adventure you’re after, they’ll hook you up with Australia’s number one shark cage diving experience, where you can come face to face with Great Whites (safely!), or you can opt for an unforgettable frolic in the ocean with a colony of playful sea lions. But if you’re more of an adventure-seeking land-lover – a personalised 4×4 tour, taking in the rugged coastline could be just the thing for you.
Whether you’re visiting the centre in person or online, this is the place to grab your permit to Whalers Way, where you can explore a wonderland of cliffs, blowholes, crevasses, caves and golden beaches on the tip of the Southern Eyre Peninsula, 32 km from Port Lincoln.
There’s also loads of things to see and do in the stunning coastal city overlooking Boston Bay. Port Lincoln itself offers an abundance of activities, from heritage walks, museums, galleries and art installations, to playgrounds, wineries, restaurants and some quality regional shopping opportunities!
Check out the award-winning Port Lincoln Visitor Information Centre online, or pop in and see the experts at the Civic Centre, 60 Tasman Terrace Port Lincoln.
Country hospitality welcomes you at Kimba – the town with the Big Galah
Kimba is a small farming community with a big reputation and plenty of reasons to call in and explore. Sitting half way across Australia, smack bang in the middle of Sydney and Perth (as the crow flys), you can capture the moment with a selfie at the legendary “Halfway Across Australia” sign. While you’re at it, you’ll want to get an obligatory snap of the famous Big Galah, and then take some time to explore Kimba – a country town full of surprises.
As the sun sets, an incredible display of silo art lights up, with Trip Advisors hailing it a “not to be missed experience”, especially if you’re perched atop White Knob Lookout where you can soak-in panaromic views and some unique rustic sculptures of early settlers. Roora Nature Trails offers a six-kilometre trek though untouched native bushland, you can discover the hidden gems of Lake Gilles, Secret Rocks and the ancient Gawler Ranges, where the landscape is like another world.
If you’re travelling with the kids, Kimba’s huge all-inclusive playground, complete with a jumping pillow and plenty of shade is the perfect place to stop and stretch the legs. And the amazing colaborative creative quarters, Workshop 26, will blow you away, with a group of local artisans opening up boutique shipping container stores inside the town’s old tractor shop.
To get the full rundown on everything Kimba has to offer, be sure to look up Kimba Visitor Information Centre.
Dive into Coffin Bay’s ultimate dolphin adventure
The pristine waters of Coffin Bay are home to the largest group of Burrunan dolphins in the world, and Kalo and Emma Sunset can’t wait to introduce you to them!
These passionate ocean lovers offer bespoke tours, with their popular Dolphin Swim Tour being an unmissable adventure on the Eyre Peninsula.
From the moment you step aboard their luxury catamaran, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of Coffin Bay’s coastline and the magic of its marine life. Kalo and Emma’s love for this place shines through as you sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience.
Whether you’re gliding on the front net for an up-close dolphin encounter or enjoying a deckside view, this adventure is for all ages. Every detail is taken care of, from wetsuits to a delicious lunch, ensuring you feel right at home in this slice of EP paradise.
For more information and to book your tour with Sunset Charters, click here
Jump Ship to great beer at Port Lincoln
A century ago, the great-grandfather of Steve, co-owner of Jump Ship Brewing, leaped into a new life, leaving his ship in Port Lincoln’s Boston Bay for a fresh start. Inspired by that bold move, Steve and his wife Michelle, turned an old tile shop in the heart of Port Lincoln into a brewery that’s all about great beer and bringing people together.
Open Wednesday to Sunday from 12 noon, Jump Ship is a welcoming space for locals and the perfect spot for tourists to enjoy a coldie after a day of exploring this beautiful region. With bright, flexible areas accommodating 20-300 people, it’s also an ideal venue for everything from family gatherings to corporate events.
Their core range of beers are cleverly named, Wanna Pale Ale (a nod to the famous 4WD track just out of town), Fish and Ships, and Pearlah Session Ale celebrate the local landscape and culture, each with a story in every sip. Add a menu featuring tasty tapas, tacos, or lighter bites and it’s easy to see why people keep coming back.
Jump Ship Brewing’s mission is simple – to brew quality beers that reflect their love for the Eyre Peninsula and to provide a space for the community and visitors to gather, celebrate, and share. Cheers to that!
To stay up to date with what’s on offer at Jump Ship Brewing, click here.
Distill and Chill at Port Lincoln’s Hottest Hangout
Port Lincoln might be famous for its stunning National Parks and shark cage diving, but West Coast Distilling Co. is shaking things up, becoming the town’s go-to spot for cocktail lovers.
Right in the heart of Port Lincoln, this old fire station has been transformed into the hottest hangout, serving up handcrafted spirits in a relaxed and chilled-out atmosphere.
Run by husband-and-wife duo Justin and Sally Braakhuis, these passionate distillers have crafted a line-up of seven delicious drops, from their signature First Wave Gin to Barrel Aged Negroni and even a cheeky Coffee Liqueur.
You can pair your drinks with dumplings, or feast from their brand-new food truck dishing out loaded nachos, tacos, and fries.
The outdoor cocktail garden is dog and kid-friendly, so pack your pooch and bring the kids too! Plus, the indoor space seats 100+, making it perfect for their regular events like live music, trivia, and art nights.
Whether you’re there to “distill and chill” or grab a bottle to go, you won’t regret stopping by.
Open from Wednesday to Sunday, follow their socials here for opening times and event updates, and let journey beGIN.
Explore the Great Australian Bight from Coodlie Park Eco Farm Retreat
Add to the experience of exploring the natural wonders of the Eyre Peninsula with a stay at Coodlie Park Eco Farm Retreat, where you can unplug, stay and play with a range of affordable accommodation options.
A destination in itself, Coodlie Park offers off-grid bush camping, self-contained cottages, a group bungalow and elevated swag huts, set on 500 acres of bushland, offering relaxation and adventure, embracing sustainable tourism and good old-fashioned country hospitably.
Located in a magical location along the coast between Mt Camel Beach and the spectacular Talia Caves, Coodlie is a 25-minute drive to Lake Newland Conservation Park and a great base to explore the rugged coastal cliffs of the Great Australian Bight or swim with the Baird Bay sea lions.
Trip Advisors are almost always repeating guests, with rave reviews on the abundance of wildlife, funky bucket showers, and the private secluded beach access, perfect for stunning sunsets, spear fishing or just relaxing in the many natural rock pools.
With prices from as little as $25, and options to suit any size group, Coodlie Park Eco Farm Retreat is the perfect place to explore the Eyre Peninsula’s West Coast. For more info click here.
Enjoy an off-grid bush retreat at Tally-Ho Tiny Home
Tucked away among towering gum trees and native bushland, Tally-Ho Tiny Home is the ultimate off-grid getaway. Sitting between Port Lincoln and Coffin Bay at Hawson, it’s the perfect base to explore the Eyre Peninsula while getting a taste of nature.
Set on a scenic hobby farm, you’ll wake up to grazing horses in the nearby paddock, and have plenty of chances to spot native wildlife. As you sip your morning coffee at the beautifully crafted wooden breakfast bar, you might even get the chance to spot the local koalas hanging out nearby. Kangaroos, kookaburras, and blue wrens are regular visitors too.
Designed and built by Tiny Home enthusiasts Emma and Morgan Beaty, the tiny house they used to call home is eco-friendly and packed with rustic charm. Guests love the intricate wooden detail, the peace, privacy, and the chance to switch off while still being just a quick 10 minute drive from all that Port Lincoln has to offer.
As well as being conveniently located between National Parks, this little charmer sleeps up to four people, making it perfect for families, couples, solo adventurers, or anyone craving a secluded and unique Eyre Peninsula getaway. For more information about Tally Ho Tiny Home, click here.
Explore the Coast or enjoy the serenity at Pod[E] Mulla Mulla
Nothing screams serenity like a luxury off-grid eco-escape. Just 20 minutes from Streaky Bay, Pod[E] Mulla Mulla sits atop Mount Westall, with panoramic views of nearby Speeds Bay, the pristine Yanerbie Sandhills and Cape Blanche in the distance.
This little home away from home ticks all of the boxes in minimising its environmental footprint, without compromising on luxurious features throughout. The Pod comfortably sleeps four guests, with a main bedroom and studio room both complete with comfy queen-size beds. A fully-equipped kitchen boasts a coffee machine where you can indulge in a freshly roasted Boston Bean brew.
Set on 300 acres of private bushland, there’s a world of local flora and fauna to explore. You’ll have access to e-bikes and a recommended cycling adventure, as well as bodyboards and snorkelling gear for the explorers. Otherwise, sit back, relax and soak in the feeling of being in another world.
Check out Pod[E] and the added extras offered right here.
Prefer your own Private Island? Check out Rumi on Louth
If a luxury private island is more your style, the Eyre Peninsula offers the experience of a lifetime at Rumi on Louth.
The only one of its kind in South Australia, this Louth Island gem, just a 10-minute cruise off the coast of Port Lincoln, offers an eco paradise with five-star accommodation, an onsite restaurant dishing up fresh, locally sourced seafood, views to die for and plenty of exhilarating island activities at your fingertips.
Guests can enjoy a luxury catamaran cruise, explore the island on an e-bike or guided buggy tour, gaze at the breathtaking starry night sky from their own private beach, do a spot of fishing from a kayak, or indulge in a 6-course degustation experience.
Accommodation options include a luxury apartment stay, stunning ocean views from a five-star suite, or book a private group retreat with eight King single rooms, one Queen room, two bathrooms, and plenty of room to relax and unwind after a day of exploration.
With tailored packages from $600 a night, including return transfers from Port Lincoln and breakfast served daily, there’s no need to renew your passport, your luxury island getaway can be found right here in SA.
Jump on this link to find out more.
To read more greatness from the Eyre Peninsula, click here.
