West Coast, Eyre Peninsula

300 sq.km.On a spur of land reaching out into the Great Australian Bight on the southwestern coast of the Eyre Peninsula is Coffin Bay National Park, a region of granite and limestone crags, with heavy surf thundering against jagged cliffs, heathland with a sparse growth of vegetation and traveling dunes, and sheltered sandy bays for sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts.

The little town of Ceduna (pop. 3000) is the last settlement of any size before the crossing of the inhospitable Nullarbor Plain in Western Australia. The port at Thevenard, 3km east, ships grain, gypsum and salt and is the base of a fishing fleet. Its situation in Denial Bay, with its sheltered beaches and offshore islands, makes it an ideal place for a beach holiday.

2300 sq.kmThis vast monotonous plain with no trees (as its name indicates, from Latin nullus arbor) is covered only with low-growing salt scrub. It is only after abundant winter rains that multi-colored flowers and many varieties of grass bring a touch of life to the landscape. Rough tracks lead to the imposing cliffs that fringe it on the south.

In Waterloo Bay on the west coast of the peninsula is the popular holiday resort of Elliston (hotels, motels, holiday apartments, caravan/camping parks), with safe bathing beaches and beautiful wild coastal scenery. There are fine views from Mount Wedge (250m).

Flinders Island is in the Great Australian Bight and is good for diving and water sports.

The little resort and fishing port of Streaky Bay (pop. 1000) has good sandy bays, little inlets and high cliffs. In the hinterland is wheat-growing country. There is an interesting local museum in the former schoolhouse. Along the beautiful coasts nearby can be seen many pelicans.

Point Labatt is a nature reserve with a large colony of sea lions.