What to do in Whyalla: outdoor activities and more

Whyalla is all about outdoor experiences and hot summer days. And there’s no wonder really; those bright turquoise waters could challenge the tranquil shores of Caribbean islands. Just over four hours from Adelaide, a trip to Whyalla sees you immersed in the best of Eyre Peninsula, without the long drive. In this article, we take a look at what to do in Whyalla. We’ll help you figure out the best spots to hang out, the most amazing experiences to enjoy and the most beautiful sites to see.

Whyalla and the Eyre Peninsula: sun, sea and serenity!

Boasting an impressive 300 days of sunshine each year, Whyalla emerges as an irresistible seaside haven, beckoning those in search of an idyllic escape from Adelaide. While it proudly holds the title of South Australia’s fourth largest city, Whyalla is not solely defined by its urban offerings. In fact, this blog post aims to highlight the abundant outdoor delights that await visitors.

While sun-drenched beach days and leisurely fishing adventures from the jetty remain beloved pastimes, this article unveils a treasure trove of immersive outdoor activities. Beyond its industrial reputation, Whyalla blossoms into a vibrant and captivating destination, teeming with surprises that captivate even the most seasoned travelers. Prepare to be enthralled by the wealth of experiences that await in this bright and beautiful coastal gem.

What to do in Whyalla

Read on to learn what to do in Whyalla and plan trip to remember!

Experience the magic of Giant Cuttlefish

Starting with the most exciting outdoor activity in Whyalla, between May and August, cuttlefish breeding season takes place on the coast. Whilst this might sound a little banal or unexciting, what happens here in Whyalla each year is actually “the largest aggregation of Giant Cuttlefish in the world”.

During these winter months, cuttlefish ignite with fantastic colours and perform strange rituals. Marine wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world come to see this sea-life light show every year, diving and snorkelling to get up close with the creatures. Head over to Eyre Peninsula and spend a couple of nights by the sea, snorkelling and capturing glimpses of the Giant Cuttlefish – it’s something you may not see anywhere else in the world.

Spot other marine life

Dolphins are also known to frequent the shores of Whyalla and are found at the shores each day. For many years, local dolphins have followed fishing boats from the sea and swam towards the coastline with boats in hope of grabbing scraps of fish from fishermen. Supposedly, some local dolphins have formed friendships with the people of Whyalla as a result of this phenomenon. Whilst this might not be the best known spot for dolphins in South Australia, dolphins here are known to come very close to shore, and so you might just find dolphin spotting here even more special than other famous spots.

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the sea here, and interested in gliding across the water on a kayak, Dolphin Treasure Hire is a good bet. Single and double kayaks as well as SUP boards for rent, will ensure that you get to experience the creature-rich sea here up close.

Take a walk in Whyalla Conservation Park

Located 10 kilometres from the Whyalla city centre, the Whyalla Conservation Park is a serene spot that caters nicely for walkers. A scenic walking trail which leads you to the top of Wild Dog Hill is perfect for capturing gorgeous views. Expect scenes of red earth and rocky wilderness as you gaze inland, and choose to come here at sunset to make the most of the experience. The full loop walk here will only take half an hour and the trail is perfectly marked, with information boards teaching walkers about various plants and wildlife along the way.

Of note, Wild Dog Hill plays a significant role in the traditions of local Aboriginal people who associated the surrounding environment with various Dreaming stories.

Take a trip to Point Lowly

A day trip to Point Lowly is a fantastic idea not only because it offers gorgeous shallow waters and secluded beaches, but because it has an interesting settler history. Completed in 1883, Port Lowly Lighthouse assisted with keeping an eye out for maritime traffic around Point Lowly. The lighthouse was manned for 90 years and the original lantern is still in place, with two lighthouse cottages nearby today known as being the oldest buildings in the entire Whyalla region.

Today, Point Lowly is a drop-dead gorgeous spot for photographers, swimmers and those looking for quiet beach days. Walkers will enjoy the Freycinet Trail here, which – depending on which way you follow it – begins or ends at Point Lowly. The 12 kilometres (one-way) trail takes hikers along the pretty coastline and uses informative signs to explain the Aboriginal and early settler history. At certain points, you’ll also learn a thing or two about local flora, fauna and marine life.

Take your car onto the beach

From Port Bonython Road onto Sida Cove and also at Point Lowly, 4WD vehicles are allowed onto the beaches. Head down in the morning and bring your fishing rod, a shelter from the sun and a picnic and spend the day absorbing the gorgeous views of the ocean. Some of the secluded beaches here will be all yours for the whole day. South of Whyalla, Murrippi Beach is another quiet beach, which allows nude bathing. All visitors are welcome to use this beach, but should note that the route definitely requires a 4WD vehicle.

Book your stay at Whyalla Playford Apartments

A Weekend Escape to Whyalla should certainly be on your radar this year, after all, we all need a change of scenery. Highly recommended Whyalla Playford Apartments offers all kinds of travellers – business, couples and families – a cosy and luxury option. Apartments here, available with either one or two bedrooms, are kitted out with clean, modern furnishings and wonderful facilities. A fully equipped kitchen, a flatscreen TV and a balcony put the Whyalla Playford Apartments a cut above the rest.

To check out the variety of apartments available at Whyalla Playford Apartments, click here.

To find out what to do in Whyalla, click here to read our Ultimate Guide to Whyalla, and plan the perfect SA Weekend Escape.