16 Epic Things to Do in Whyalla: Nature, Wildlife & Adventure
Welcome to Whyalla, a small industrial town known for its steelworks and iron ore mining. However, there is a lot more to this coastal spot than meets the eye. If you are searching for things to do in Whyalla, you will quickly discover it is full of surprises.
I lived here for four months, working as a dive guide during the Giant Australian Cuttlefish mating season: a world-renowned spectacle and the only place on Earth where this happens for this species. Watching thousands of cuttlefish gather and change colors beneath the water was unlike anything I have seen before.
Whyalla also makes the perfect base for exploring South Australia’s outdoors, with easy access to the Flinders Ranges, Mount Remarkable, Port Lincoln, and plenty of scenic hikes and experiences right outside town. From diving into the cuttlefish’s world to exploring mountain tops, Whyalla is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, and adventure.
Oh & as always, practice sustainable tourism while traveling, please :)
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16 Epic Things to Do in Whyalla, SA
A giant cuttlefish showing off its curling tentacles, one of the most mesmerizing things to see in Whyalla.
The Best Things to Do in Whyalla
#1: Cuttlefish (Snorkeling or Diving)
Two giant cuttlefish peacocking beneath the surface — one of the most incredible natural encounters you can experience in Whyalla.
One of the most epic, once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Whyalla is seeing the Giant Australian Cuttlefish during their mating season. I worked this past season as a dive and snorkel guide, and truly, this is a spectacular event you will never forget.
Envision cuttlefish, sometimes up to one meter long, sizing each other up to see who is the bigger male, fighting, pulling tentacles off, shoving one another, and more, all just to compete for one female in a group of seven males and secure their future generations.
The season runs from June through August, with the best time usually being mid-June through July, though it can vary slightly each year. The cuttlefish gather along the coast near Stony Point, often in just 2–4 meters of water, making it perfect for shallow diving or snorkeling. You can go with a guide (like me!) from WhyDive, or rent your own gear from the shop and explore on your own. Many people like to join a tour first and then head back out again by themselves. It helps them understand exactly what is happening underwater, so they know what they are looking at next time.
Don’t want to brave the cold (and I mean cold, 11–17°C) water? You can also hop on a Cutty’s Glass Bottom Boat Tour instead and watch all the action through the large glass panels at the bottom of the boat.
This event makes for a perfect trip for all ages, including children. Oh, and don’t forget your GoPro or underwater camera to capture the moment. Sometimes you might even be lucky enough to see one of the resident fur seals, eagle rays, or Port Jackson sharks. Early in the season, Southern Right Whales and Humpbacks can be seen swimming about in the water, too!
#2: Hummock Hill
Taking in the incredible blue hues from Hummock Hill, one of the best things to do in Whyalla for ocean views.
Want a view over Whyalla’s varying blue-hued waters and marina? Hummock Hill is the perfect spot to take in the coastal scenery around you, and an even better place to catch a sunset over the water. Located right in downtown Whyalla, you can drive straight up to Hummock Hill and wander around to explore the different vantage points overlooking the town. Best of all, it is completely free to visit.
#3: Wild Dog Hill
Walking up to Wild Dog Hill, one of my favorite things to do in Whyalla for sunset views and a dose of outback calm.
Watching the sunset from the top of Wild Dog Hill, easily one of the best things to do in Whyalla.
Looking for a quick hike around some orange-hued rocks? Wild Dog Hill, in the Whyalla Conservation Park, is one of my favorite hikes in the area. This easy 0.8-mile loop takes you up and around the rocky hill, offering views of the orange cliffs and surrounding bush. The path is clear and well-marked, though it is hard to get lost on this short trail since you are mostly wandering around the top. With all the rocks around, I recommend wearing sturdier shoes. If you plan to hike during the day, be sure to wear sun protection, as you are completely exposed to the sun.
According to local history, the name Wild Dog Hill may come from a story in which a medicine man threw dingoes off nearby rocks after they had killed a child.
Wild Dog Hill is just a 20-minute (17 km) drive from downtown Whyalla, though you will need to cross a sandy dirt road, so I would not recommend a low-clearance vehicle. There is plenty of parking at the base of the hill. Best of all, there is no entry fee, making this a perfect quick outdoor adventure in Whyalla.
#4: Mount Laura
Standing on top of Mount Laura after the short hike up. One of the best lookout spots in Whyalla for sunrise, golden hour, or sunset views.
Another easy hike, just 10 minutes (6 km) from downtown Whyalla, is Mount Laura. This trail is a 1.8-mile hike with a 413-foot elevation gain along a dirt path to the top. The hike usually takes around 20–30 minutes each way, making it ideal for all fitness levels. Once at the summit, you will be rewarded with endless views over Whyalla and its coastline. I have heard it is a great spot to catch the sunrise, though I could never get myself up that early!
The entrance can be a bit confusing, but honestly, you can pull over and park anywhere off the road, then follow the hiking path on AllTrails up to the top. The trail can be slippery and rocky in places, so sturdy shoes are essential.
This hike is completely free and a fun, easy thing to do in Whyalla.
#5: Point Lowly Lighthouse
Wandering along the rocky shore towards Point Lowly Lighthouse, one of the most scenic spots in Whyalla for ocean views and photos.
At the tip of Whyalla’s peninsula and close to the cuttlefish at Stony Point, you will stumble upon the Point Lowly Lighthouse. First lit in 1883, this historic lighthouse has a long history of guiding ships through tricky waters. Today, you can still stay in the old lighthouse keeper cottages!
Wander across the rocks along the shore, collect cuttlebones, or peer over the water to see if you can spot some dolphins swimming by. The Point Lowly Lighthouse in Whyalla is a great place to explore, work on your photography skills, and watch a dreamy sunset behind the lighthouse over the beautiful blue waters of Whyalla.
#6: Whyalla Jetty (Sunset)
The sun setting behind Whyalla Jetty, one of the most beautiful spots to catch golden hour in Whyalla.
One of my favorite places to watch the sunset in Whyalla is along the Whyalla Jetty. The pink, purple, and orange-colored sky falling over the aqua and deep-blue waters is a truly dreamy place to be. Sometimes, you might even spot dolphin pods chasing the fishing boats returning from the day.
The best way to enjoy it is to walk around Hummock Hill during golden hour, which sits just behind the jetty, and then continue down onto the jetty as the sun starts to set. Bring a camera, a light jacket if it is windy, and maybe even a blanket or snacks for the best sunset experience. This is one of the top things to do in Whyalla if you love nature, wildlife, and dreamy coastal views.
There is a parking lot right before the jetty.
#7: Whyalla Foreshore (Sunset)
A beautiful sunset over the Whyalla Foreshore, one of the best spots to relax and enjoy the views in Whyalla.
Prefer a beach sunset over a jetty sunset? Climb down from the Whyalla Jetty onto the Whyalla Foreshore, lay out a blanket, and watch the sun sink into the horizon. The Whyalla Foreshore is one of the best sandy beach spots in town, with shallow waters perfect for swimming and cooling off on a hot day.
You can often spot dolphins swimming by, or even try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding if you are feeling adventurous. The foreshore has grassy areas, shaded playgrounds, and picnic spots, plus free BBQs, toilets, and a cafe nearby for snacks. There is also a marina and boat ramp, and a walkway that connects to Ada Ryan Gardens, so there is plenty to explore.
#8: Port Lincoln Day Trip
A wild Koala in a tree near Port Lincoln.
How lucky to find a rainbow spread across Port Lincoln’s coastline!
Port Lincoln, just 267 KM (under 3 hours) from Whyalla, is a must-visit with so much to offer. This coastal town is home to the infamous Great White Shark Cage Diving, swimming with sea lions, wild koalas, and some pretty epic landscapes featuring sand dunes and aqua-blue coastlines. Here is my list of the best things to do on your day trip away from Whyalla:
Great White Cage Diving— Highly recommend the Rodney Fox expeditions.
Sea Lion Swimming— Calypso does sea lion snorkeling here.
Coastal Lookouts— I really loved Lone Pine Lookout (featured above).
Wild Koalas— Mikkira Station, or try to spot some around the Eucalyptus trees here. Give your eyes time to adjust and really look up and around in the trees. I nearly left until I realized I was seeing them; they were just tucked into the tree branches, camouflaged.
Other Local Things To Do
A view of the HMAS Whyalla at the Maritime Museum in Whyalla.
#9: Whyalla Maritime Museum
Looking to dive into Whyalla's maritime history? The Whyalla Maritime Museum is home to the HMAS Whyalla, the first ship built in the Whyalla Shipyards in 1941. The ship now stands out of the water and offers a unique experience of actually walking under the ship before exploring inside with your tour guide.
Hours: daily, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with guided ship tours at 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM. Closed-toe footwear is required for the ship tours.
Entrance Fees: 17 AUD for adults, 14 AUD for concession, and free for children in school.
Tour Duration: 30 minutes
#10: Whyalla Wetlands
If you are looking for a walking or running path, Whyalla Wetlands is a perfect spot! A long pedestrian loop winds around the wetlands, making it ideal for a relaxing stroll or a quick jog. The wetlands are home to many birds and wildlife, and you might even spot species you do not usually see in Whyalla.
The area is super family-friendly, with picnic spots, BBQs, and shaded areas, so you can make a day of it. The paths are mostly flat and accessible, making it stroller or wheelchair friendly. The wetlands were built on part of the old aerodrome and are also known as the Jim Pollock Whyalla Wetlands, named after a former mayor who helped make the space happen.
Feeling hungry after your walk? Stop by Sumthin’ Tastee for brunch or lunch. They have some of the best fries in town!
#11: Elvis Museum
Are you a big Elvis fan? I mean, honestly, who isn’t? Well, I can promise you, this man is an even bigger one, and he has the memorabilia in his museum/home to prove it. With multiple rooms filled with Elvis trinkets, clocks, antiques, and more, you can wander through his home and enjoy a fascinating look back at the history of Elvis.
To visit, just call or message Mr. Breeze, the fan himself, to schedule a tour in Whyalla.
#12: Steelworks tour
Want to see how steel is made? Hop on a bus at the Whyalla Visitor Information Centre (right next to the big HMAS Whyalla ship) and get ready to explore one of Australia's most iconic steelmaking sites, the Whyalla Steelworks. Drive past all the big parts of the steelworks, like the huge furnace where they melt the iron, ovens that turn coal into coke, and the areas where they shape and roll the steel into beams, rails, and sleepers for train tracks. Depending on what is happening that day, you might see different parts of the process in action.
Tour Times: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 9:30 AM (excluding public holidays)
Tour Duration: 1.5 hours
Tour Fee: Adults 29 AUD, Concession 25 AUD, Children (must be 7+) 18 AUD, with some family deals as well
The Best Hiking Day Trips from Whyalla
The bright orange, red, and yellow mountains of the Flinders Ranges, a must-see natural wonder near Whyalla.
#13: Flinders Ranges
If you are up for a day trip and are a big mountain and rock fan like me, I highly recommend heading into the Flinders Ranges for an epic adventure from Whyalla. The Flinders Ranges are perfect for hiking, scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and photography. The park is about 3.5 to 4 hours from Whyalla, so it is best to set aside a full day. Be sure to check the weather before heading out, as really windy days can blow sand everywhere and limit visibility. There is a small entrance fee of 10 AUD per vehicle.
The best things to do in the Flinders Ranges:
Scenic Drives: Brachina Gorge and Bunyeroo Gorge Scenic Drives are two of the most popular routes in the Flinders Ranges. Both roads are dirt and rocky, so be sure to bring a good off-road vehicle for the journey.
Brachina Gorge Road: About 20 km, this drive takes you through ancient rocks and geological history dating back over 600 million years. If you like pretty orange rocks and history, this one is for you. The main attraction for me was spotting the yellow-footed rock wallabies. If you cannot find them, be sure to check in shady areas and under trees during the day.
Bunyeroo Gorge Scenic Drive: About 31 km, this drive is more about expansive landscapes with vast rock formations and wide valleys.
Razorback Lookout: A high ridge offering incredible sunrise views over the Flinders Ranges. You can access this lookout via the Bunyeroo Gorge Scenic Drive.
Aroona: A scenic lookout along the Brachina Gorge drive with beautiful views of sloping hills and colorful mountains. Perfect for photos or a quick stop to soak in the landscape.
Stokes Hill Lookout: Located off the main paved road, this lookout provides rolling hills, winding roads, and mountain views, plus a cell tower for service.
Hucks Lookout: Similar to Stokes Hill, this viewpoint offers panoramic mountain views, ideal for photography and spotting wildlife.
#14: Mount Brown
An 8.2-mile (13 KM) loop hike with about 1800 feet of elevation gain, offering stunning views over the surrounding hills and valleys.
#15: Alligator Gorge
A 5.4-mile (8.8 km) loop with approximately 1,066 feet of elevation gain, featuring rock hopping through narrow gorges, scenic terraces, and wildflowers in spring. Think the Narrows in Zion National Park!
#16: Devils Peak (Sunrise)
A 1.5-mile (2.4 KM) return hike with about 820 feet of elevation gain, featuring steep sections and some rock scrambling. The summit offers panoramic sunrise views over the Southern Flinders Ranges and beyond.
Whyalla Restaurants, Cafes, and Local Eats
The Best Banh Mi: NHQ Vietnamese Kitchen
They have a vegetarian option and occasionally have gluten-free desserts.
Fancy a Jacket Potato? Try Whyalla Central Deli
The Best Coffee Shops - Eyre Pantry & Stomping Grounds (this one’s not on Google Maps, but it is around the corner from the WhyDive Shop.
Looking for a Breakfast spot? Try Whisk Away
A Lunch by the Wetlands? Sumthin' Tastee
A Dinner Out? The Eyre Hotel
Thai Takeaway? Thai Chili Basil
Indian Cuisine? Tandoori Guru
Whyalla Accommodations: Caravan Parks, Camping, & Hotels
If you want to be nearby to food options, gas, and other conveniences, I suggest staying right in downtown Whyalla. Otherwise, you can stay near Point Lowly, which is only a 25-30 minute ride from downtown Whyalla.
Best Accommodation Options in Whyalla For Every Traveler…
Backpacker/Hostel Option: Eyre Hotel
Best Low-Budget: The Sundowner Cabin & Tourist Park
Best Mid-Budget: Whyalla Playford Apartments
Best High-End Budget: Point Lowly Cottages
Best Caravan & Campgrounds: Whyalla Caravan And Tourist Park or Discovery Parks - Whyalla Foreshore
You can also find hotel deals at Agoda and Hostel World! You can help support my travel blog by clicking and booking through the links at no additional cost to you!
Best Time to Visit Whyalla
The best time to visit Whyalla is during the Giant Australian Cuttlefish mating season, which usually runs from June to August. Peak sightings can shift each year, but in 2025, the highest numbers were seen in late June and July. This is also one of the best times to enjoy the top things to do in Whyalla, with cooler weather that is perfect for hiking, exploring the coastline, and escaping the summer heat.
Whyalla Travel Tips
Visit during the Giant Australian Cuttlefish mating season between June and early August.
Book your accommodation early during cuttlefish season. Whyalla is quite small, and if you are not driving in a caravan or have a rooftop tent, it is best to book a few weeks ahead.
If you are visiting for the cuttlefish, plan to stay for a few days in case the trip is cancelled due to weather.
Keep an eye out for wildlife like emus and kangaroos, especially while driving.
Pack your winter outdoor essentials. I recommend bringing a cozy jacket and long pants. The water temperature during cuttlefish season sits between 11–17°C, depending on when you visit, so you will definitely want warm clothes waiting for you once you are out of the water.
Respect marine life. If you are diving or snorkeling with the cuttlefish, never touch, chase, or frighten them. Be mindful when taking photos or videos so you do not stir up sand or damage the marine plants below. This can disturb both the cuttlefish and their egg dens. I saw so many people this past season almost kick a cuttlefish with their fins because they were too focused on getting the perfect shot.
Download an eSIM: So you have service throughout Australia. You can also purchase a physical SIM card, like Telstra (this is the one I use).
Mistakes can happen, especially with wildlife around and while diving and snorkeling, so I recommend always having some form of travel medical insurance. Safety Wing is by far the best travel medical insurance I have used. If you are on your Work Holiday Visa, you can try CBHS International.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Whyalla best known for?
Whyalla is best known for the Giant Australian Cuttlefish migration, where thousands of cuttlefish gather to breed each winter.
When is the best time to visit Whyalla?
The best time to visit Whyalla is during winter (June to August), especially if you want to see the cuttlefish. The cooler months are also perfect for hiking and exploring nearby national parks.
Can you swim in Whyalla?
Yes, Whyalla has calm, clear beaches that are great for swimming, especially around the foreshore and Point Lowly (around the marina). During winter, the water is quite cold, but it is worth it for snorkeling with the Giant Cuttlefish.
How Many days do you need in Whyalla?
I suggest planning to spend at least 3 days in Whyalla. The weather can affect when cuttlefish tours run, so you want to be sure you have an extra day should the weather turn.
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