18 Things To See On The Nullarbor Plain: Don’t Miss Them!

The Nullarbor is a rite of passage for any Australian road-tripper worth their salt.

Stretching 1,664 kilometres along the Eyre Highway, this iconic journey between South Australia and Western Australia is jam-packed with incredible things to see – whales, massive cliffs, caves, and quirky roadhouses!

Plus, the road is fully sealed, so any car can tackle the adventure. Proud drivers love to slap the “I crossed the Nullarbor” sticker on their car, and you’ll want to join that club after experiencing the journey.

But… it’s called “Nullarbor” for a reason – Null = none; arbor = tree. It’s going to be a treeless drive of 6-7 days, thankfully with heaps of things to see along the way.

In this article, we’ll cover all the must-see spots to help you plan the ultimate Nullarbor journey. Let’s dive in!

18 things to see on the Nullarbor

We recognise the traditional owners of this land, the Mirning people.

1) Whales at Head of Bight

Head of Bight offers one of the best whale-watching experiences in Australia.

From mid-May to late October, southern right whales migrate through these waters to mate and give birth to their calves, before going to the Southern Ocean to continue their migration.

It’s a unique natural spectacle. After the birthing season, around late August, you can see up to 70 whales at the same time!

The dramatic cliffs also give you sweeping views of the Great Australian Bight.

There’s a small fee to access the viewing platforms, but it’s worth it for the unforgettable wildlife experience. Bring a jacket as it can get windy along the cliffs.

2) Nullarbor Links Golf Course

The Nullarbor Links is the world’s longest golf course, stretching 1,365 km from Ceduna to Kalgoorlie! It’s a quirky and iconic experience that combines a road trip with a bit of fun at each stop.

You can play a hole at each roadhouse and town along the route, with each hole reflecting the local environment.

Make sure to stop at the Nullarbor Roadhouse to play Hole 5, “Dingo’s Den.” Even if you’re not a golfer, it’s worth doing just for the novelty.

If you’re not up for playing all 18 holes, pick a couple along the way for a quick stretch and some laughs. Hire clubs at the roadhouses and don’t forget to get your scorecard stamped at each location!

3) Bunda Cliffs

The Bunda Cliffs are part of Australia’s longest line of sea cliffs and drop straight into the Southern Ocean. The views are breathtaking, and the cliffs stretch for over 200 km along the Great Australian Bight.

There are several lookout points along the Eyre Highway from which you can take in the sheer scale of the cliffs. There’s also free camping along the cliffs, to catch the best sunset or sunrise of your life!

It can be VERY windy, though. Weather can change quickly as well, so come prepared with everything.

4) Eucla Telegraph Station

The Eucla Telegraph Station is a fascinating historical site that’s slowly being swallowed by the sand dunes. It’s an eerie reminder of the isolation and hard conditions faced by early settlers.

Walk through the crumbling stone walls of the station. Imagine what life was like when this outpost was one of the busiest telegraph stations in Australia, more than a century ago!

A short walk or 4WD track will also take you to the nearby beach and derelict jetty, another relic of a bygone era.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat, and wear comfortable shoes for walking through the sand.

5) Australia’s Longest Straight Road (90 Mile Straight)

The 90-Mile Straight is the longest stretch of straight road in Australia, running 146.6 km between Balladonia and Caiguna.

It’s an iconic part of the Nullarbor drive and a true test of endurance for road trippers.

You MUST take a photo with the sign marking the start of the 90 Mile Straight for a classic Nullarbor memory.

The road can feel endless, but it’s a testament to the expansiveness of the area. Just avoid driving it at dawn or dusk, it can be very dangerous due to the kangaroos, emus, and other wildlife.

6) Fowlers Bay

Fowlers Bay is a hidden gem on the edge of the Nullarbor, perfect for whale watching, fishing, and 4WDing. It’s a peaceful coastal retreat before or after the long drive across the plains.

From June to September, whale watching is the highlight here. You can either watch from the shore or book a boat tour to get closer to the action.

The bay is also great for fishing, with plenty of spots along the shore. If you’re feeling adventurous, take your 4WD over the sand dunes for some off-road fun! There’s a pink lake nearby as well.

7) Penong Windmill Museum

Penong is known for its impressive collection of windmills. The outdoor museum showcases the vital role windmills have played in providing water to the area, and it’s a unique sight on the Nullarbor.

Take a stroll through the museum and marvel at the size and variety of the windmills on display. The highlight is “Big Windy,” one of the largest working windmills in Australia.

It’s a great place to stretch your legs before the final stretch to Ceduna!

8) Fraser Range

Fraser Range offers a striking contrast to the barren Nullarbor. This area is covered in dense eucalyptus forests and towering trees, making it an unexpected oasis in the outback.

There are several walking trails through the forest, and the Fraser Range Station offers a taste of outback life with camping, a caravan park, and even accommodation in old shearers’ quarters.

It’s also a great spot for birdwatching and stargazing!

This is a good spot to break up your journey with an overnight stay. The station has basic facilities, and the peaceful surroundings are perfect for recharging before the next leg of your trip.

9) Cactus Beach (4WD)

Cactus Beach is an iconic destination for surfers. It’s renowned for its world-class breaks, attracting surfers from across the globe.

Even if you’re not into surfing, the rugged beauty of the coastline is worth a visit.

The road to the beach is unsealed, so a 4WD is recommended. There’s a basic bush campground nearby if you want to stay overnight. Bring all your supplies, as facilities are minimal.

10) Murrawijinie Caves

The Murrawijinie Caves are the only caves on the Nullarbor that are easily accessible to the public without needing special permits.

Located near the Nullarbor Roadhouse, they provide a fascinating look into the region’s geological history.

Hawks and swallows often nest in the caves, adding to the experience! But bring a torch and wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain inside the caves can be uneven.

Be cautious of snakes, especially in the warmer months.

11) Nullarbor Roadhouse

The Nullarbor Roadhouse is more than just a place to refuel—it’s a landmark in its own right.

Positioned in the heart of the Nullarbor, it offers vital services and acts as a gateway to nearby attractions like the Murrawijinie Caves and Head of Bight.

The roadhouse also features a small museum with local history and Nullarbor memorabilia. You can also try your hand at Hole 5 of the Nullarbor Links Golf Course, located right at the roadhouse.

It has all kinds of accommodation – from motel rooms to powered and unpowered sites. But you must book well ahead of time, more so if you want to visit in peak season.

Check the current rates of Nullarbor Roadhouse here!

12) Koonalda Homestead & Caves (4WD)

Koonalda Homestead is an abandoned station with historical significance, providing a glimpse into life on the Nullarbor in earlier times.

You can walk through the decaying homestead buildings and imagine life in this harsh environment.

Then, explore the Koonalda Caves, which are not far from the homestead. The caves hold ancient Aboriginal art, offering a rare connection to the cultural history of the region.

Accessing Koonalda Homestead requires a 4WD, and the area is remote, so plan your trip accordingly. Bring plenty of water and supplies, and make sure your vehicle is ready for the rough terrain.

13) Balladonia Cultural Heritage Museum

Balladonia hit international headlines in 1979 when debris from NASA’s Skylab space station crashed nearby.

Today, the Balladonia Cultural Heritage Museum showcases this unique event, along with exhibits on Aboriginal history and local flora and fauna.

The museum is located at the Balladonia Roadhouse, which is a perfect stop for an overnight stay.

14) Madura Pass Scenic Lookout

The Madura Pass has a lookout that offers expansive views over the plains, giving you a true sense of the vastness of the Nullarbor. It’s a perfect place to pause and soak in the isolation.

Pull over at the lookout to take in the view, stretch your legs, and capture some panoramic photos of the pass and the plains stretching out below.

You can’t camp there, but there’s a rest stop nearby where to stay overnight and watch the sunrise or sunset.

15) Scott’s Bay

Scott’s Bay is a long, exposed beach near Fowler’s Bay, known for its massive sand dunes, pristine coastline, and excellent rock and reef fishing.

It’s an ideal stop for those looking to get off the beaten path!

You can surf, try your hand at fishing or simply enjoy a walk along the 4.5 km stretch of beach. The surrounding sand dunes also offer the chance for some 4WD exploration.

16) Eyre Bird Observatory (4WD)

The Eyre Bird Observatory is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, set in the remote Nuytsland Nature Reserve.

It’s Australia’s first bird observatory and a fantastic place to observe a wide variety of bird species.

Join one of the guided birdwatching tours or explore the reserve at your own pace. The observatory offers accommodation too, making it a unique spot to spend the night! Booking is essential, more info here.

The observatory is off the main road and accessible by 4WD.

17) Weebubbie Cave (4WD)

Weebubbie Cave is a hidden gem on the Nullarbor and is popular among cave divers. Its crystal-clear underground lakes make it one of the most impressive and challenging cave systems in the region.

If you’re an experienced cave diver, Weebubbie Cave offers a thrilling adventure. For non-divers, visiting the cave entrance and surrounding area is still a worthwhile stop to experience the scale and beauty of the Nullarbor’s cave network.

You need a 4WD to access Weebubbie Cave.

18) Stargazing

The Nullarbor offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in Australia due to the lack of light pollution. The wide-open skies create perfect conditions for spotting constellations, planets, and shooting stars.

Find a safe, open area, turn off your car lights, and gaze up at the night sky. On clear nights, you’ll see the Milky Way. It’s a humbling experience that’s hard to match anywhere else in the country.

Top Tips

You’ll share the Eyre Highway with road trains. These massive trucks can be over 50 metres long. Give them plenty of room when overtaking – they won’t slow down.

Respect the speed limit of 110 km/h and expect strong winds, especially near the coast.

Also, plan for switching drivers during the 90-mile straight, it’s easy to zone out there and fatigue can quickly sneak up.

Caiguna also has its own unofficial time zone, halfway between SA and WA time. Don’t get confused!

Did you know?

Explorer Edward John Eyre was the first European to cross the Nullarbor in 1841. His gruelling journey, alongside his Aboriginal guide Wylie, opened up this remote region, but Eyre himself described the landscape as a “hideous anomaly.”

FAQs

The bottom line

The Nullarbor offers much more than just a long road between South Australia and Western Australia —it’s full of unforgettable sights and experiences.

You’ll find stunning spots like Bunda Cliffs and the unique Nullarbor Links golf course that make every stop exciting. Whale watching at Head of Bight or exploring the historic Eucla Telegraph Station adds even more to the adventure.

Embrace the journey, take your time, and enjoy everything this iconic Aussie road trip has to offer!

Did we miss a spot on the Nullarbor? Leave it down in the comments!