Whyalla Weekend Escapes

Potential visitors to Whyalla will be surprised to discover that this underestimated city sat on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula is the fourth largest in the state. It’s larger than Port Lincoln. But what might cause even more surprise, is that this famously industrial town is absolutely more than just that. This is a city made for the outdoor explorer and suited to the city slicker. Stretching coastlines, secluded beaches, parks, cafes and museums, all paired with 300 days of sunshine make for a killer combination.

To uncover more tips regarding things to do in Whyalla, check out our Ultimate Guide. This Ultimate Guide will help you craft your very own Whyalla Weekend Escape.

Whyalla is an industrial town, driven by local steel and petroleum industries. Explorer Edward John Eyre in 1840 discovered the presence of iron stone just 50km west of Whyalla, with the first attempts to mine beginning in the 1890s. As a result of its industrial history, Whyalla boasts a unique past accessible to tourists via museums and local tours. In fact, holding the only public steelworks tour in Australia, makes up another interesting part of the town’s identity.

Also of particular note, at the Whyalla Maritime Museum visitors to the city can dive into the past, learning about settler history and the region’s connection with – as well as reliance upon – Spencer Gulf. The diverse museum also introduces visitors to the Barngarla people – the traditional custodians of the land – who typically wore kangaroo skin cloaks and hunted both land as well as marine life for food. Further museums and a gaol, which today portray the intricacies of local colonial histories are certainly worth a visit.

Nature without a doubt makes for one of Whyalla’s most desirable qualities as a Weekend Escape destination. On one side, Spencer Gulf’s captivatingly blue water glistens in the sun and flourishes with marine life. Dolphins are easily spotted here on a daily basis, but the stars of the show here are colourful cuttlefish which accumulate in the water between May and August. Researchers from the University of Melbourne have suggested that Whyalla is home to “the largest aggregation of Giant Cuttlefish in the world”. Diving, kayaking, snorkelling, swimming and SUP boarding are all great ways to admire the shimmering seas at Whyalla.

Heading inland, Whyalla’s surrounding landscapes are also worth some exploration. Located only 10 kilometres from the centre of the city, the Whyalla Conservation Park offers a scenic walking trail which leads visitors to the top of Wild Dog Hill. Scenes of dry red earth and rocky wilderness – which are best witnessed with the reds and yellows of Eyre Peninsula sunsets – immerse hikers in a true South Australian landscape.

During a trip to Whyalla, visitors will want to enjoy some local bites and most likely enjoy some leisurely morning coffees. There are a number of cafes in Whyalla, some by the sea and some further into the city. Heading down to the Whyalla Foreshore for your morning tea and cake guarantees great views.

In terms of local dining, there are a number of family favourites sprinkled across the town. And, since we’re in coastal South Australia, you’re also promised the option of fish and chips at any time of day. However, there are a number of more luxurious dining experiences which serve up quality local meats and fresh seafood. During your Whyalla Weekend Escape you’ve certainly got time to indulge in a few tasty options.