Summer Series – Roadtrippin’ R-Adelaide, Day 9

It was an early start heading west toward Coffin Bay and Coffin Bay National Park. A quick stop for coffee and a sandwich set the scene for the day, with supplies packed and ready for the road ahead.

Coffin Bay sits on the western edge of the Eyre Peninsula, a place shaped by wind, sea and isolation. The bay was named in 1802 by explorer Matthew Flinders, likely after a shipmate rather than anything darker. For generations it has been tied to fishing, oyster farming and a tough coastal lifestyle, with a small township that feels purpose built for the water it faces.

Venturing into Coffin Bay National Park meant slowing right down. Established in 1967, the park protects a vast sweep of coastal dunes, heath, mallee and saltmarsh. Much of it is only accessible by high clearance four wheel drive, so a two wheel drive visit narrows the options, but not the beauty.

The first stop was at Templeton Lookout. The lookout sits above sweeping sand dunes and gives a wide view over the southern coastline, a chance to understand the scale and wildness of the park. It is named after early pastoral interests in the region and today serves as one of the best vantage points for seeing how land and sea collide here.

Next was Yangie Bay, a calm inlet with a long Aboriginal history. The area is part of the traditional lands of the Barngarla people, who lived along these coasts for thousands of years, relying on shellfish, fish and coastal plants. European use later focused on fishing and grazing, but the bay has largely returned to a quiet, natural rhythm.

From there it was just under three kilometre to complete the lookout loop. The trail wound past views over the bay, rocky headlands and broad saltmarshes that change colour with the light. Curious emus wandered close, and kangaroos appeared only after careful watching, huge and perfectly camouflaged in the scrub.

The campground facilities added a moment of drama. The long drop toilet came with a cloud of bees that seemed far too interested in my presence, a reminder that this park is not overly curated for comfort!

Continuing on, stops at Avoid Bay, Golden Island and other lookouts reachable by two wheel drive. It ruled out much of the park, unfortunately, but what was accessible was still breathtaking and well worth the effort.

Afterwards came what I had really come for, the oysters. Coffin Bay oysters are famous for a reason. Oyster farming here began in the 1960s, when the clean, cold waters were recognised as ideal for cultivation. The industry has since become central to the local economy and identity, known for producing plump oysters with a clean, briny flavour.

A stop at Oyster HQ, right on the waterfront overlooks a working oyster farm. Plates of natural oysters and topped varieties were consumed! They were fresh and unmistakably local. It was simple, indulgent yet deeply satisfying.

The day finished with a scenic drive through Lincoln National Park. Proclaimed in 1945, the park protects rugged coastline, bushland and sheltered bays east of Port Lincoln. Boston Bay spread out below, is often described as one of Australia’s largest natural harbours,. Its calm waters hold beaches that felt pristine and almost private. It looked like a personal sanctuary, a quiet end to a full day on the Eyre Peninsula.

Here are some of my favourite pictures from Day 9…

Summer Series – Roadtrippin’ R-Adelaide, Day 8

Leaving Port Augusta behind, the onward journey to Port Lincoln unfolded through starkly beautiful arid outback countryside, where vast plains stretch to the horizon and the landscape feels both harsh and captivating. The drive offered a powerful sense of space and scale, setting the tone for the Eyre Peninsula experience.

A stop in picturesque Whyalla provided a glimpse into South Australia’s industrial and maritime past. Originally established as a port in the early twentieth century, Whyalla grew around shipbuilding and steelmaking, industries that shaped both the town and the wider region. The “Roundabout Jetty” is a popular place to pause, offering calm waters and views across Spencer Gulf, while the Hummock Hill Lookout delivers sweeping panoramas over the town, the gulf, and the surrounding landscape, along with a monument that reflects Whyalla’s strong connection to industry and defence.

Further along the coast lies the historic town of Cowell. Founded as a port servicing the pastoral and agricultural districts inland, Cowell developed steadily as a grain handling and export point. Today it retains its quiet coastal charm, with a long jetty stretching into Franklin Harbor and a relaxed atmosphere that reflects its roots as a hardworking seaside community.

Port Lincoln came into view shortly after lunchtime, perched at the bottom of the Eyre Peninsula and wrapped around Boston Bay. Established in 1802 by explorer Matthew Flinders, it holds the distinction of being the first European settlement in South Australia, although the colony was later moved to Adelaide. Now known as the Seafood Capital of Australia, Port Lincoln thrives on fishing, aquaculture, and tourism, blending a working port with a lively food and drink scene.

Naturally, the local brewing and distilling offerings form part of the experience, so I had to check them out! Jumping Ship Brewing Co. stands out for both atmosphere and beer, reflecting Port Lincoln’s seafaring heritage and relaxed coastal culture. The venue has quickly become a local favourite, known for well-crafted brews and a welcoming, community-focused vibe.

The West Coast Distilling Co. adds a different flavour to the town’s drinks scene. With a strong focus on gin, the distillery offers a diverse range of styles alongside a funky, modern setting and an impressive cocktail selection, making it as much about the experience as the spirits themselves.

Dinner at Port Lincoln Brewing Co. rounded out Day 8. As one of the pioneers of the town’s craft beer movement, the brewery features a spacious beer garden, excellent pizzas, and a lively atmosphere. The Paralyser chicken wing challenge adds a sense of fun for those brave enough to attempt it. For non-beer drinkers, the venue also stocks a strong selection of local wines and gins, showcasing the broader produce of the region. Coffin Bay “High Tide” gin is highly recommended!

From open plains and historic towns to coastal views and standout food and drink, the journey to Port Lincoln captures the rugged beauty and rich character of South Australia’s west coast.

Here are some of my favourite pictures from Day 8…