Streaky Bay to Ceduna: The SA Road Trip We're Taking This Summer

Who doesn’t love a good road trip? You get to load up on your favourite snacks, get the Spotify playlist ready and embark on a memorable journey on the open road with fun stops along the way. Sure, flying from one place to the next saves time, but you never know how much you miss - from stunning beaches and charming towns to historic monuments and nature at its best. 

This summer, we are heading to the gorgeous Eyre Peninsula to soak up as much sun, sea and adventure as possible. The stretch from Streaky Bay to Ceduna is nothing short of a coastal driving dream come true. With stunning ocean views as your trusty companion, this journey promises to be a delightful escape. 

Clocking in at just over one hour (if you manage to resist those irresistible photo ops), this road trip allows you to take your time as you leisurely pull up to explore quaint coastal towns and picturesque spots along the way. We've got a couple of pit stops planned to stretch the legs and capture Insta-worthy moments.

So, pack your sunscreen, snacks, and a sense of wanderlust, because this road trip from Streaky Bay to Ceduna is your ticket to a sun-soaked, fun-filled adventure like no other! 

Streaky Bay

This is where our road trip officially begins, but you’d be missing out on some amazing scenery and beach bliss if you didn’t take some time to explore the town before heading off. Streaky Bay is wonderfully isolated, yet full of friendly locals who are more than happy to show you around. 

Walk through the laidback town and follow the 2.6km Streaky Bay Historic Walk, and don’t miss the Powerhouse Museum for some history and culture lessons. Get a feel of the ocean from the Streaky Bay Jetty, and if time allows – a little dip is never a bad idea in these turquoise waters.  

Before heading off, you’ll likely want to fuel up for the drive ahead, and lucky for you, Funk’d Flowers and Coffee is serving up fresh brews and a simple (but delicious) breakky menu from 8am, Monday through Saturday. And while you probably won’t be taking any of the fresh florals with you, it’s certainly a pretty sight to see the assortment of blooms as you enjoy your meal and get ready to jump back in the car – caffeine fix sorted.  

Stay: If you’re spending the night in Streaky Bay, Pod[e] Mulla Mulla is a taste of tranquil luxury by the rugged coast. This tiny but mighty pod is located in Westall, and redefines the term ‘glamping’ with the eco-friendly space brilliantly designed by A-HA Studio, reflecting the feathery ‘Mulla Mulla’ plant that is endemic to the Eyre Peninsula. Escape into your secluded sanctuary of soft pastel hues and natural wood finishes and enjoy true R and R, with only the sounds of wildlife and the ocean around you. 

Whistling Rocks

This is a little detour, but it is absolutely worth the added time. Just a mere 20 minutes from the Streaky Bay township lies the enchanting Whistling Rocks, a must-visit spot for every adventurer and photography enthusiast. This natural wonder beckons travelers from far and wide, drawing them in with the promise of an ocean spectacle.

As high tide approaches, the sea surges with power, forcing its way through narrow crevices in the rocks to craft spurts of watery blow holes. Descend the numerous steps and be captivated by the impressive sounds of crashing waves and the sheer force of the relentless ocean. Whistling Rocks is a coastal marvel that will leave you truly awe inspired. 

Murphy's Haystacks

Another short half-hour detour in the opposite direction from Streaky Bay brings you to the remarkable Murphy's Haystacks, an absolute gem along your road trip route. These ancient granite rocks have stood the test of time for hundreds of thousands of years, boasting a unique, almost whimsical shape that has made them some of the most photographed rock formations in South Australia.

Don't just admire them from a distance; take a stroll along the path to uncover the hidden treasures. With time on your side, exploring Murphy's Haystacks is an opportunity to admire ancient history and capture some unforgettable moments. 

Park entry: Private property, a gold coin donation is appreciated to help with park maintenance.

Perlubie Beach

Perlubie is a welcoming stop on your journey to Ceduna, as it has long been a hidden and isolated coastal treasure. Perlubie Beach, with its stretch of pristine white sands and inviting turquoise waters, beckons sun-seekers to its shores, especially on those warm summer days.

What truly sets Perlubie apart is its thriving beach camping scene. Don't be surprised to find caravans and tents dotted along the shoreline, as this spot is renowned as one of the most budget-friendly and idyllic beachfront camping destinations on the Eyre Peninsula. Over the years, Perlubie's popularity has soared, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking seaside serenity and affordable adventure. 

Acraman Creek Conservation Park

If you plan accordingly, your road trip can take you past the serenity of Acraman Creek Conservation Park, where nature and wildlife await. Whether you're an angler or an observer, the park's surrounding waterways - including the Great Australian Bight and Acraman Creek - offer opportunities for fishing, bird watching and canoeing. Offshore, a fascinating shipwreck echoes past whaling history. 

Take a leisurely stroll through the park and you’ll likely encounter an assortment of bird life - this area is a vital feeding ground for coastal birds, attracting migratory waders like sandpipers and stilts from as far as the Arctic Circle.  

Park entry: Free.

Smoky Bay

Smoky Bay is a captivating coastal gem, where you may want to linger a little longer as you uncover the charms of this small town. With its picturesque bay and inviting beaches perfect for swimming, Smoky Bay is a haven for relaxation, as well as a renowned fishing destination for razorfish and crabbing. 

It’s not a bad idea to plan your arrival around lunchtime, as Smoky Bay is one of the most ideal places to savor the taste of the sea, with this thriving town being responsible for almost half of South Australia’s oyster production. Head to the General Store for a dozen (or more) of the freshest oysters, practically straight from the source. Smoky Bay is where relaxation meets coastal adventure and seafood delights. 

Laura Bay Conservation Park

Only 15 minutes out of Ceduna, Laura Bay Conservation Park is a bushwalking paradise. Here, the park stands as a testament to the original vegetation that once blanketed South Australia's western coastline. Its sheltered bay, featuring tidal samphire flats and thriving mangroves, serves as a haven for sea birds, including those migrating from the northern hemisphere. 

As you explore, keep an eye out for the remnants of a historic landing site, a bustling hub in 1911 where horse-drawn drays transported grain from nearby farms. Venture along the sandy cove to find tide pools or embark on a bushwalk through the park's diverse vegetation and rocky headlands. If you're lucky, you may spot honeyeaters sipping nectar from blooming plants or Western grey kangaroos seeking shade from the daytime heat.  

Park entry: Free.

Ceduna

And just like that, the road trip concludes! You’ve made it to Ceduna – albeit with a few worthy stops along the way - and now it’s time to relax and rejuvenate in the last major SA town before the Western Australian border. Discover pristine beaches, take a dip in turquoise waters, and savor fresh oceanic delights. Just five minutes from town, Shelly Beach offers rock pools and crystal waters, while an hour away lies the famous pink-hued Lake MacDonnell. Ceduna is your gateway to coastal wonders, cultural and culinary delights.  

Offering a rich cultural experience along with natural wonders, immerse yourself in local heritage on the Encounter Walking Trail and explore the premier Aboriginal arts center, Arts Ceduna, boasting the works of over 130 artists. 

From May to October, witness the mesmerizing Southern Right Whales on their migration, either from shore or on a whale-watching cruise. Nestled in the remote Nullarbor region, Ceduna also boasts minimal light pollution, providing a stargazing treat – so be sure to look up come nightfall. 

Got the taste for the open road and seeking more Australian adventures? Check out the epic road trip from Adelaide to Perth, or take the car national with the best road trips in Australia to put on your bucket list!