Ceduna is a charming town on the far west coast of the Eyre Peninsula, boasting breathtaking lookouts, fascinating history and plenty of natural wonders.
While it is known as the oyster capital of Australia, there are plenty of other things to do in Ceduna. Check out this list for local attractions and bucket-list experiences.
Arts Ceduna
Located in the Ceduna Aboriginal Culture Centre, Arts Ceduna is the biggest hub of Aboriginal art in the Eyre Peninsula. When visiting, you will discover work from more than 100 Aboriginal artists supported by the centre each year. Works including sculptures, paintings, jewellery and pottery are on display for visitors to enjoy, each sharing a unique story of culture and connection to Country.
As well as acting as a gallery and art shop, Arts Ceduna also promotes Aboriginal Artists by providing skills training and high-quality art supplies. All profits from the centre go back into the artistic community.
Ceduna School House Museum
Built in 1912, the Ceduna School House Museum has served as the first post office and first gaol in town. Today, it contains a large collection of Aboriginal artefacts, as well as photos and documents from Maralinga Village where British Nuclear tests were conducted between 1956 and 1963.
Wandering the complex, you will come across several important buildings including the Denial Bay Gaol, machinery sheds, a blacksmith’s shop, a church and a cottage. The buildings contain fascinating glimpses into the past, with machinery and household goods from pioneering families, as well as the cast of a 25-foot basking shark and the skull of a Southern Right whale. No matter what sort of history you’re interested in, you’ll find something amazing here.
Alexander’s Beach
If you’re looking for outdoor fun, head down to Alexander’s beach. This popular swimming spot is known for crystal-clear waters and soft sand, only a few minutes walk from the main shopping street for cafes and dining options.
The shade shelter is a great place to set up camp away from the burning sun, while the grassed area and moored raft out from the shore make for hours of beach fun. Along the foreshore, a children’s playground is the ideal place for little ones to burn off some energy.
There are several other beaches just a short drive from Ceduna, including Shelly Beach. Aside from being a great place for families to swim and sunbathe, it is also home to a popular Caravan park with a range of accommodation options. Indulge in a waterfront spa villa or eco beach chalet, with spacious bedrooms and ensuites. Or, choose to stay in a pet-friendly cabin, camper or tent. There’s a camp kitchen, kiosk and laundry on site, as well as playgrounds and games to keep the whole family entertained.
Ceduna Jetty
At Ceduna Jetty, just a short walk from the beach, you’ll find plenty of opportunity for fishing, squidding and drop-netting. Common catches include salmon, king george whiting, tommy ruff and garfish. Ceduna is also a hotspot for blue swimmer crabs, and crab nets can be purchased from a number of shops on the main strip.
If boating is more your thing, the main boat ramp is just 80 metres away. Head out into the sea for a chance to catch snapper and snook, or simply take in a beautiful sunset as it reflects off the calm waters.
Encounter Walking Trail
The Encounter Walking Trail is a 3.6 kilometre trail that winds along the foreshore from Ceduna Sailing Club to Pinky Point Lookout. Along the way, you’ll find painted clay tiles designed by local artists and children. These colourful murals contrast against the blue of the sea, making for a great photo.
At the end of the walk, you will find yourself at a lookout with views stretching all the way to Denial Bay. Pinky Point Lookout also provides a barbeque and picnic area for refueling after the walk. Make sure to take a look through the telescope for a close-up of the natural landscape.
Googs Track
4WD enthusiasts will love traversing Googs Track, one of South Australia’s most famous 4WD adventures. Stretching from Ceduna to Glendambo, it takes you over more than 300 sand dunes, through a conservation park and along Googs Lake. Keep an eye out for wombats, kangaroos and malleefowls, who are known to pop up along the way for a quick hello.
When passing the lake, you’ll also find the Goog and Dinger Memorial, which was erected to honour Goog and Dinger Denton, the men who forged the track.
To read about the best oyster experiences in Ceduna, click here.
