10 best things to do or see when travelling
the Nullarbor Plain

Stretching across the southern edge of Australia, the Nullarbor Plain offers a unique road trip experience. From stunning coastal views to quirky attractions, there’s more to this vast expanse than meets the eye. Let’s explore the top 10 things to do and see while traversing the Eyre Highway on this unforgettable journey.

1. Penong Windmills: A unique outdoor museum

At the eastern edge of the Nullarbor Plain, travellers can’t miss the Penong Windmills. This outdoor museum showcases a collection of windmills that played a crucial role in the town’s history. The towering structures create a striking visual against the blue sky and flat landscape, offering a perfect photo opportunity for road trippers.

2. Bunda Cliffs: Standing on the edge of Australia

One of the most breathtaking sights along the Nullarbor Plain is the Bunda Cliffs. These towering sea cliffs offer spectacular views of the Great Australian Bight. Visitors can stop at several lookout points to marvel at the sheer drop and expansive ocean views. The Bunda Cliffs stretch for kilometres, providing numerous opportunities to appreciate this natural wonder.

3. Whale watching at head of the Bight

Between June and September, the Head of the Bight becomes a prime whale watching spot. Southern right whales and humpback whales gather in the protected bays to calve and nurse their young. The Head of the Bight Whale Watching Centre provides an excellent vantage point for observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

4. Teeing off on the world’s longest golf course

Golf enthusiasts won’t want to miss the chance to play a round on the Nullarbor Links. This unique golf course stretches over 1,300 kilometres, with holes at various roadhouses and towns along the Nullarbor Plain. Even non-golfers can enjoy the experience, as each hole tells a story about the local history and landscape.

5. Exploring the Eucla Telegraph Station ruins

A stop at Eucla reveals the haunting ruins of the old telegraph station. This historic site offers a glimpse into the region’s past and the challenges faced by early settlers. The sight of the building slowly being reclaimed by sand dunes creates a poignant atmosphere, perfect for reflection and photography.

6. Nullarbor Roadhouse: More than just a pit stop

The Nullarbor Roadhouse serves as a central hub for travellers crossing the plain. Beyond offering fuel and accommodation, it’s also home to a replica of the original roadhouse and informative murals depicting the area’s history. Golf enthusiasts can play the “Dingos Den” hole of the Nullarbor Links here, making it a multifaceted stop on the journey.

7. Underground Wonders: Caves and Blowholes

The Nullarbor Plain’s limestone foundation has given rise to a network of caves and blowholes. While some caves require venturing off the main road, travelers can easily visit the Caiguna Blowhole. This natural phenomenon “breathes” as air pressure equalizes between the underground caverns and the surface, offering a unique sensory experience.

8. Stargazing in the Vast Nullarbor Sky

As night falls on the Nullarbor Plain, travellers are treated to an unforgettable celestial display. The vast, unobstructed sky reveals countless stars, offering a spectacular natural light show. Many visitors find that stargazing on the Nullarbor is an awe-inspiring experience that puts the journey into perspective.

9. Iconic road signs and photo opportunities

Throughout the Nullarbor Plain journey, travellers will encounter numerous iconic road signs. From warnings about wildlife to indicators of the famous 90 Mile Straight, these signs have become popular photo spots. Capturing these moments adds a fun, documentary aspect to the road trip experience.

10. Wildlife encounters on the Nullarbor

While driving across the Nullarbor Plain, keep an eye out for native wildlife. Kangaroos, emus, and wedge-tailed eagles are common sights. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for wildlife spotting, but always drive cautiously, especially during these peak animal activity periods.

Embracing the Nullarbor Experience

Traveling across the Nullarbor Plain is more than just a long drive; it’s an adventure that showcases the raw beauty of the Australian landscape. From the towering Bunda Cliffs to the starry night skies, each experience along the way contributes to an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a unique road trip, the Nullarbor Plain offers something for everyone.

As you plan your Nullarbor adventure, remember that the journey itself is just as important as the destination. Embrace the vastness, appreciate the subtle changes in scenery, and take the time to explore the hidden gems along this iconic Australian route. The Nullarbor Plain may have once been described as a “blot on the face of nature,” but today, it stands as a symbol of the diverse and captivating beauty of the Australian outback.

Frequently Asked Questions

While the Bunda Cliffs and whale watching spots are popular, lesser-known attractions include the Balladonia Museum, which houses debris from the Skylab space station, and the ancient Eucalyptus forest near Cocklebiddy.

Preparation is key. Travellers should carry extra fuel, water, and food. It’s also advisable to have a basic vehicle repair kit and to inform someone of your travel plans before setting off.

Summer (December-February) can be extremely hot, while winter (June-August) brings cooler temperatures and the whale watching season. Spring (September-November) often showcases wildflowers blooming across the plain.

Conservation efforts include protecting native wildlife habitats, managing feral animal populations, and preserving the delicate cave ecosystems. Travellers can contribute by adhering to Leave No Trace principles.

The Nullarbor has been home to Indigenous Australian peoples for thousands of years, including the Mirning and Wirangu peoples. Many local place names and landmarks have significant cultural meanings.

The Nullarbor is home to unique species like the Nullarbor quandong tree, the southern hairy-nosed wombat, and the Nullarbor cave gudgeon fish found in underground caves.

The sealing of the Eyre Highway in 1976 dramatically changed travel across the Nullarbor. Today’s journey is much more comfortable than the challenging expeditions of early explorers like Edward John Eyre.

The Nullarbor is the world’s largest single exposure of limestone bedrock, formed from an ancient seabed. This unique geology has led to the formation of its extensive cave systems and blowholes.

Respect for the land and its people is crucial. This includes acknowledging Indigenous land ownership, being mindful of water usage in this arid region, and always asking permission before photographing people or entering private property.

Supporting local businesses by staying at roadhouses, buying local produce, and engaging with community-run attractions helps sustain these remote communities. Many also offer unique local products that make great souvenirs.