Welcome to Whyalla, a true hidden gem nestled on the shores of South Australia’s spectacular Spencer Gulf. An important steel city with industrial roots, this unassuming destination is full of surprises with plenty of stories to tell. Boasting a warm climate, gorgeous coastline and breathtaking natural scenery, Whyalla is a buzzing coastal town with so much to offer visitors. Get ready to discover the beautiful Eyre Peninsula with Hertz, as we explore all the best that this bustling seaside destination has to offer.
South Australia’s Best Kept Secret
After picking up your Hertz rental car, head into downtown Whyalla to get yourself acquainted with the city and its character. Here you'll discover an abundance of museums, galleries and historic sites to explore. First up, treat yourself to some local bites at Whisk Away, right in the heart of town. Not only do they serve up excellent coffee, their delicious seasonal breakfast and lunch menu is a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. After satisfying your cravings, discover some of the region’s local history with a visit to the Whyalla Maritime Museum. Learn about the rich history of the area including Aboriginal histories, and the region’s deep ties to the sea throughout the 20th century. One of the more unique elements of this museum is the shipyard gallery, where you’ll get a glimpse into a bygone era of shipbuilding in Whyalla. If you enjoy your history, don’t miss a visit to Mount Laura Homestead Museum in the heart of town. This early 20th century homestead and heritage complex is packed with artefacts and exhibitions on Whyalla’s colonial history.
After spending some time exploring the town centre, stroll down to the Whyalla foreshore, where you’ll discover what makes this town so special. Pristine white beaches meet crystal clear waters, making for a picture-perfect setting. Take a stroll along the waterfront, stopping by at the iconic and distinctively shaped Whyalla Jetty to take in the view. Keep an eye out for the resident dolphins who love to play in the waters just off the Whyalla Foreshore Beach. Keen anglers will feel right at home, with the jetty and rock wall being some of the most popular fishing spots, always bustling with activity.
As the sun dips low on the horizon, one of the best places to catch a gorgeous sunset in Whyalla is from Hummock Hill. This popular and short walk takes you to the highest point in town, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the town and its impressive steelworks, over the Spencer Gulf, all the way out to the Flinders Ranges in the distance. If you’re staying locally, you’ll want to make your way back to Whyalla Playford Apartments, right in town. These top-rated apartments are the perfect luxury option for your time in Whyalla, located only minutes away from the foreshore, as well as dining, shopping and amenities in town. For a delicious dinner highlighting fresh local seafood and produce, Percy’s on Playford is a top-rated restaurant in town, specialising in high quality, modern Australian cuisine.
Discover the beauty of the Eyre Peninsula
Whyalla is on the doorstep of some of the state’s most spectacular coastal scenery stretching all up and down the Spencer Gulf. Adventuring beyond the limits of the city is where you’ll find some truly special and goegrous landscapes just waiting to be explored in your Hertz rental car. A short drive from Whyalla is the sleepy town of Point Lowly, home to some of Australia’s best diving and snorkelling experiences. Experience an underwater wonderland as you float through crystal clear waters teeming with marine life and colourful corals. Between May and August, the waters off Point Lowly set the stage for the largest aggregation of cuttlefish in the world, during cuttlefish breeding season, a unique and stunning sight which draws tourists from across the globe. If jumping straight in the sea isn’t your cup of tea, a leisurely boat ride might be more your style. Head out on the water with Cutty’s Glass Bottom Boat Tours and enjoy this magnificent phenomenon up close and personal, from the comfort of your covered boat.
Point Lowly is home to a historically significant and heritage-listed lighthouse which has been protecting the seas since 1883. The lighthouse as well as two keepers’ cottages make an extraordinary backdrop for your holiday snapshots, especially at dusk or dawn. If you’re simply after a relaxing coastal getaway, soak up the sun and sand on some of the region’s most pristine beaches. Outside of Whyalla, Point Lowly Beach is a top contender for the most beautiful beach, however you’ll find equally stunning stretches of secluded white sand at Fitzgerald Bay, Murippi Beach and Lucky Bay. Whichever way you decide to spend your time on the Eyre Peninsula, you’ll be sure to find your very own slice of paradise in this stunning corner of the state.
Whyalla is an unassuming yet charming coastal town that is just waiting to be uncovered. With its remarkable natural scenery, pristine coastline and friendly local faces, these contrasts are what make Whyalla and the Eyre Peninsula such an enchanting destination.
