Whyalla to Cowell: Steel, Sea, and Small-Town Charm
We didn’t expect to fall for Whyalla, but this coastal city turned out to be full of surprises.
Our first stop was the town’s most iconic feature: the circular jetty. It arcs gracefully over the water, offering a unique vantage point back toward the coastline. With gulls overhead and gentle waves below, it’s an easy spot to lose an hour just soaking up the view (and snapping a few too many photos).
We booked a tour of the Whyalla Steelworks, and honestly, it was fascinating. Heavy industry might not be everyone’s thing, but watching red-hot steel being poured and learning how the mill operates gave us a new appreciation for what powers this town. The guides were full of insight and local pride, which made the experience even better.
One morning, we jumped on the motorbikes and took a ride out to Point Lowly Lighthouse. The road hugs the coastline, with sweeping sea views and barely another soul in sight. The lighthouse itself is a beauty, stark white against blue sky. The perfect place to stretch the legs and watch the waves roll in. The ride back was pure freedom, salty air and all.
We did make a stop at the beaches near Point Lowly, hoping to spot the famous giant cuttlefish that migrate here each year, but sadly, we were a bit too early. The season hadn’t quite kicked off, so the water remained quiet. Still, it’s just another reason to come back. Swimming alongside those incredible creatures is firmly on our bucket list.
Next, we climbed aboard the HMAS Whyalla, a World War II-era corvette turned museum ship. Moored on dry land, this restored beauty gave us a glimpse into naval life. From the cramped sleeping quarters to the engine room, it was a hands-on step into maritime history. Afterwards, we popped across to the Mt Laura Homestead Museum, a collection of heritage buildings that helped fill in the picture of Whyalla’s early years.
From Whyalla, we pointed the moho south and rolled into Cowell. It’s a quiet fishing town, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm. The silo art is a standout, and the locals know how to cook a mean seafood lunch. We popped into the CWA shop after lunch and this is where Neil first started his love afair, and contact search for the best, Chilli Jam
Coastal industry, naval heritage, two wheels and windswept views, this stretch of the Eyre Peninsula gave us more than we bargained for in the best way.
If you love these off-route stories, join our Travel Dispatch — it’s where we share the good bits between the maps.
Whyalla & Cowell
Two towns, one easy drive along South Australia’s eastern Eyre Peninsula. Whyalla’s steel and sea story meets Cowell’s coastal calm. A mix of history, heritage, and simple pleasures.
How to Get There
Follow the Lincoln Highway south from Port Augusta. Whyalla is around 75 km from Port Augusta, with Cowell another 100 km further south. The route is fully sealed and perfect for caravans and motorhomes.
What to See, Tours and Activities
What we did:
Walked the Whyalla Circular Jetty.
Joined a Whyalla Steelworks tour.
Rode the bikes out to Point Lowly Lighthouse.
Toured the HMAS Whyalla and Mt Laura Homestead Museum.
Stopped at Cowell for silo art and seafood lunch.
Other highlights you might explore:
Snorkel or dive with giant cuttlefish (May–August).
Visit the Whyalla Maritime Museum for more local history.
Walk the Cowell Foreshore Trail.
Take a short drive inland to Lucky Bay for camping and coastal views.
When to Visit
Late autumn to early spring (April–October) offers mild weather and the best chance to see the giant cuttlefish. Summers can be hot and windy.
Final Thoughts
From steelworks to salt air, Whyalla and Cowell show two sides of South Australia’s coast — one industrious, one peaceful, both worth the stop. Sometimes it’s the unexpected mix that makes the best memories.
What’s Nearby
Heading north leads back to Port Augusta and the start of the Outback. Southbound, the Eyre Peninsula continues toward Tumby Bay and Port Lincoln.
Don’t miss our Travel Dispatches — we save the best offbeat finds for those in the know. Sign up here.
Other updates you may like…
Fast Facts
Location: Whyalla & Cowell, Eyre Peninsula, South Australia
Distance: Whyalla – 580 km west of Adelaide; Cowell – 680 km west of Adelaide
Traditional Owners: Barngarla People
Access: Fully sealed via Lincoln Highway
Facilities: Fuel, shops, caravan parks, museums, cafés, boat ramps, walking trails
Walking Track: Whyalla Foreshore Walk, Cowell Foreshore Trail
Dog Friendly: Permitted in town areas and campgrounds (on leash)
Best Time to Visit: April – October
Things That Could Kill You (Probably Won’t)
A semi-serious guide to surviving Australia. Mostly common sense, occasionally luck.
Giant Cuttlefish: Only dangerous if you lose your waterproof camera!
Steelworks Heat: Respect the high-vis. And the molten metal.
Seagulls at Cowell: They look harmless. They’re not. Protect your chips.
With just one day in Adelaide, we crammed in all our favourites! Art, museums, botanic gardens and a market dash. North Terrace delivered its usual magic, reminding us why this city always feels good to return to.