How do I get to Whalers Way, South Australia?

Whalers Way on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula offers spectacular caves, blowholes and coastal scenery. But it’s on private land, and a permit is required to get to Whalers Way.

Where is Whalers Way

Whalers Way on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula is the sort of place that feels like it should be a national park or state conservation park.

This chunk of land at the southern tip of the Eyre Peninsula offers some of Australia’s most spectacular coastal scenery. There are high cliffs, golden beaches, caves and blowholes to enjoy. But Whalers Way is on privately-owned land 32km south-west of Port Lincoln, and it is simply not promoted for tourism.

There are several unsealed tracks across the property, most of which are suitable for conventional vehicles.

Port Lincoln experiences to book in advance

Coffin Bay day tour, with oyster tasting.
Eyre Peninsula scenery, food and wine-tasting trip.
Sunset sand dunes photography tour.
Electric mountain bike rental.
Wildlife-focused full day tour.

Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex

Matters are complicated considerably by the addition of the Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex, a new addition to the property. This rocket launch complex has made its initial successful rocket launches, and seems like it will be staying. Public access to Whalers Way is shut off completely during rocket launches.

Assuming big rockets aren’t being fired up into space, how do you get to Whalers Way? Well, access is by special permit only.

How to get to Whalers Way, South Australia

To get a Whalers Way entry permit, you need to either book online via the City of Port Lincoln website or in person at the Port Lincoln Visitor Information Centre. Permits cost $40 and are limited to a specific date. Access to Whalers Way includes one night of camping on the property.

If you book Whalers Way online, you’ll be given an access code. Book at the Port Lincoln Visitor Information Centre, and you need to pay a $20 cash deposit for a key.