Whyalla Jetty: Why visit South Australia’s circular jetty?

The new Whyalla Jetty’s unusual circular shape has made it an Eyre Peninsula tourist attraction. The fishing is good, but jetty jumping is dangerous.

The Whyalla Jetty in Whyalla, South Australia, is pretty unusual. And its distinctive circular shape has made it a tourist attraction in a town otherwise known for its heavy industry.

Whyalla is on the eastern coast of the Eyre Peninsula. You’ll pass through on the drive from Adelaide to Port Lincoln.

When did the new Whyalla Jetty open?

The Whyalla Jetty opened in September 2020, and it is 315 metres long. It’s the shape rather than the length that makes it stand out, however. There’s a massive circular section in the middle.

The Whyalla Jetty is supported by 102 pylons and is lit up at night, which tends to be the best time to visit.

This new South Australian jetty is also set up for disabled access, with six locations along the jetty edge specially set up along the edge for the disabled and children to fish from.

Whyalla Jetty in Whyalla, South Australia, stands out because of its circular design. Photo by Isaac Forman.

Fishing and jetty jumping at Whyalla Jetty

Fishing is the best thing to do from the jetty, especially given that jumping from it is strongly discouraged. The new jetty is 1.5 metres higher than the previous incarnation, and the water underneath can be surprisingly shallow. Jumping from the Whyalla Jetty carries the risk of serious injury and it should not be attempted.

So why is there a circle in the middle of the jetty? What’s the logic behind the design chance? Well, there’s no practical purpose – it simply looked cool and was popular with the local public.

For more information, visit the Whyalla City Council website.

Other things to do in Whyalla including taking a tour of the Whyalla Steelworks.