Coffin Bay, SA
In contrast to many of the other seaside destinations across South Australia, the township of Coffin Bay is largely undeveloped. The caravan park is one of few services in town, accompanied by two general stores, a pub, ATM, grog shop, fuel, takeaway and few other establishments. There’s not even a supermarket or shopping centre.
THINGS TO DO
Coffin Bay is a town well known for its fresh, beautiful seafood, particularly its oysters. Pacific oysters are renowned for their fresh, clean taste while the native Angasi oyster has a much stronger flavour. To sample fresh produce, head to Pure Coffin Bay Oysters in Martindale Street, which sells direct to the public.
The Oyster Walk is a good starting point for any visit to Coffin Bay. The 12km walking trail skirts along the foreshore to admire the water views, the native flora and historical sights. From the old oyster town in Kellidie Bay, the trail heads west, past the township’s main jetty and on to Long Beach. There are a number of rest points along the way and interpretive signage to explain the various points of interest.
COFFIN BAY NATIONAL PARK
There is plenty to see and do in the national park. Not far past the registration station is Templetonia Lookout, which provides 360-degree views – the Almonta Beach dunes and islands to the south and Yangie Bay and Mount Dutton to the north. Opposite the lookout is access to Gunyah Beach. A conventional vehicle can venture along the unsealed track to the dunes, leaving 4WD vehicles to complete the journey to the beach following the red markers through the dunes.
Back on the bitumen, the sealed access turns south for the lookout at Point Avoid, where rugged clifftops overlook the neighbouring islands. Foot access is available to Almonta Beach, which is a beautiful beach to explore and popular for fishermen chasing salmon.
FAST FACTS
Getting there
Coffin Bay is 700km or just over eight hours’ drive from Adelaide.
The Sea SA ferry runs from Wallaroo to Cowell across the Spencer Gulf, reducing travel time by a handy three hours.
Activities
- Coffin Bay Oyster walk
- Discovering the beauty of Almonta Beach on foot
- Gunyah Beach fishing and dunes drive
- Exploring the far reaches of the national park by 4WD
- Day trip to Lincoln National Park
- Various bush walks within the national parks
More info
The national park is one of few remaining parks that allow self-registration at the gate. You still have to remember to bring cash of the correct dominations, although with fees pegged at $10 for vehicle entry and a further $10/day camping, it’s not too hard to manage.
Park maps are available on your mobile at www.pdf-maps.com.
Accommodation
In prime position opposite the beach, on a large grassy plot, is the Coffin Bay Caravan Park, offering all the usual facilities, including hot water, flushing toilets, barbeques, shade, power, sullage and more. Outside of the peak Christmas period, it’s a peaceful place to be, particularly in the late afternoon when the roos come out to graze.
