Things To Do in Port Lincoln

Port Lincoln proudly designates itself as the “Seafood Capital of Australia,” a title that likely holds accuracy. Here’s a guide to the optimal activities in Port Lincoln to ensure your trip is exceptional.
Situated at the base of the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia, Port Lincoln benefits from its proximity to the immaculate Southern Ocean and abundant yield.
Boasting delectable seafood, thrilling adventures, and breathtaking landscapes, Port Lincoln is an excellent destination for exploration and is a must-visit in South Australia.

Reaching Port Lincoln via Air

Port Lincoln boasts its airport with frequent flights from Adelaide operated by Rex and Qantaslink. Due to the current unpredictability of air travel, it’s advisable to review flight schedules meticulously, as they might change.
You can find Port Lincoln’s airport situated to the city’s north, toward Tumby Bay.

Journey to Port Lincoln by Bus

Regular bus services connect Adelaide to Port Lincoln. Before the COVID restrictions, daily buses were available. However, the present schedule limits this to thrice weekly in both directions.
To stay updated on the latest timings and fares, visit the Stateline website, as these details might fluctuate.

Shark-cage diving

Port Lincoln holds the distinction of being the sole location in Australia where you can cage dive with great white sharks. This activity is not only the most sought-after among Port Lincoln attractions but also stands out among adventure activities in the region. It is considered one of the finest experiences on the Eyre Peninsula and throughout South Australia.
Often, this activity is the primary motivator for planning a holiday to Port Lincoln.
On my visit, I took a shark cage tour with a company that has since changed ownership.
The excursion is extensive, taking three hours to reach theWayptune Islands, the favoured locale of the great white sharks.
Witnessing these sharks in their natural habitat is an awe-inspiring experience.
Rodney Fox shark expeditions offer extended shark cage diving tours that provide more time to explore the vicinity of Neptune Island vicinity.
Winter tours tend to be lengthier to accommodate potential inclement weather and include additional activities such as diving with giant cuttlefish.

About Port Lincoln, South Australia

Port Lincoln, occasionally misspelled as Port Lincon, ranks South Australia’s ninth-largest city, with around 14,000 residents, and is a must-visit on the Eyre Peninsula.
The city serves as a focal point for the state’s fishing industry, and possibly the nation’s, with numerous fortunes made from fishing. Consequently, it boasts the highest concentration of millionaires per capita in Australia.
The port in Port Lincoln underpins the city’s industry, handling seafood, grain, mining products, and wool. It’s gaining popularity as a cruise ship destination and is a highlight of the Eyre Peninsula Seafood Trail.
The indigenous Barngarla people, who refer to the area as Kallinyalla (pronounced Galinyalla), are the traditional custodians of the land.
Matthew Flinders, the first European to arrive in 1902, named Port Lincoln, drawing inspiration from his native Lincolnshire in England, narrowly preceding French explorer Nicolas Baudin.
The weather in Port Lincoln is quite diverse, with four distinct seasons. Winters are cool and windy, while summers can reach around 35 degrees Celsius. However, fluctuations are common.
The optimal time to explore Port Lincoln is contingent upon personal preferences. Spring or autumn visits usually offer mild weather and numerous activities, including swimming with sea lions or sharks and visiting Mikkira Station.
Port Lincoln has been showcased in TV series such as the first season of Australian Survivor, a segment of Amazing Race Australia 2023, and Discovery Channel’s Tuna Wranglers and Abalone Wars.

Sea Lions

Engaging in a swim with Australian Sea Lions ranks among the top attractions in Port Lincoln. Although I haven’t experienced this myself, having had to choose between sharks and sea lions, the same companies that organize shark cage diving also offer these tours.
The half-day expedition journey to Seal Cove, where participants can swim alongside the playful sea lions, often referred to as the “puppies of the sea”. I am eager to partake in this experience on my next visit to Port Lincoln.

Embark on a Scenic Flight

Witness the breathtaking views of Port Lincoln and its striking coastline from above with a scenic flight provided by Lincoln Air Charter. You can select from their predefined local scenic routes, or they can customize a flight specifically tailored to your preferences.
Packages are also available, offering combinations such as a flight with a Coffin Bay oyster farm tour, a flight over Lake Gairdner followed by lunch in Wudinna, or even an overnight stay on Flinders Island.

Listen to Fishing Tales on Fred's Marina Cruise

Fred’s Marina Cruise is a 90-minute journey around Port Lincoln’s marina, led by a local who has observed the city’s fishing industry’s transformation over four decades.
He navigates an eco-friendly electric boat, sharing tales of trials, tribulations, and phenomenal successes. The tour departs daily at 2 p.m. from the pontoon outside the Marina Hotel. Tickets can be booked at the Port Lincoln Visitor Information Centre.

Reaching Port Lincoln and Eyre Peninsula

Port Lincoln is an ideal starting point for exploring the Eyre Peninsula, particularly its southern half. While the straight-line distance from Adelaide to Port Lincoln is approximately 280km, the road journey spans 650km and takes about 7 hours, assuming minimal stops en route.
If you intend to complete the entire drive in a single day, it’s wise to allocate an additional hour or two for adequate rest breaks.
Alternatively, you can split the journey by driving from Adelaide to Port Augusta on the first day and then continuing to Port Lincoln the following day. This approach allows ample time for a leisurely trip and visits to quaint coastal towns.
Contrary to some information, there isn’t a direct ferry from Adelaide to Port Lincoln. However, a viable alternative is to drive to Wallaroo and take the Spencer Gulf Searoad car ferry to Lucky Bay. While this option reduces the driving distance, the travel time remains unchanged as the ferry ride lasts 2.5 hours, and early check-in is necessary.
For travellers approaching from the west, the journey from Streaky Bay to Port Lincoln is shy of 300km and takes roughly three hours, excluding stops.
Utilizing a car is the preferred method to reach Port Lincoln as it facilitates convenient travel during your stay. Car rental options are available in Port Lincoln, but it’s prudent to evaluate your plans before choosing a vehicle, considering that some locales necessitate a 4WD or AWD for access.

Embark on a Fishing Adventure!

It’s surprising to have come this far in the list without bringing up an evident activity in the Seafood Capital of Australia: fishing!
Numerous fishing opportunities abound, from casual line fishing at the Port Lincoln jetty, seeking a beach spot, hiring a boat for the day, and joining a fishing charter for larger catches. Regardless of the choice, you’re likely to have a plentiful haul for dinner.

Discover at the Axel Stenross Maritime Museum

Port Lincoln hosts several museums that offer insightful overviews of the region’s history. Notable recommendations include:
Axel Stenross Maritime Museum
Port Lincoln Railway Museum
Mill Cottage Museum
Port Lincoln RSL Museum
Additionally, the Koppio Smithy Museum in the small town of Koppio, situated about 40km north of Port Lincoln, and the Mt Dutton Bay Woolshed Museum & Cafe near Coffin Bay are worth visiting.

Immerse Yourself in Shopping at Port Lincoln

While I don’t usually gravitate towards shopping, I was enticed by the captivating and one-of-a-kind shops situated on the main shopping avenues of Port Lincoln’s central district. Envision charming boutiques, trendy home decor, and my top pick, an expansive secondhand bookstore (The Book Bazaar).
Visitors can schedule a tranquil spa session or select a memorable jewellery from Port Lincoln’s shops as a keepsake. The retail offerings in Port Lincoln outshine those in many other rural towns.

Racehorse Makybe Diva

A statue of a horse, Makybe Diva, graces the foreshore of Port Lincoln. Depending on whom you consult, she is often regarded as one of Australia’s finest racehorses.
Makybe Diva triumphed in Australia’s premier race, the Melbourne Cup, three times consecutively and still maintains the record for the most prize money won by an individual horse.
Her commemoration here is due to her owner, Port Lincoln’s tuna magnate Tony Santic. She became an adored “daughter” of the town during her prime. Visiting this statue is a must-do in Port Lincoln!
A suggestion: for a splendid photo of Makybe Diva, aim to visit in the afternoon when the sun is favourably positioned.

Koalas at Mikkira Station

Mikkira Station emerged as an unexpected activity in Port Lincoln. The existence of wild koalas in the area was a surprise, and I initially found limited information.
Once there, the station is charmingly simple. Following the road to its end, we parked near the restroom facilities. A sign indicates a historical walk, but koalas, the main attraction, aren’t explicitly mentioned.
The station harbours a wild colony of koalas amidst Manna Gums. During our visit, koalas were casually lounging in trees. We spent an hour observing the koalas and then explored the giant yuccas.
While not lodging overnight, Mikkira Station seems ideal for camping, with “glamper campers” available for those without their accommodations. There are restroom facilities, and camping costs are equivalent to a day pass.
Mikkira Station welcomes visitors during winter but closes in summer due to bushfire risks. However, organized tours are an option.

Savor the Local Wines

Though Port Lincoln isn’t officially recognized as one of South Australia’s 18 wine regions, a handful of vineyards have begun emerging recently, with four wineries currently crafting their wines.
Boston Bay Wines possesses vineyards just north of Port Lincoln and asserts being the world’s nearest vineyards to the sea. While the veracity of this claim is uncertain, only a highway separates their vines from the beach. They operate a cellar door, offering tastings daily, accompanied by a restaurant that overlooks the vines and Boston Bay, allowing patrons to relish lunch with their wine.
Lincoln Estate Wines, managed by the family overseeing Glen Forest Tourist Park, offers tastings at their combined cellar door, ticket office, and gift shop.
Peter Teakle Wines features an elegant cellar door where guests can sample award-winning wines, including Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay. The estate also hosts an on-site restaurant, The Line & Label, serving seasonal dishes to complement their wines. Open for lunch on weekends and dinner from Thursday to Sunday, The Line & Label ensures a pleasant dining experience in a stunning ambience.
Gardner’s Vineyard is situated slightly north of Port Lincoln, near Tumby Bay. This family-run Vineyard produces a modest quantity of grapes annually, offering wines such as Riesling, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Shiraz. Notably, some wines available for tasting are 8-10 years old and are priced reasonably, a strategy seemingly successful for them. The cellar door, established in 2021, welcomes visitors for tastings daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
All the wines were found to be commendable, with several bottles purchased from each winery.

Explore Port Lincoln on an E-bike

I’ve recently discovered the joy of exploring on an e-bike. Traditional bikes can sometimes feel cumbersome, but e-bikes make it a breeze to cover more ground than walking in the same period.
In Port Lincoln, you can rent electric mountain bikes, perfect for touring all the attractions within the city or adventuring into Lincoln and Coffin Bay national parks.

Savor the Local Produce

Port Lincoln has emerged as a centre for small enterprises creating exceptional products from locally sourced ingredients. Here’s a selection to sample during your stay. Consider taking these as mementos of your trip or as presents for loved ones.
Beer Garden Brewing: Offers craft beers from grains cultivated on the Eyre Peninsula.
Boston Bean: A specialty coffee house that roasts and grinds its beans. The cafe also serves a delightful chai.
Bush Flower Teas: Provides herbal teas crafted from organic ingredients.
Pope’s Honey: Features several local honey varieties and offers tours to understand the honey-making journey.
Boston Bay Smallgoods: Delivers pork cuts from a local free-range heritage breed pig farm.
The Fresh Fish Place: While fresh fish might not be transportable, pickled and smoked options are available.
If visiting each location is challenging, The Fresh Fish Place and the Port Lincoln Visitor Centre retail various local products.

Discover Lincoln National Park

Situated south of Port Lincoln on the Jussieu Peninsula, Lincoln National Park (occasionally misnamed Port Lincoln National Park) differs slightly from Coffin Bay National Park and Whalers Way.
Although it features a rugged coastline, the peninsula’s other side overlooks the tranquil Boston Bay, ideal for activities like fishing and hiking. Noteworthy dunes adjacent to the coastline offer sandboarding opportunities, with rental options in Port Lincoln.
Lincoln National Park houses the pristine Memory Cove, accessible to only 15 vehicles daily to ensure preservation and only via 4WD. The park is a habitat for the endangered White-Bellied Sea Eagle, with only 240 pairs remaining.
Camping, caravans, and RVs are permitted at several locations within the park, including Memory Cove and September Beach, which also offers glamping tents.
The southern coast of Lincoln National Park overlooks Sleaford Bay, a winter haven for Southern Right Whales. Though outside the park, whales can be viewed from the lookout at Sleaford Bay Road’s end.

The Whaler's Way

Whaler’s Way is an essential attraWayon in Port Lincoln, comprising a 14km scenic drive at the southernmost point of the Eyre Peninsula, showcasing breathtaking limestone cliffs and bays.
Though it’s a driving route, most stops necessitate short walks, ranging from a few meters to 1km, to appreciate the views fully. The astonishing coastline rivals the well-known Great Ocean Road in Victoria. The sheer magnificence of the Southern Ocean is awe-inspiring.
Access to Whaler’s Way, which is on private land, requires a permit at the Port Lincoln Tourism Information Centre. The route comprises dirt roads, and while an AWD/4WD is recommended, a 2WD can suffice. Allocate a whole day to experience all the walks.

Explore Glen Forest Tourist Park

Glen Forest Tourist Park is a favoured destination for families visiting Port Lincoln. The park hosts a variety of animals, including common farm animals and some distinctive Australian natives.
Purchasing a feed bag will make you an instant favourite among the animals. Children are sure to delight in the experience, and adults will likely find joy as well. The sight of baby rabbits, barely larger than mice, is irresistibly endearing.
Beyond the animals, Glen Forest Tourist Park offers a giant wooden maze, a mini-golf course, and Segway tours. BBQ facilities are available for lunch, and adults can sample the farm-produced wine.

Film screening at the Lincoln Cinema

Lincoln Cinema, established in 1929, is a vintage cinema with three screens showcasing new and classic films. Relive the nostalgic cinema experience, ideal for children too, particularly during school vacations. It is a perfect indoor activity in Port Lincoln when the weather is unfavourable.

Admire Views Over Port Lincoln at Winter Hill Lookout ( noy foto )

After indulging in various Port Lincoln activities, pause to relish the landscape. Winter’s Hill Lookout provides a splendid view of Port Lincoln and Boston Bay and is a free attraction. The drive offers inland vistas, and upon reaching the summit, the entire city and bay unfold before you. Another location offering panoramic views of Boston Bay is the Old Mill Lookout, notable as the oldest standing structure in Port Lincoln.

Explore Local Artwork at a Gallery

Wondering what to do in Port Lincoln when the weather is uncooperative? Consider immersing yourself in the local art scene. As you navigate through Port Lincoln, step into a few art galleries to appreciate creations by local artists. Some galleries worth exploring include:
Kuju Aboriginal Arts
Nautilus Art Centre
Quirky Owl Studio and Gallery
Additionally, while not a traditional gallery, visit the Rhapsody In Wood store. Here, artisans craft exquisite wooden maps from sustainable timbers, which are truly remarkable. While maps are their specialty, they also create other items. Purchases are welcome but not obligatory; they appreciate visitors who come to admire their work.

Sample the Local Beverages

Port Lincoln is experiencing a surge in craft breweries and distilleries, with new establishments emerging consistently. During your visit, sample local beverages at these establishments and check their social media for updates:
Beer Garden Brewing
Jump Ship Brewing
West Coast Distilling Co

Discover the Region with a Walking Tour

Arranged at a time that suits your schedule, you can book a walking tour in Port Lincoln or Coffin Bay. Indicate your preferences and a 1-hour tour guided by a local will be tailored to your interests.
The tour might take you along the foreshore in Port Lincoln, acquainting you with the town’s history, or lead you to a pristine environment where breathtaking views and wildlife are abundant.

Explore the Parnkalla Walking Trail

Two significant walking trails intersect through Port Lincoln, following a standard route. The Investigator Trail is a lengthy walk spanning approximately 115km, initiating just north of Port Lincoln and looping around Lincoln National Park.
The first 26km of this trail is also recognized as the Parnkalla Walking Trail, which meanders along the beachfront through Port Lincoln.
Undertaking the entirety of these trials is not mandatory. Opting for sections, we began our walk at The Port Lincoln Hotel and continued around to the grain silos situated along the beachfront.
This particular stretch provides information about area boats, and centrally located in town are the Makybe Diva and Tuna Poler statues.
In Lincoln National Park, we navigated the Surfleet Loop, the initial segment of which is part of the Investigator Trail and, at times, runs right on the sandy beach.
Lincoln National Park also offers numerous shorter trails that incorporate segments of the Investigator Trail. Despite potentially rugged landscapes, the trails are marked.

Explore Port Lincoln Through A Guided Tour

Wondering how to get the best out of Port Lincoln if you’re only here for a day or lack personal transportation? Don’t fret; the Port Lincoln day tours provide an insightful overview and access to prime attractions.
We were taken aback when we spotted the Tasting Eyre bus on Whalers Way. Delving deeper, we discovered that their excursions not only offer breathtaking coastal views but also encompass the Lincoln National Park and Mikkira Station. The package sweetens with a morning tea at the Marina, a hearty lunch at The Fresh Fish Place, and a wine-tasting session at Boston Bay Wines. Sounds like a day well spent!

Experience a Tour at The Fresh Fish Place

Port Lincoln, dubbed the Seafood Capital of Australia, is where indulging in the local cuisine is a must. While it’s nearly impossible to encounter a subpar seafood meal in this town, The Fresh Fish Place stands out as an exceptional spot.
Offering an array of seafood freshly harvested from the ocean within the last 24 hours, The Fresh Fish Place guarantees freshness. We opted for the Fisherman’s Basket to sample a variety, and it could arguably be some of the best fish’n’chips I’ve ever tasted.
Beyond being a restaurant, The Fresh Fish Place also functions as a seafood processing factory, distributing products wholesale nationwide. Curious visitors can partake in tours offered every weekday at 11 a.m., providing insight into the process and including a tasting session.

Go to the beach!

The vicinity boasts many scenic beaches that welcome visitors throughout the year. Among the most frequented and picturesque are Memory Cove in Lincoln National Park, Fishery Bay, Almonte Beach in Coffin Bay National Park, and Sleaford Beach.
The winter season adorns these beaches’ striking landscapes and an ethereal windswept charm. It’s an opportunity to appreciate nature’s grandeur while relishing the solitude these shores offer.
Come summer, these sands turn into hubs for water-based activities. However, exercise caution since these beaches are unpatrolled and situated away from the urban areas.