Imagine driving on a road that is almost endlessly straight, surrounded by stretches of red earth and shrubs as far as the eye can see, with an endless blue sky above. That is the Nullarbor Plain, one of the most epic roadtrip experiences on earth that must be on every adventure lover’s bucket list. For those who want to explore Australian tourism across Sydney and Melbourne, this is the answer.
What Is the Nullarbor Plain?
The Nullarbor Plain is a limestone plateau that stretches more than 1,200 kilometers along the southern coast of Australia, crossing two states, South Australia and Western Australia. The name Nullarbor comes from the Latin words nullus arbor which mean "no trees," and you will truly understand the meaning when driving here. This plain is one of the largest expanses of flat land in the world.
Main Route: Perth to Adelaide via the Eyre Highway
The Perth to Adelaide route via the Eyre Highway Australia stretches for 2,695 kilometers and this is the only paved road connecting Western Australia with South Australia.
Technically, the Eyre Highway begins from Port Augusta in the east, but the most iconic section stretches from Ceduna (SA) to Norseman (WA), around 1,200 kilometers which is referred to as "the Nullarbor". The full journey is ideally completed in 7–10 days so you have enough time to stop and enjoy everything hidden along the route.
The Longest Straight Road in the World “90 Mile Straight”
The longest straight road in the world that you can find on the Eyre Highway Australia is the section between Balladonia and Caiguna, which stretches for 146.6 kilometers without a single bend. The name 90 Mile Straight has become legendary among world travelers. This is where you will feel the sensation of driving on a road that seems to never end, with the horizon merging with the asphalt that appears to shimmer in the distance due to the heat.
The Best Views Along the Nullarbor Route
Bunda Cliffs and the Great Australian Bight
Head of Bight Whale Watching Centre
If visiting between June–September, do not miss Head of Bight, the official whale watching center that directly faces the ocean where hundreds of southern right whales gather to give birth and raise their calves. From the platform on the cliff edge, you can see whales playing, breaching, and nursing their calves from a close distance without needing to board a boat. An entrance fee is charged, but the experience is well worth it.
Eucla and the White Sands of Madura Pass
Eucla is the largest settlement along the Nullarbor Plain and becomes an interesting geographical point. This is where the road descends through Madura Pass from the Nullarbor plateau toward Roe Plains with views of cliffs and vast plains. Near Eucla there are the ruins of a 19th-century telegraph station half buried in white sand—one of the most iconic photo spots on this route.
Nullarbor Roadhouse
In the middle of the vast emptiness of Nullarbor, Nullarbor Roadhouse feels like an oasis. Not just a gas station, here you can refuel, eat, stay overnight, and even play golf. This place is part of the Nullarbor Links, the longest golf course in the world that stretches 1,365 km from Ceduna to Kalgoorlie. The distance signboard to cities around the world in front of it is also a favorite photo spot for travelers.
Caiguna Blowhole
Caiguna Blowhole and Campsite - WeExplore Australia & the World
Hidden not far from the main road, Caiguna Blowhole is a unique geological phenomenon. The underground cave system beneath the Nullarbor Plain is directly connected to the cliffs on the ocean edge, creating a “breathing” effect where air moves in and out through this hole following changes in wind pressure from the Southern Ocean. The temperature inside the cave is very cold even though it is scorching outside, making it a perfect place to take a short break from the heat.
The Best Time for a Nullarbor Roadtrip
Choose the right time so your roadtrip experience is maximized!
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April – October → the best time overall, with friendly temperatures between 15–25°C during the day
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December – February → avoid! Temperatures can exceed 40°C, dangerous for vehicles and passengers
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June – September → the best time to see southern right whales in the Great Australian Bight
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March – May → cool autumn season, quieter roads, suitable for those who want a calmer atmosphere
- August – October → spring season, grasslands start turning green and wildflowers bloom along the route
Essential Preparations Before Starting the Roadtrip
Touring Australia via Nullarbor requires more preparation than a regular trip — this is not a journey that can be done spontaneously!
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Fuel: Fill the tank every time you have the chance. The distance between gas stations (roadhouses) can reach 200 kilometers
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Drinking water: Bring at least 10 liters of water per person as an emergency reserve
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Emergency communication: Mobile signal is almost nonexistent for more than 1,100 km of this route. Rent or buy an EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) or a satellite phone
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Vehicle: A 4WD is not required because the Eyre Highway Australia is fully paved, but make sure the vehicle is in prime condition and a spare tire is available
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Driving at night: Avoid after dark — kangaroos, wombats, and wild camels often cross the road at night
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Quarantine: There are strict checkpoints at the SA–WA border. Fresh fruit, vegetables, and honey are prohibited from crossing state borders
- Accommodation: Book roadhouses well in advance, especially during the busy season — some only have a few rooms
Stay Connected During Your Australia Roadtrip
The signal is indeed almost nonexistent along Nullarbor, but in the cities before and after the route—Perth, Norseman, Ceduna, and Adelaide—you will still need an internet connection for navigation, booking accommodation, and communication. Use the Australia New Zealand eSIM from Global Komunika before departure so you can connect immediately upon landing in Australia, without needing to queue to buy a SIM card at the airport.
Ready to Conquer Nullarbor?
A Nullarbor roadtrip is not a journey for everyone, but for those who do it, it is an unforgettable Australian travel experience. From the longest straight road in the world that makes you feel like you are on another planet, to the dramatic cliffs of the Great Australian Bight and the giant whales dancing beneath them, the Nullarbor Plain holds wonders that go far beyond its reputation as a “boring road.”
