Eyre Peninsula and the national park on the south end of it are considered by many as one of the most beautiful places in Australia. White sandy beaches, clearest turquoise water and heap of untouched nature plus free oysters, razor fish and abalone if you can find them.
The drive from Port Augusta, over Whyalla down towards Tumby Bay and Port Lincoln is as diverse as it can be in Australia and absolutely worth the detour (approx. 900km return).
After arriving in the national park we decided to stay a few days as its was such a nice place, only to be told by the Ranger to leave first thing in the morning as the day was declared Catastrophic Fire Danger Day. So we left again and had a coffee at the foreshore in Port Lincoln when we heard the news about a huge bush fire west of Port Lincoln. The smoke was clearly visible and we were very happy that we left the NP early in the morning. Everyone down there is fully aware and prepared for these events unlike us, so we were listening to the radio like everyone else and watched the smoke. The wind turned the smoke towards the city and we decided then to drive north before we would be locked in. No houses or life were taken by the fire which was a good outcome. The day after we were back in the National Park and enjoyed a few more relaxing days.
Got to use the SUP from Xtreme Kite and Paddle in Port Lincoln, if you ever head that way drop in the shop from Scott and Jacky as they are cool guys and very helpful. Thanks again Scott for the boards and the Cougar.