Elliston: Coastal Views, Jetty and Stories

Elliston sits on the shores of Waterloo Bay. The different sides of the town can help you plan your stay: coastal trails and lookouts, the jetty and traces of history. If you’re looking for a hotel in Elliston, you can shape your travel plans around whether you’re most interested in hiking, experiencing the coast or learning about the town’s history.

Waterloo Bay, Jetty and Lookouts

Fishing, swimming, surfing and bushwalking are all recommended in Elliston. The Elliston Jetty is 424 metres long and is suitable for walking and fishing. Its heritage-listed construction is remarkable: steel piles were screwed directly into the seabed using a horse-drawn winch. Its length, uses and construction each give the jetty a distinctive appeal—as a place by the water and as an example of unusual engineering.

Waterloo Bay Lookout is on the Flinders Highway along the Coastal Trail, near the jetty. From there, you can see Waterloo Bay, the jetty and the community of Elliston. The surrounding farmland is also in view. There is also a picnic and barbecue area and a pontoon for swimming on the shores of Waterloo Bay. Check the condition of these facilities before your visit.

Coastal Routes and Loop Trails

The Elliston Coastal Trail is 13.6 kilometres long and follows the cliff-lined coast between Little Bay Surf Break and Cape Finniss. The route is intended for hiking and driving. You can choose the full trail or shorter sections: Little Bay Trail, Cliff Top Trail or Beach Loop. The surface is sealed throughout; trail conditions may vary seasonally. Choose an option based on how many days you have available.

Elliston also has two scenic loop trails along the cliffs. From the lookout on the Little Bay Cliff Top Loop, you can see the Top Gallant Isles, Flinders Island, Pearson Island, part of Waldegrave Island, Bird Rock, Waterloo Bay, Elliston and the surrounding farmland. The Anxious Bay Cliff Top Loop offers views of Anxious Bay, the islands and the Blacks surf spot; sculptures stand along the cliffs. The two routes therefore highlight different viewpoints and coastal features.

Culture and History in Elliston

The mural at Elliston Community Hall depicts life in Elliston and draws on its maritime and agricultural heritage. The Recognition Sculpture stands on the cliff overlooking Little Bay Surf Break. It offers a place to sit and reflect on the spirit of reconciliation. Elliston Cemetery provides insight into the town’s history and the lives of the people who came to the west coast to start anew.

Another example of regional heritage lies 22 kilometres south of Elliston: an excellent example of dry-stone masonry is located at a roadside rest area near the Tungatta Lakes. This detour adds a structure in the surrounding area to the cultural sights in town.

Events and Practical Information

The Australian Salmon Fishing Championship takes place every year from 1 June to 31 August and is run by the Elliston Community & Visitor Information Centre. Check the details for the relevant year before visiting. The information centre provides information and services for Elliston and the wider region.

For more leisure options, Elliston has the Trudinger Park Playground and Skatepark, with a barbecue area and play equipment. The Elliston Sports Centre lends tennis racquets for year-round tennis; golf clubs for a round of golf can be borrowed during the winter months. Check the availability of loan equipment and the condition of recreational facilities locally.

The easiest way to reach Elliston is by car. The town also has a weatherproof airstrip suitable for small aircraft. If you’re considering flying, check the operational details independently in advance.

Discover more destinations: Talia.

For the main travel overview: District Council of Elliston.