Best things to do in Tumby Bay on your next road trip

Best things to do in Tumby Bay on your next road trip

Written by: L'Anse French Café

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Published on

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Time to read 8 min

The essential takeaway: Tumby Bay blends rare marine encounters with vibrant street art, creating an unmissable Eyre Peninsula stopover. Beyond diving for the elusive Leafy Sea Dragon and admiring massive silo murals, this coastal gem offers authentic charm and accessible nature walks, perfectly complementing a road trip to nearby Port Lincoln.

Are you craving a genuine coastal escape where the pace finally slows down? Exploring the relaxed things to do in Tumby Bay reveals a perfect mix of street art and unique marine life. From rare leafy sea dragons to the ultimate spot for your morning flat white, get ready to uncover the region's best-kept secrets.

  1. Start with the Underwater and Oversized Art

  2. Explore the Coastline and Local History

  3. Plan Your Eyre Peninsula Road Trip


Whether you're looking for exhilarating hikes along dramatic cliffs, peaceful woodland walks, or serene moments on white sandy beaches, Lincoln National Park offers unforgettable experiences. The park overlooks Boston Bay, Australia's largest natural harbour, and features iconic spots like Stamford Hill with panoramic views, the wind-sculpted Sleaford-Wanna sand dunes, and locations such as Spalding Cove and Donington Point.


Explore trails for all fitness levels, enjoy camping in designated areas, fish at Sleaford Bay, or encounter wildlife like emus and sea eagles. Entry is free until April 2026, making now the perfect time to discover the Memory Cove Wilderness Protection Area and experience this remarkable destination firsthand.

Start with the Underwater and Oversized Art

Find the Famous Leafy Sea Dragons

Most people assume the Tumby Bay jetty is just for fishing, but they are missing the real show happening right beneath the planks.

I’m talking about the Leafy Sea Dragons. Spotting one is a rare Eyre Peninsula privilege and honestly the main reason serious divers put Tumby Bay on their map.

Grace and Marvin

Look Up at the Massive Silo Art

You can’t list things to do in Tumby Bay without driving over to the Colour Tumby Silo Art in nearby Cummins.


These aren't just paintings; they are giants. The street art scene here has totally changed the vibe of the region. If you want a photo that screams "South Australia road trip," this is exactly where you need to be standing.

  • The massive grain silos in nearby Cummins.

  • Colourful murals scattered.

  • The annual Colour Tumby Street Art Festival (dates vary).

Grace and Marvin

Explore the Coastline and Local History

But the art and marine life are just the start. The real vibe—and one of the best things to do in Tumby Bay—is discovered by walking its coastline and touching its past.

Walk the Mangrove Boardwalk and Jetty

The Tumby Bay Mangrove Boardwalk is an effortless, scenic stroll. It is fully accessible, so you can easily push a stroller or wheelchair through the quiet greenery without any trouble.

Then there is the jetty. It serves as a dive spot, but fishing is the real draw. Casting a line for King George Whiting is a classic local activity you must try.

Step Back in Time at the Museum

The Tumby Bay National Trust Museum acts as a small, genuine time capsule of the region.

It is the kind of authentic spot that tells the pioneer story, far from glossy tourist exhibits. It captures the coastal town's soul. The Koppio Smithy Museum is another historic option nearby if you want more.

  • Relaxing on Ski Beach or Salt Creek Beach.

  • Fishing for King George Whiting from the jetty.

  • Birdwatching along the foreshore trail.

Plan Your Eyre Peninsula Road Trip

Tumby Bay is a killer base, but it’s also the perfect starting point to explore a little further.

Make the Short Drive to Port Lincoln

While ticking off the best things to do in Tumby Bay, don't ignore its neighbor. Port Lincoln is just a 34-minute drive away and totally worth the detour.

It offers a vibrant energy that perfectly complements Tumby’s chill vibe. Trust me, this quick trip pays off.

Your Must-Stop for Brunch

Heading that way? There’s one non-negotiable stop for your caffeine fix. Seriously, do not skip this.

L’ Anse French Café serves authentic flat whites and flaky pastries without the tourist trap feel. It’s the perfect spot to slow down and soak up the local lifestyle.

 Activity Type 

 Best For… 

 Location 

Marine Life Spotting the unique Leafy Sea Dragon Tumby Bay Jetty
Public Art Instagram-worthy giant murals Cummins & Tumby Bay
Coastal Walk Easy and accessible nature stroll Mangrove Boardwalk
Local Brunch Authentic coffee and pastries L’Anse French Café in Port Lincoln

From vibrant silo art to quiet mangrove boardwalks, Tumby Bay offers the perfect slow-travel pace. It’s an essential stop on your Eyre Peninsula road trip to connect with local life. Take your time exploring these hidden gems, then continue south to Port Lincoln to refuel with exceptional coffee and fresh pastries.

FAQ

Is a trip to Tumby Bay actually worth the drive?

Absolutely, especially if you are looking to slow down and escape the usual tourist traps. It is an authentic coastal gem where you can combine unique experiences like spotting the elusive Leafy Sea Dragon under the jetty with viewing world-class street art. It is the kind of place that feels genuine and unhurried.

Beyond the vibe, it serves as a fantastic base for exploring the Eyre Peninsula. You get the quiet charm of a small town while being just a short drive from the culinary delights of Port Lincoln. It is definitely worth adding to your road trip itinerary for a few days of relaxation.

What are the main attractions to see in Tumby Bay?

The town is a brilliant mix of oversized art and underwater wonders. The "Colour Tumby" Silo Art is the headline act, offering a massive, Instagram-worthy mural that defines the landscape. For a touch of history, the National Trust Museum offers a deep dive into the region's pioneer past without feeling overwhelming.

Nature lovers have plenty to do, from walking the accessible Mangrove Boardwalk to snorkeling around the jetty. If you are a foodie, use Tumby as your launchpad to hit up nearby spots like Anse French Café in Port Lincoln for a proper brunch and a flat white.

Is the water at Tumby Bay good for swimming?

Yes, the calm waters around the bay are great for a refreshing dip, particularly near the jetty and along the main foreshore. It is a popular spot for locals and visitors to cool off, snorkel, or just float around on a sunny afternoon.

Just remember that this is the Southern Ocean, so the water can be a bit crisp! It is perfect for waking you up before you head out for a coffee or a lazy afternoon exploring the coastline.

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