Where to find the best oysters in Ceduna & the Far West Coast

LOVE OYSTERS? WELCOME TO PARADISE.

Salt water on your lips, the gentle rhythm of the waves at your feet, and the ocean’s fresh, bold flavour bursting in your mouth — this is the Far West Coast seafood experience at its best. With hundreds of kilometres of pristine coastline, the Far West Coast produces some of the world’s most sought-after oysters. From the clear waters of the Great Australian Bight to the local seafood eateries, slurp a dozen with our guide to the best places to eat oysters along South Australia’s rugged coast.

CEDUNA AND SMOKY BAY

Ceduna and Smoky Bay are at the heart of the Far West Coast’s thriving oyster industry where thousands of Pacific Oysters are harvested each week. The area is home to the Aquaculture Park, spanning 24 oyster farms across 187 hectares, and produces nearly half of South Australia’s oysters—around six million annually. Cultivated in the pristine, nutrient-rich waters of the Great Australian Bight, free from freshwater influences, these oysters develop a distinctively salty, briny flavour.

Here, you can taste oysters straight from the source. Hop on board an oyster boat, then head out to the beautiful waters of Smoky Bay with SA Premium Oysters. Take in the Far West Coast’s unique coastal scenery as you cruise to the oyster lease. See how oysters are grown, learn how to shuck, and then savour what are arguably the finest oysters you’ll ever taste, plucked straight from the racks. The experience continues on a custom-built platform, where you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of the farm with local wine as dolphins frolic nearby. If you’d rather stay on land, you can devour these plump, buttery oysters on a Shed Tour, where you’ll also learn how oysters are grown and handled.

CEDUNA OYSTER FESTIVAL

For two sumptuous days over the October long weekend, Ceduna Oysterfest serves up the finest oysters from the Far West Coast. As Australia’s largest oyster festival, this free entry event has something for everyone including live entertainment, all ages competitions, specialty cuisines, local wine tastings, carnival rides, a kids’ zone, stunt performances and cooking demonstrations. As the weather warms, enjoy a relaxing family escape, with an uncrowded coastal atmosphere and activities for all ages to enjoy.

CEDUNA OYSTER BARN

Briny, straight from the ocean and served natural, grilled, dripping in garlic butter, or topped with their secret hot sauce; Ceduna Oyster Barn is a celebration to all things oyster. Just minutes from town along the Eyre Highway, this iconic spot is a fan favourite for oyster loving foodies. The kitchen sources its Pacific Oysters from Smoky Bay farmers to create eleven oyster concoctions worth shelling out for. Order a dozen for dinner, then pull up a seat on the rooftop and watch the road trains rumble in. Not an oyster fan? Gyoza, dumplings, and sushi are just a few of the diverse dishes at this unique eatery.

SEAFOOD WHOLESALERS, THEVENARD

For fresh, local seafood straight off the boat, head to Thevenard Fish Processors or Baldy’s Fresh and Frozen Seafood. Located just minutes from Ceduna, you can watch fishmongers at work in the morning as they prepare the day’s catch, or drop by in the afternoon when boats deliver not only the freshest oysters, but King George Whiting, snapper, crayfish, prawns and calamari. Pick up a fresh dozen or your favourite seafood and cook up a feast at home. Writer’s tip: don’t forget to grab Baldy’s famous pickled fish and seafood for a quick, tasty treat.

CEDUNA FORESHORE HOTEL

Fancy your oysters with a side of beachfront views? Welcome to the Ceduna Foreshore Hotel. Enjoying one of the best locations in Ceduna, you’ll find this bistro beachfront overlooking Murat Bay, offering both alfresco dining and a cozy indoor setting. The Ceduna Foreshore Hotel’s menu is as diverse as its culinary team — drawing inspiration from three nationalities, the multicultural menu serves up the region’s freshest seafood in dishes that are as dynamic as they are delicious. Seafood platters, ponzu oysters, and seafood pesto pasta are just a taste of what’s on offer at this coastal gem.

FROM FRESH FLAVOURS TO ANCIENT CULTURE…

Once you’ve tasted the freshest oysters, why not uncover the ancient stories that have shaped the Far West Coast? Step into the history and culture of Aboriginal Far West Coast with our guide to the best Aboriginal experiences and attractions.