Our Place

“I've lived here since the Sixties and have seen the town grow and welcome people from all over the world. It's got a special, friendly, magical desert atmosphere - and offers attractions like nowhere else on earth.” Robert Coro Chairman, Coober Pedy Retail, Tourism & Business Association

From oceans to opals...

Around 150 million years ago, Coober Pedy was covered by ocean - and when the water receded, the sandy silica minerals from the seabed flowed into the rocky cracks and cavities and solidified over time into multi-coloured gemstone – opal.

Millions of years in the making, this abundance of rainbow gems have put Coober Pedy on the map as the opal capital of the world.

Come and see them in their natural state on a tour of the mines – or see them sparkle as polished gemstones in the town's galleries and shops. Very special souvenirs of your visit.

Yet there are other gems to discover in this amazing desert region – and we welcome you to explore them all.

Our place is like no other – for many of us choose to live like the opals: in the cooler spaces underground. Come and visit our desert homes, churches, galleries, hotels – then take a tour to experience our region in all its spectacular shapes and colours.

Wildlife, natural wonders of the landscape – and the world's most ancient living culture seen in the Aboriginal art throughout the region.

We welcome you to share our place for a while.

This website will provide simple yet helpful information about Coober Pedy and the region and is a portal to the many attractions and businesses in Coober Pedy that can help make your trip out here all the more wonderful!