The District Council of Coober Pedy, Coober Pedy Visitor Information Centre & the Coober Pedy Retail Business & Tourism Association welcomes you to the Coober Pedy, "Opal Capital of the World", website.

Opal was first found in Coober Pedy on the 1st of February 1915 and since then has been supplying the world with the majority of gem quality opal.

Coober Pedy today relies as much on tourism as the opal mining industry to provide the community with employment and sustainability.

Coober Pedy has evolved in to one of the most unique places in Australia and perhaps the world. It is a cosmopolitan town with a population of 3,500 and over 45 different nationalities.

The relaxed and friendly lifestyle of the town has made it a breeding ground for cultural tolerance, diversity and acceptance.

Coober Pedy is probably best known for its unique style of underground living. There is a range of underground accommodation (as well as above ground if you prefer).

There are authentic underground homes to explore as well as underground museums, opal shops, art galleries, underground churches and, of course, opal mines.

The photographs throughout this site are courtesy of Sandra Harris (Tourism Officer), Peter Caust, Peter Rowe and the South Australian Tourist Commission.

Please visit our Visitor Centre Page for information on opening hours and services for our Accredited Visitor Information Centre

Please click here to download the Coober Pedy Business Retail and Tourism Association's Brochure (PDF 3.54mb)