Mintabie

The friendly opal-mining town of Mintabie is known for its lake, spectacular sunsets and the wild flowers that thrive after a good rain. It's also known for noodling - the exciting, sifting search for opals in various spots around town. Mintabie is located about 40 kilometres west of Marla in the Pitjantjatjara Lands in South Australia's far north. This small opal mining community has developed over the past 20 years and now has a population of approximately 300. Facilities include a hotel and caravan parks. Note: Road access to Mintabie requires a permit, which is available from the Marla police station. Permits to the opal fields are also available there.