South Hedland, located 20 minutes' drive inland from the coastal town of Port Hedland in the state's north, was born when the booming Port Hedland ran out of suitable building land in the mid 1960s. To solve this problem a satellite town was established which is now known as South Hedland.

South Hedland serves as a predominantly residential area for the nearby mining communities and contains many facilities including a large shopping centre which offers a supermarket, department store and over 25 specialty shops.

There are a wide variety of Aboriginal communities in the area. Archaeological sites show the physical evidence of the lifestyle and activities of the Aboriginal people.

South Hedland offers a variety of venues for dining including a la carte, counter meals and take away.

Motel style accommodation can be found offering apartments, deluxe and standard rooms. Caravan parks offer ensuite cabins, onsite caravans, shaded and grassed powered sites.