Kangaroo Island

We’ve compiled the best of the best in Kangaroo Island - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

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  • 1. Flinders Chase National Park

    Much of Kangaroo Island has been given over to farmland but since being declared a national treasure in 1919, a huge area of original vegetation has been protected in Flinders Chase. The catastrophic wildfires that swept through Kangaroo Island in early 2020 burnt 98% of the park but within weeks green shoots had begun to re-emerge and wildlife returned soon afterward. Now the regenerating landscape offers a unique chance to observe how well adapted Australian flora is to bushfires; many native species need fire to reproduce. The best way to see the park is on foot and several short walking trails meander through shaded valleys or along spectacular coastal cliffs. But the undoubted highlight is the 61-km (38-mile) Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail, which adds tannin-stained creeks, mallee scrub, sugar gum forests, and isolated beaches into the mix as well as passing the aforementioned geological marvels. Walkers can hike the full five-day trail or tackle a single section with a range of licensed tour operators. The effects of seas crashing mercilessly onto Australia's southern coast are visible in the oddly shaped rocks on the island's shores. 

    S. Coast Rd., Flinders Chase National Park, South Australia, 5223, Australia

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: From A$12
  • 2. Seal Bay Conservation Park

    This top Kangaroo Island attraction gives you the chance to visit one of the state's largest Australian sea lion colonies. About 300 animals usually lounge on the beach, except on stormy days when they shelter in the dunes. You can visit the beach and get surprisingly close to females, pups, and bulls on a 45-minute tour with an interpretive officer; otherwise, you can follow the self-guided boardwalk to a lookout over the sand. The park visitor center has fun and educational displays, and a touch table covered in sea-lion skins and bones. There is also a souvenir shop.

    - 08 - 8553--4463

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: From A$17
  • 3. Hanson Bay

    Beach

    A narrow, winding, unsealed road off South Coast Road, 46 km (29 miles) west of Seal Bay Road, ends at this perfect little sandy cove. Rocky headlands on either side protect the gently sloping beach so swimming is safe. To the east are several secluded beaches; these are more exposed, though, and riptides make swimming dangerous. Amenities: parking; toilets. Best for: swimming; walking; surfing.

    West River Rd., off South Coast Rd., Karatta, South Australia, 5223, Australia
  • 4. Hanson Bay

    This beach is off the beaten path. A narrow, winding, unsealed road off South Coast Road, 46 km (29 miles) west of Seal Bay Road, ends at this perfect little sandy cove. Rocky headlands on either side protect the gently sloping beach so swimming is safe. To the east are several secluded beaches; these are more exposed, though, and riptides make swimming dangerous. Amenities: parking; toilets. Best for: surfing; swimming; walking.

    W. River Rd.
  • 5. Island Beach

    Known locally as Millionaires' Row for its fabulous real estate, Island Beach is the quintessential beach holiday location. Framed by dense bushland, the sandy beach is secluded, stretches almost as far as the eye can see, and provides very safe swimming. Walking along the coast toward American River yields plenty of bird-watching opportunities. Amenities: food and drink; parking. Best for: solitude; swimming; walking.

  • Recommended Fodor’s Video

  • 6. Penneshaw Penguin Centre

    There are now only around 15 pairs of the delightful little (formerly called fairy) penguins in the colony here at Penneshaw. From the indoor interpretive center, where you can read about bird activity—including mating, nesting, and feeding—a boardwalk leads to a viewing platform above rocks and sand riddled with burrows. Because the penguins spend most of the day fishing at sea or inside their burrows, the best viewing is after sunset. The informative guided tours leave from the center after sunset daily except Wednesday and Thursday. You might see penguins waddling ashore, chicks emerging from their burrows to feed, or scruffy adults molting. Although sometimes you may not see any at all. Bookings essential.

    Middle Terr. at Bay Terr., Penneshaw, South Australia, 5222, Australia
    0430-411--487

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: Guided tours A$25, Closed Feb. 1–21
  • 7. Sunset Winery

    Sip smooth Chardonnay while overlooking Eastern Cove at this calm, cool, and pristine place among Kangaroo Island's thriving wine industry. You can sample wines at the cellar door, and opt for the shareable Savoury Platter: a selection of Kangaroo Island and regional cheeses, KI Source Relish, South Rock Salami, local olives, crackers, and more. Alternately, try a Dukkah Plate from the Fleurieu, served with local Wild olive oil and delicious local bread.

    4564 Hog Bay Rd.
    - 08 - 8553–1378

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: Daily 11–5

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