Heart-pounding adventures, up-close wildlife encounters, and the joy of savouring the Island’s Cellar Doors. Prepare for an experience that will leave you breathless.
-
1
Day one
Kangaroo Island Sculpture Trail
The Kangaroo Island Sculpture Trail is a fun, free and family-friendly experience offering original artwork in a beautiful native setting.
The trail is located in the heart of the coastal village of Penneshaw, just a few minute's walk from the Penneshaw Jetty and adjacent to Hog Bay Beach.
Come for a wander through the stunning trail, following the contours of the natural environment. Explore the many surprises, scenic lookouts, ancient vegetation and the stunning ravine walls.
The growing collection of sculpture installations from local, national and international artists tells the story of our community's connection to nature and local culture.
The trail is owned by our community and managed by a team of dedicated volunteers. Your donation to the trail helps their volunteers maintain and grow their trail.
The trail is 1.5 kms in length; an easy walk but with some steps so is unfortunately not suitable for wheelchairs.
The trail is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Trail markers with maps are situated within the trail to help you select your route.Cape Willoughby Lighthouse
Situated in the easternmost point of Kangaroo Island, Cape Willoughby Lighthouse was the first lighthouse to be built in South Australia in 1852. It stands 27 metres high with 102 steps to the lookout tower, and offers stunning panoramic view across Backstairs Passage and the Kangaroo Island coastline.
Guided tours of the Lightstation precinct, including the tower, are held daily. The Visitor Centre includes a fascinating museum reading room, with light refreshments and souvenirs available.
The isolation, ruggedness and beauty of this part of Kangaroo Island, is striking. Stay overnight in a spacious lightkeeper’s cottage to live the experience from the comfort of one of these beautifully restored cottages.
Self-guided walking trails provide further insight into the lives of the early Lighthouse Keepers and the construction of the Lightstation. A 1.9 kilometre loop walk commences from the Visitors Centre.
Nearby Antechamber Bay, in Lashmar Conservation Park, offers a long sandy beach perfect for swimming, beachcombing, with picnic and camping facilities.Dudley Wines
Dudley Wines is a hands-on family business. Established in 1997, Dudley is Kangaroo Island's Pioneer Winery. The Cellar Door is situated 12 kilometres from Penneshaw on the cliff tops of Kangaroo Island's stunning north coast, a not to be missed experience for visitors to the island.
Relax for the afternoon on the deck, with unparalleled views to mainland Australia, while enjoying Dudley's locally grown and produced wines, alongside a grazing board or gourmet pizza. Try your luck at 'Golf across the Gully', and browse through the exquisite range of wool and natural fibre clothing. Local produce and beer also available. Lunch bookings are recommended.
Dudley Wines reflect the personality of the Island and the winemaker, fifth generation Islander, Brodie Howard. Being the owner/winemaker for over 20 years has given him the freedom to explore many techniques and develop his own unique winemaking style. His range of wines are diverse, and carefully crafted to capture and emphasise the abundant fruit characteristics presented by the Island’s Terroir.
Dudley Wines use sustainable practices in every area of their business; throughout the vineyard, winery and cellar door. Their wines are all vegan friendly and low in Sulphur.Rebuild Independence Project
The Rebuild Independence Project is a volunteer group that is re-creating the first vessel ever built in South Australia - the 45ft United States Schooner "Independence." The original Schooner was built on the banks of an inlet, where now stands the town of American River. She was built by American sealers from Stonington in Connecticut, USA, in 1803, who sailed here in their Brig "Union".
The vessel is being built in the RIG Boathouse, which is at the entrance to the American River Wharf. Visit us and learn about the "Union" and "Independence". Discover their association with the great explorers Nicolas Baudin and Matthew Flinders.
The vessel is being built entirely by voluntary labour and we estimate that we will need another three to five years to complete. Once finished visitors will be able to climb aboard and go for a short sail around the beautiful Eastern Cove and learn how these old sailing vessels were handled.
Looking for refreshments? The adjoining licensed water front Deck Cafe, with ample parking, looks out over the anchorage. While away the time over a delicious lunch or coffee and watch the many birds, and maybe our resident seal or dolphin. -
2
Day two
Island Beehive
The Kangaroo Island Ligurian Bee Co is a family-owned and operated business with deep roots on Kangaroo Island, South Australia. Since the 1940s, the Davis family has been dedicated to beekeeping, a tradition now passed down to the fourth generation.
Their commitment to excellence led them to become one of the first certified organic honey producers in 2001. Today, they manage over 800 hives, strategically moving them across Kangaroo Island to align with the island's unique flora and seasons. This careful selection ensures that our bees forage exclusively on native plants, producing small batch honey with a flavor found nowhere else in the world.
Declared a bee sanctuary in 1885, Kangaroo Island safeguards the purest strain of Ligurian bees remaining in the world, renowned for their gentle temperament and exceptional productivity.
At the heart of the operations is Island Beehive, where they extract and hand-pack their premium raw honey. More than just a production site, it’s where they share the remarkable story of the Ligurian Bee Sanctuary and our ongoing efforts to protect these incredible bees through sustainable practices and biosecurity measures.
Join them in celebrating over 80 years of beekeeping excellence and discover the extraordinary flavors of Kangaroo Island honey.Shoal Bay Studio
Shoal Bay Studio is a working studio that produces and presents handmade jewellery, paintings, art prints, photographic prints, pottery, as well as other object d'art and crafts.
Set in mallee woodlands with abundant wildlife, it overlooks the beautiful Bay of Shoals, in close proximity to Kingscote.
We look forward to welcoming you!Emu Bay Lavender Farm
Emu Bay Lavender is a charming farm gate cafe nestled among picturesque rows of lavender, where they craft a variety of lavender products right on site. The cafe is renowned for its indulgent oversized lavender scones and artisanal handmade ice cream. The cafe serves up a delectable breakfast and lunch menu featuring fresh and flavorful dishes that are sure to delight your taste buds. With a full liquor license, and their cocktail list featuring their own range of Lavender Gin and Limoncello, along with several other stand out local drinks offerings. Join Emu Bay Lavender for a delightful culinary experience surrounded by the beauty and fragrance of lavender fields on Kangaroo Island.The Islander Estate Vineyards
Welcome to the world of wine.
The Islander Estate Vineyards crafts premium French-influenced wines amongst the stunning natural environment of Kangaroo Island.
Renowned French winemaker Jacques Lurton fell in love with Kangaroo Island and built his ideal vineyard and winery in the stunning Kohinoor Hills.
Here, he blends his two worlds to create unique, elegant, cool-climate wines that showcase the true potential of Kangaroo Island wine.
The intimate Cellar Door at Cygnet River offers personalised hosted tasting experiences. You can select your favourite wine to enjoy with a regional gourmet platter on the lawns or deck in peaceful rural surroundings.
Select some wines to enjoy on your holiday or send home. They ship Australia-wide.
The Islander Estate Vineyards Tasting Room is centrally located at Cygnet River, within minutes of Kingscote and Kangaroo Island airport.Kangaroo Island Wool
Kangaroo Island Wool, a pioneering South Australian company, sets a new standard in the wool industry with a focus on modern farming practices, animal husbandry, and fine merino wool production.
What truly distinguishes them is their ambitious move towards on-site, end-to-end manufacturing through a vertical wool mill, ensuring complete control over quality and sustainability from scouring to the final product.
Embracing innovation and eco-conscious practices, Kangaroo Island Wool leads the way for environmentally friendly, Australian-made, and high-quality woollen garments.
Discover the unmatched luxury of Kangaroo Island Wool, whether you seek classic knitwear or stylish accessories, embrace the warmth and style of Kangaroo Island Wool, where a passion for sustainability and fashion meet to create the ultimate in comfort and style.
Visit the retail showroom any time or book online to experience their captivating mill tour. -
3
Day three
Seal Bay
As Kangaroo Island's premier tourist attraction, the award-winning Seal Bay offers visitors an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Set your own pace on the 800 metre wheelchair accessible boardwalk which meanders through the dunes to a number of viewing platforms. Boardwalk tour tickets can be purchased on-site at the Seal Bay Visitor Information centre. The boardwalk tour can be taken at any time while the park is open from 9am with the last entry at 4pm.
For beach access to the sea-lion colony, join a guided tour to learn more about the amazing lives of these endangered animals with an experienced guide. There will be plenty of time for photos as the sea lions shelter in the dunes, rest on the sand or surf in the ocean. This tour can be booked online up to nine hours before tour departure.
Seal Bay is a 45-minute drive from Kingscote.Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park
The Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park is a must see destination on Kangaroo Island. Previously located in Parndana, the park is now located at 3115 South Coast Road, Seal Bay. - the same great location as Raptor Domain!
Visitors can spend time with some of Australia's unique wildlife in a fun, educational environment. Hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, get up close and cuddle koalas, see penguins play, and view our diverse range of wombats, dingoes, reptiles, echidnas and much more.
Join in at the daily talks and displays where you can see and hear about some of their animals up close and have the chance to pat and interact with them.
Have a light lunch, grab a coffee or ice-cream, relax and enjoy the park at your own pace. It is a fun day out for visitors of all ages!Little Sahara Adventure Centre
Explore the beauty and excitement that Little Sahara natural inland sand dunes has to offer! This incredibly unique site is known as Nature’s Playground as it's great fun for the kids and the kids at heart!
Surf the dunes like a pro on a sandboard or just sit down, hang on and slide on toboggans! You'll be given a few hints and tips to make the most out of your time on the dunes.
Little Sahara's bike tours - the best tour on Kangaroo Island! Observe and learn about the island’s unique flora and fauna with your experienced guide. Wild koala sightings are guaranteed as you meander through the 500 year old gums before emerging out into the breathtaking landscape of the Little Sahara sand dunes! Glide along with your ultra wide low pressure tyres (and do it effortlessly if you opt for an e-bike). Riding down the dunes is an option for the thrill seekers!
Or if you're not a thrill seeker but still want to explore and learn about this beautiful place, a personalised walking tour could be for you!
Guided tours and hire periods are 2 hours, with full day or multi day packages also available.Vivonne Bay General Store and Bottle Shop
We are located on the beautiful South Coast of Kangaroo Island. We have the famous KI Whiting Burger, plus offer other great food and coffee to enjoy in a relaxed and friendly environment in our new dining areas.
We also stock essential supplies such as fruit, veg, meat, milk, bread, fishing gear and fuel. Our whole venue is licensed for you to enjoy a drink either dine in or take away.Kangaroo Island Bush Getaway Adventures
Discover the charm of Kangaroo Island with an unforgettable quad bike adventure through stunning farmland and bushland. Ride across creeks, try your hand at catching freshwater lobsters, round up sheep, and learn about the unique landscape. Along the way, spot incredible wildlife like koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, goannas, and more!
With over 15 years of experience, Kangaroo Island Bush Getaway offers professional training and friendly, personalized service. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, their automatic, easy-to-ride quad bikes ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all.
Book now for an adventure packed with fun, nature, and local knowledge! -
4
Day four
Raptor Domain
Raptor Domain is home to one of the only free-flight Birds of Prey presentations in South Australia and an experience you must not miss!
At their daily bird presentations, enjoy a delightful interactive experience with the friendly Barn Owls; have a laugh with Banjo and Paterson the laughing Kookaburras; meet an array of birds including majestic Wedge-tailed Eagles; incredibly aerobatic Black Kites; chatty Cockatoos and many more. These presentations offer a rare opportunity to see and interact with some of Australia’s incredible birds in up close encounters.
Private experiences allow you all of this and more all in the comfort of your own private presentation! A once in a lifetime opportunity!Kangaroo Island’s Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Oil Distillery
Find out what is so unique about the Emu Ridge attraction. Here you can learn how Australian Eucalyptus Oil is made, from the past to the present.
Emu Ridge is perfectly situated for island exploring, just 15 minutes from Kingscote, American River, and Parndana.
Eucalyptus oil was Australia’s first true export overseas and one of Kangaroo Islands major industries. Emu Ridge is now the only remaining commercial eucalyptus oil distillery in South Australia and is proud to have preserved a major part of Kangaroo Island’s heritage and history, producing eucalyptus oil that is unique to the world.
The award-winning Emu Ridge site has an excellent retail outlet that offers an extensive range of local produce, art, craft and historical memorabilia. Emu Ridge manufactures and retails Eucalyptus oil and a large range of associated natural products.
They also offer guided and self-guided tours that take visitors through the distillery.
Emu Ridge has a cafe area that offers meals, light snacks, coffee and drinks. There is also the cellar door where you can try their award-winning Kangaroo Island Cider. They have indoor and two large outdoor eating areas, including a picnic area, which are also available for events. The dining area offers a fully licensed bar.
Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery is a family and pet-friendly venue.Kangaroo Island Spirits
Kangaroo Island Spirits (KIS) is South Australia's first boutique distillery and was established in 2006. Kangaroo Island Spirits produce a range of high-quality liqueurs and spirits, emphasising local and native ingredients.
While Gin is their passion,they also produce a variety of liqueurs and vodkas and have just commenced their world-class whisky program. All the products are handmade in small batches using hand-crafted copper pot stills. KIS' products have received international awards in London, New York, San Francisco and Hong Kong. Products are available online and in discerning local restaurants and outlets. (See website for more details).
Their cellar door is open seven days, and offer a range of highly curated experiences, including Premium Guided Tastings, Cocktail Masterclasses, and a very popular Gin-Blending Master Class.Kangaroo Island Brewery
Kangaroo Island is home to Kangaroo Island brewery, and is the first cellar door microbrewery on Kangaroo Island. Nestled a short distance from the main town on the island, Kingscote, it is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Spread across a sprawling 20-acre property, the brewery offers ample space for children to play freely, while couples or groups of friends can seek out a tranquil nook in the paddock, on the deck or a spot inside. -
That's a wrap
From heart-pounding adventures to up-close encounters with remarkable wildlife, and the delight of savouring the region's finest wines, this exploration promises to be an unforgettable experience.
