Get ready to discover the true essence of Kangaroo Island like never before. Delve into the untamed beauty of Kangaroo Island, where every moment is an adventure waiting to unfold.
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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.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.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.False Cape Wines Cellar Door
False Cape Cellar Door offers premium wines and is situated in an idyllic setting, nestled amongst the vineyard and gum trees on the picturesque Willson River, surrounded by native vegetation and only 12 km from Penneshaw and the ferry.
The Cellar Door is made from recycled wood, jetty timbers and limestone sourced throughout South Australia. All hand built by us and the exceptional Freestone Creations.
They aim to give visitors a welcoming and relaxing environment to experience their Authentic Kangaroo Island handcrafted premium wines. Made by award-winning winemaker Greg Follett (Julie's brother) of Lake Breeze Wines.
They offer a delicious lunchtime menu to complement their premium wines, which include platters, homemade pies, kids' menu and various specials depending on the season.
There is a kids nature playground, farm animal viewing, large fenced lawned area, plus a basketball backboard for the older kids. So, sit back, relax and enjoy a deluxe platter, a tasting paddle, glass of wine or a local beer.
The Kangaroo Island vineyard was established by Julie and Jamie Helyar in 1999 with North Facing Slopes, Terra Rosa soils over Limestone, cool climate along with sustainable practices creating the ideal conditions for producing great quality grapes and wine.
Their latest releases of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Merlot and Riesling continue to impress, all receiving 94 points from James Halliday Wine Companion 2023. -
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Day two
Raptor Domain
Raptor Domain is home to one of the only free-flight Birds of Prey presentation in South Australia. 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.
At the daily Reptile presentation have a look into the amazing Australian reptiles, venom, and the creatures that use it. Here you will be able to get up close and personal in a safe environment with some of Australia’s most venomous critters. Learn interesting facts about amazing snakes and lizards while holding them yourself or watch as others face their fears with a python around their shoulders. Creepy crawlies also make an appearance with experienced trainers bringing out scorpions, spiders and much more.
Once in a lifetime private experiences available daily. See the web site for more information.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.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 Beach
Vivonne Bay was voted one of Australia's top beaches, this was because of its clear water, cleanliness and privacy. Its long, sandy beach is ideal for picnics, sunbathing, fishing and surfing.
The beach at Vivonne Bay is also famed for its cray fishing and numerous boats leave and arrive at the town’s jetty with a fresh catch. There are picnic and barbeque areas set up at the jetty that are available for public use.Kangaroo Island Mini Golf
Kangaroo Island Mini Golf is located along South Coast Road on Kangaroo Island, making it an excellent stop on your way to major tourist attractions such as Kelly Hill Caves and Flinders Chase National Park. Nestled amongst the beautiful bushland of the island, the picturesque 18-hole mini golf course is suitable for all ages and skill levels.
The mini golf course has only recently opened to residents and visitors to the island, providing excellent family fun and making it a must-do holiday activity. The brand-new course offers some challenging holes as well as an interesting backdrop with eucalyptus trees and Australian scrub weaving around each of the holes.
Free parking is available on-site, and drinks can be purchased at the office upon arrival. Kangaroo Island Mini Golf is open to large group bookings. -
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Day three
Remarkable Rocks
Perched above the sea in Flinders Chase National Park, the impressive Remarkable Rocks form what appear to be a cluster of precariously balanced granite boulders.
This stunning work of nature has been shaped by the erosive forces of wind, sea spray and rain over some 500 million years. The golden orange lichen covering some of the rocks offers visitors wonderful photo opportunities at different times of the day. Interpretation signs share the story of how these intriguing rocks were formed.
There is a viewing platform providing a vantage point for disabled access. The area also provides an excellent vantage point for viewing the photogenic Casuarina Islets.Admirals Arch
Admirals Arch is a natural rock arch created by amazing forces of nature. It's situated within Flinders Chase National Park on Kangaroo Island. You can access the boardwalk around the cliff face which leads to a viewing platform overlooking the arch. The arch is sculpted by weathering and erosion from the sea over thousands of years.
To reach the arch there is a purpose-built boardwalk, it’s steep with steps at the end that take you to see the arch itself. If you can’t make it down to the arch, the scenery along the way is still well worth a journey along the boardwalk.
Fur-seals often play among the rocks. These dark brown seals feed at sea but return to land to rest and breed. In summer, each of the large males establishes a territory with a number of females. You can often see Fur-seal pups playing near the rock pools beneath the arch.
There is an interpretive centre at the park with more information, maps and ideas for walking and viewing wildlife nearby.
You can also stay nearby in the heritage lighthouse cottages at Cape de Couedic. These have been beautifully restored with modern facilities.Explore Flinders Chase National Park on a hikeHanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary Experiences
Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most reliable wildlife viewing areas on Kangaroo Island. It is the home range of many koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, echidna, goanna, Cape Barren geese, and over 40 other species of birds.
Take a guided 90 minute guided tour with one of their experienced tour guides through the sanctuary and observe the amazing and beautiful wildlife. Learn about the bush fire and the survival techniques used by these amazing animals.Kelly Hill Caves
Ready to step back in time? Kelly Hill Caves has reopened with a brand-new visitor experience.
An audio-visual tour featuring narration and a dynamic light display will provide visitors with an immersive experience through the history of the caves.
The experience starts with a guided above-ground walk. Here, you learn about the caves’ history and view new interpretive signage, setting the stage for the underground adventure.
Visited before? The tour offers fresh insights for both new and returning visitors.
About Kelly Hill Caves
Around two million years ago the sea was constantly changing between its present level and 125 metres lower, intermittently exposing the continental shelf. It was at this time that the dunes of Kelly Hill were formed as calcareous shell fragments from the exposed sea bed were windblown and deposited on the island’s south and west coast. Over a long period of time these dunes hardened into a porous limestone that is shaped by the action of percolating rainwater.
At Kelly Hill this has given rise to an underground labyrinth of sinkholes and caverns thought to extend for kilometres. Nature has again created some of its finest work here, with caves full of beautiful yet fragile stalagmites, stalactites, helictites and towering columns that transport visitors to another world. -
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Day four
Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park
The Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park is a must see destination on Kangaroo Island. It is located three kilometres past Parndana in the centre of Kangaroo Island, South Australia.
Set over 50 acres and home to over 500 animals, 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, birds, 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 lunch in the cafe, grab a coffee or ice-cream, relax and listen to the birds chatter. It is a fun day out for visitors of all ages!Stokes Bay Beach
The secluded beach at Stokes Bay, located on Kangaroo Island's serene north coast, is protected from the pounding surf by a giant pool surrounded by rocks. Voted Australia's Best Beach 2023, Stokes Bay is a surprise, and it all starts with the entrance that will keep you guessing.
This tranquil location can be found by walking east of the bay, follow the signs pointing to the 'Beach' and make your way through the headland of boulders before emerging to a pristine white sandy beach with a sheltered rock pool - perfect for swimming.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.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. -
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Day five
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.Clifford's Honey Farm
Clifford’s Honey Farm is Dave and Jenny Clifford’s family business with three generations currently working at the farm situated at Elsegood Road, Haines, Kangaroo Island.
Home of Jenny's Famous Honey Ice-Cream
Farm Gate Shop: Open 7 days, 9am to 5pm (Closed Christmas Day only).
Guided tours through the extracting shed available daily at 1pm. Book online or contact us.
For Tour Operators: Group bookings available with flexible times. Contact us to arrange dates and times. Phone 08 8553 8295.
Dave started with a couple of hives as a hobby in 1973. During the late 1980’s when the wool prices dropped, Dave and Jenny diversified their sheep farm by expanding the honey business. They opened the farm gate shop in 1993.
The family runs the honey production business and farm gate.
They are open daily operating their farm gate store and free entry to bee information display room.
Free honey tastings are available.
The online shop is available, and you will find a selection of their quality honey and a range of products they can mail order.
Their facilities also include ramps and disabled access toilets.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.Springs Road Kangaroo Island
Springs Road runs East-West across the Northern part of Kangaroo Island, South Australia. Spring Road Vineyard was established in 1994 on a small sheep property about 7km west of Kingscote.
Springs Road Wines is owned and operated by Joch Bosworth and Louise Hemsley-Smith from McLaren Vale’s Battle of Bosworth Wines.
Wines are 100% estate-grown and hand-made from the low-yielding vines which are now well over 20 years old.
The Springs Road wine label is adapted from Louis Freycinet’s 1808 map of Southern Australia ‘Terre Napoléon.’
They make small volumes of Chardonnay, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and a Cabernet Sauvignon/ Shiraz blend.
Their Kangaroo Island wines are available at their cellar door (and online) located off Springs Road but accessed opposite 761 Playford Highway (just up from Frog and Roses Cafe), in Cygnet River.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. -
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Day six
Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures
Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures are the dolphin swim specialists in South Australia & Kangaroo Island and have been offering visitors a unique marine wildlife experiences for more than 19 years .
Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures have gained the trust of the wild dolphin pods by simply reading the signs displayed by their dolphins. Pay attention to them and the results speak for themselves. This is a marine experience not to be missed and fun for the whole family no matter what age.
You may also see nesting sights of the rare and endangered white-bellied sea eagle, peregrine falcons and the mighty wedge-tailed eagle.
Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures is often referred to as the best wild dolphin swim experience in Australia or anywhere for that matter, recently voted by Trip Advisor this is a true wild dolphin swim experience and the only operator on Kangaroo Island to offer this unique experience
Their boat operates in the shallow protected bays of the north coast where at times they encounter large pods of dolphins.
All equipment is provided and morning tea provided on the Explorer tour.The Oyster Farm Shop
Discover this unique, aquaculture farmgate on Kangaroo Island!
Situated in the picturesque town of American River, their farm-gate showcases Island aquaculture and sustainable seafood including; Pacific Oysters, Native oysters, Wild Marron, Abalone, Abalini, King George Whiting and more (when in season)!
Feast on their Harvest of the Day lunch menu paired with local wine, cider and beer or gather up a seafood banquet to enjoy back at your accommodation!
Enjoy watching the local oyster punt bring in boat loads of fresh oysters during the season, watching oystershuckers in action or book a Daily Farm Tour or their new Shucking Experience to learn more!
Not a restaurant, cafe or fish and chip shop, this is an authentic farmgate experience where you can learn about the aquaculture produce farmed on Kangaroo Island. Sample free tastings of delicious farm shop Smoked Produce and their famous KI Kilpatrick sauce.
A visit to The Oyster Farm Shop is a foodie must-do on Kangaroo Island!Prospect Hill
Matthew Flinders climbed Prospect Hill when navigating the North Coast of Kangaroo Island to determine his bearings in 1802.
Visitors can now climb this steep sand hill via 500 steps to the highest point on Kangaroo Island.
Views from the top include panoramic views of Pelican lagoon and Pennington Bay.
The Prospect Hill Stairs and lookout were upgraded in 2018/2019
The steps were constructed using stainless steel fittings and fibre reinforced polymer stairs and structural members.Pennington Bay Beach
Pennington Bay sits on the southern coastline of Kangaroo Island.
It is a stunning bay that is famous for its surfing due to the powerful swells that roll in. Caution should be taken when swimming as the waves can be rough.
The landscape of Pennington Bay is stunning, with stunning bush land and wild life.
Just two kilometres off the main Hog Bay Road. -
That's a wrap
Get ready to immerse yourself in the island's untamed beauty, as you explore breathtaking landscapes, witness iconic Australian animals in their natural habitat, and indulge in the flavours of the region's finest vineyards. This journey guarantees an unforgettable blend of adrenaline, natural wonders, and Island produce, making it the ultimate Kangaroo Island adventure.
