Explore Kangaroo Island

From untamed bushland to immaculate beaches, Kangaroo Island – or “KI” to the locals – is an adventurer’s playground.  

Do

Kangaroo Island is home to diverse wildlife and flora. A host of friendly locals, who know the island inside out, operate tours that explore the great outdoors. You can hire a four-wheel drive, hop on a diving charter boat or take a helicopter ride. Explore the ocean by kayak or reach for the skies in a biplane. When adventure calls, Kangaroo Island is the answer. Don’t miss the naturally sculpted formations, Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, at Flinders Chase National Park, both showing the power of the wind and waves. And see if you can spot the colony of New Zealand fur seals sunbathing on the rocks below.

Eat and Drink

Stop for lunch at The Chase Cafe, then hit the trail to Cape Borda Lightstation. Cruise the self-guided nature drive down Shackle Road, and stop for the fine dining experience of Nicolas Baudin’s Restaurant and Bar at the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Retreat. Drive an hour east to sample local shellfish dishes at Andermel Marron.

Stay

Make your home base Flinders Chase National Park, the largest protected area on Kangaroo Island. Tucked into the island’s southwest corner, accommodation options range in size, price and prestige, from heritage cottages (complete with toilets, showers and more mod cons) to tried-and-true campgrounds.

Get there

From December 2017, Qantas is introducing new year round flights from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island as well as direct seasonal flights from Melbourne (check schedules at qantas.com), or catch a ferry from Cape Jervis (bring your car too). Public transport is limited, so four wheels of your own will go a long way. Hire a vehicle in Kingscote, Penneshaw or at the airport.

Image: Julie Fletcher