Hop to It: The Best Things to Do on Kangaroo Island
From an afternoon spent under an enchanted fig tree, to spending the day at one of Australia's best beaches, we've rounded up the best things to do on Kangaroo Island.
Can’t decide where to take your next mini-break? Why not check out one of Australia's most unique holiday destinations, the coastal and nature-filled gem of South Australia, Kangaroo Island?
Perfect for a chilled escape and nature lovers, you can surround yourself with natural beauty, mesmerising wildlife, locally sourced food, scenic experiences and some of the best cellar doors and tasty wines you could ask for.
Before you book your flight or board the ferry, save this guide to guarantee an unforgettable trip - these are the best things to do on Kangaroo Island!
Visit One of the Best Beaches in Australia
Experience the unexpected beauty of Stokes Bay, crowned Australia's best beach in 2023. Tucked away on Kangaroo Island's secluded North Coast, this hidden gem starts with a mysterious entrance, leading through massive boulders to reveal a tranquil beach and rock pools protected from the pounding surf. Perfect for families, the rockpool offers safe swimming and snorkelling, while the surf beach beckons surfers and beach fishers.
Sitchu Tip: Don't miss the nearby Rockpool Cafe for a taste of island delights - their fish and chips are scrumptious!
Discover Flinders Chase National Park
Not only home to some of the most incredible views and formations of Kangaroo Island such as the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, Flinders Chase National Park symbolises community and rebuilding from nothing, following on from the devastating bushfires that burnt through 96% of the island in 2020. This magnificent national park covers more than 326 square kilometres and is where you will likely encounter kangaroos, sea lions, koalas, plenty of bird life and breathtaking viewpoints on your travels.
For a gram-worthy pic, the windy road of Cape du Couedic Road begs to be captured. One of South Australia's most picturesque roads, it leads to Bunker Hill, offering sweeping vistas that stretch to Remarkable Rocks and the mesmerising Yakka flats. Standing atop this vantage point, one can't help but be awestruck by the vastness of Flinders Chase, a natural wonder begging to be explored and admired.
Celebrate Kangaroo Island's Local Producers
You'll have to don your winter woollies and brave the wind and rain for this one, but the chance to celebrate the Kangaroo Island locals' determination and exceptional produce makes it worth it! A relatively new event in KI, this annual celebration takes place in the heart of winter, and Gutsy is best for those unafraid of the cold.
Cosy up by the roaring fires with a glass (or two) of red as you wait for your warm meal to cook, and experience life like a local, with meals at The Shearing Shed, festivals at Dudley Wines, parties and immersive feasting experiences.
2025 dates TBA, check out the website to stay up to date.
Drive Along Emu Bay Beach
Have you ever driven a 4WD along impossibly white, smooth sand, with crystal clear waters as your companion to the side? At Emu Bay Beach, you can do exactly that. One of the best free things to do on Kangaroo Island, Emu Bay has long been regarded as one of the best beaches in South Australia, thanks to the pristine conditions, expansive shoreline and direct vehicle access. As Kangaroo Island is best explored with a vehicle, be sure to add a drive and a swim at Emu Bay to your itinerary, and if you're lucky, you may even spot some wildlife along the way.
Hamilton Drive, Emu Bay
Spot Koalas at Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to diverse wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and echidnas, this sanctuary offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the island's natural beauty through a pre-booked guided tour. Take a stroll along scenic walking trails, marvel at the stunning coastal views, and experience the wonder of encountering native Australian wildlife in their natural habitat.
Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary promises an unforgettable back-to-nature experience, with a deeper understanding of wildlife resistance following the 2020 KI bushfire that swept through the sanctuary.
7797 South Coast Road, Karatta
The Fig Tree
A Bucket-List-worthy experience, you cannot look past Gastronomo’s showstopping dining at The Fig Tree. Bringing out the Island’s fairy tale feel, once upon a time a small fig tree was planted on Kangaroo Island to provide food. Over a century later, guests are now invited to settle in for a 3-hour lunch within the sun-dappled limbs of the 120-year-old tree beneath a canopy of shimmering leaves.
You’ll sip on a welcome cocktail within the twisted limbs made with Kangaroo Island Spirits alongside delicious canapes. You will then venture through the ‘entrance’ of the tree into natural dining rooms, decked out with whimsical table settings. Sit down and enjoy a feast of native foraged foods in an enchanting setting you won't soon forget.
This experience is available in seasonal periods throughout spring, summer and autumn
5995 North Coast Road, Middle River, Kangaroo Island
Enjoy Lunch with a View
The team at Dudley Wines focuses on tasteful wines, and while it isn't a full-blown restaurant, the views across to mainland Australia at this family-owned venue make it a must-visit. Settle into your sitting with a glass of 100% Kangaroo Island wine on the spacious lawn, enjoying woodfired pizzas hailed as some of the island's best, and seal the deal with the gluten-free choc fudge brownie we can't stop raving about. You can browse local treasures like All Season’s clothing and KI artworks on-site, and swing by the one-hole, one-par golf course.
1153 Cape Willoughby Road, Cuttlefish Bay
Explore Vivonne Bay Beach
Work your way down to the south coast of Kangaroo Island and spend some time on the ridiculously picturesque beach. Also voted one of Australia’s top beaches (a running theme for Kangaroo Island's exquisite coastline), Vivonne Bay offers stretches of white sand and sparkling blue water. Stock up on goodies from the General Store – complete with a bottle shop and a fish and chip counter before enjoying a postcard-perfect seaside picnic.
Bayview Road, Vivonne Bay
Get Acquainted With a Cellar Door or Two
A KI cellar door is always only a stone's throw away, and finding one for an afternoon of tasty drinks and unbeatable views is a quintessential island experience. Wine fan? Check out False Cape Wines or Bay of Shoal Wines. Fond of a pint? It’s Kangaroo Island Brewing for you. Maybe after an unforgettable day sipping spirits? Visit the iconic Kangaroo Island Spirits cellar door for tastings or a gin blending course.
Lose Yourself In Lavender Heaven
Visit Emu Bay Lavender Farm and surround yourself with beautiful, fragrant floral bliss. Open year-round but in full bloom during summer, you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, a cheeky tipple or afternoon tea before getting that perfect Instagram shot in the lavender field. Offering a sweet moment amongst your jam-packed days on the island, it's the perfect spot to grab a sweet-smelling momento.
205 Emu Bay Road, Wisanger
Take an Ocean Safari
Living up to its name, Kangaroo Island boasts an abundance of wildlife, but we're not just talking about kangaroos this time. Book the whole gang into an unforgettable day trip on the Ocean Safari, where you’re offered a range of options including swimming with dolphins and seals, snorkelling, or staying on board and enjoying the sights from the boat. However you choose to explore the abundance of marine life, you'll be blown away by these friendly creatures on your journey.
Tours depart from Penneshaw
Sunbathe With The Seals
Want to find some furry friends in their natural habitat? Take a trip to Seal Bay for a day of beautiful beaches, perfect BBQ spots, and a load of sea lions. You’ll learn about the magnificent and largely unbothered endangered species that inhabit the bay, and how they’re being protected to stick around well into the future. If you prefer to go at your own pace, the self-guided boardwalk will be suited to you.
Seal Bay Road, Kangaroo Island
Treat Yourself to a Luxury Stay
Escape into secluded bliss in one of the four luxury, eco-aware WanderPods resting atop the northern bluff overlooking Snelling Beach. Named after constellations only seen in the southern skies, their names relate to the great oceans, rivers, sea creatures and ships (the Carina, the Columba, the Vela and the Pyxis). Choose the 5-star pod to suit your every need - they have wood-burning fires for cosiness, an outdoor bathtub and a private deck with panoramic views to catch the spectacular sunrise or sunset.
For a getaway that will change the way you look at luxury accommodation, One Kangaroo Island is a bucket list beauty worth its weight in sustainability and scenery.
Stowaway's boutique accommodation offers complete indulgence, luxury and seclusion. The views across the ocean, farmland and native bushland can be enjoyed across all four properties, best suited for couples and complete with hot tubs, saunas, wood fires and chic amenities.
Loving our guide to the best things to do on Kangaroo Island and inspired to plan your next getaway? Check out our favourite tiny cabins in South Australia or the best stylish stays in the Adelaide Hills.
