5 reasons to visit Kangaroo Island

Packed with out-of-this-world wildlife, flavours and sights, Kangaroo Island continues to be celebrated as one of Australia’s most remarkable destinations. Despite growing popularity with visitors, the island still offers a sense of raw beauty and natural magic. 

Whether visiting as a foodie, explorer, or seeker of secluded beaches, Kangaroo Island offers a diverse range of unforgettable experiences.

1. Explore Kangaroo Island's natural attractions

Two of Kangaroo Island’s premier attractions, Admiral’s Arch and Remarkable Rocks, are geological spectacles millions of years in the making. 

Admiral's Arch, formed through the erosion of a sea cliff, is now home to a thriving colony of New Zealand fur seals. Between fishing expeditions out at sea, they rest along horizontal slabs of limestone, occasionally joined by their lighter-coloured cousin, the Australian fur seals.

Visitor infrastructure has been carefully designed to protect these environments while enhancing accessibility. Wooden boardwalks leading to the prime viewing spots have kept admirers off the rocks, helping minimise disturbance to the seals while protecting their resting habitat.

At Remarkable Rocks, climb over granite boulders that have been shaped by 500 million years of wind, rain and sea spray. Like an open-air natural art gallery, the scale of the formations and swirling patterns is best admired at sunrise and sunset.

2. Luxury accommodation on Kangaroo Island

Stunning natural surrounds are matched by equally impressive architecture, with Kangaroo Island offering a growing range of luxury accommodation that reflects the island’s landscape.

Southern Ocean Lodge, the island’s flagship luxury resort near Flinders Chase National Park, is a striking, spaceship-like retreat perched dramatically above the rugged coastline.

The five-star hotel offers one of the world’s great arrival experiences. The space opens to a sunken lounge with a suspended central fireplace, all framed by floor-to-ceiling glazing that captures sweeping 180-degree views of rugged coastline, sandy beaches and wild ocean stretching uninterrupted toward Antarctica.

Another standout is One Kangaroo Island, offering secluded luxury as part of an exclusive private retreat collection. When you’re not gazing at the crystalline waters, you’re soaking in the outdoor bath or indulging in a private, chef-prepared three-course dining experience featuring the finest local produce and wines.

3. Kangaroo Island food, wine and local produce

When on Kangaroo Island it pays to tour with your taste buds. More than just a natural playground, it's an epicurean one, with everything from grain-fed beef and free-range geese to artisan Manchego and the island's own Ligurian honey.

Entrepreneurial local producers have diversified into tomatoes, wheat, canola, premium pinot noir and award-winning spirits. In fact, Kangaroo Island wines now attract attention that previously might have been limited to the Barossa Valley.

4. Wildlife encounters on Kangaroo Island

Often dubbed the ‘Galapagos of Australia’ for the uniqueness of its fauna, you don’t have to go far to spy a koala or a kangaroo in the wild. 

Wildlife encounters can include Tamar wallabies (no longer found on mainland Australia), Australian sea lions, Rosenberg’s goannas, white-bellied sea eagles and abundant koala populations. 

In many areas, it is possible to observe multiple species within a single day, reflecting the island’s rich biodiversity.

5. Swimming with dolphins on Kangaroo Island

One of the island’s most memorable experiences is the opportunity to swim alongside wild bottlenose dolphins. These dolphins are frequently seen along the coastline in pods, moving freely through their natural environment as they feed, play and travel along the shore.

In the summer, pods of 50 to 80 dolphins can appear and interact on their own terms, unbothered by human swimmers.

This rare and immersive wildlife encounter is often the highlight of a visit to Kangaroo Island.

Kangaroo Island travel tips 

• Cape Jervis is less than two hours' drive south of Adelaide.
• The ferry journey from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island takes about 45 minutes.
• Hire a car in Adelaide to enjoy the scenic drive to Cape Jervis and take the vehicle ferry across to Kangaroo Island, or rental cars are available on the island.
• For insider knowledge and tailored experiences book a hosted tour with Exceptional Kangaroo Island.
• With exceptional food and wine, abundant wildlife and 23 hiking trails to explore, Kangaroo Island rewards visitors who stay for several days.