Complete Guide to Visiting Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Kangaroo Island, or KI as locals call it, is one of Australia’s most pristine natural destinations. Located just off the coast of South Australia, this 4,400-square-kilometer island is a sanctuary for native wildlife, secluded beaches, rugged coastal cliffs, and gourmet food producers. It’s the ultimate destination for travelers looking to unplug, explore, and experience Australia’s wild side — with all the creature comforts still intact.

In this comprehensive Kangaroo Island travel guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to plan your trip — from how to get there and where to stay to what to do, eat, and pack for a safe and memorable adventure.

Why Visit Kangaroo Island?
Kangaroo Island offers a rare chance to explore untamed Australia. Over a third of the island is protected in national parks and conservation areas. Here, kangaroos and koalas live freely, seals sunbathe on beaches, and the stars blaze at night. Visitors come for:
- Wildlife in the wild, not behind glass
- Secluded beaches and scenic coastal drives
- Local produce, from honey to oysters and wine
- Adventure activities like sandboarding and hiking
- Peaceful escapes far from crowds

It’s ideal for couples, families, road trippers, photographers, and anyone craving a slower pace.

How to Get to Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island is accessible by ferry or plane from mainland South Australia.

By Ferry (Most Popular)
- Operated by SeaLink
- Departs from Cape Jervis, 2 hours from Adelaide
- 45-minute crossing to Penneshaw
- Passenger and vehicle options available
- Book in advance, especially in peak season

By Plane
- Flights from Adelaide Airport to Kingscote Airport (30 min)
- Operated by Rex Airlines
- Great option for short trips, but car rental is still necessary on the island

Getting Around the Island
Public transport is nonexistent — you’ll need a car to explore freely. Options include:
- Bring your own vehicle on the ferry
- Rent a car in Kingscote or Penneshaw
- 4WD is not essential but helpful for exploring remote areas
- Fuel stations are limited, so top up in Kingscote or Penneshaw

Driving is straightforward, but watch for wildlife — especially at dawn and dusk.

Where to Stay on Kangaroo Island
From beachside cabins to luxury eco-lodges, KI has accommodation for every traveler.

Luxury
- Southern Ocean Lodge – Ultra-luxurious, all-inclusive cliffside retreat
- Lifetime Private Retreats – Architectural homes along the north coast
- Ecopia Retreat – Off-grid luxury in the island’s heart

Mid-Range
- Kangaroo Island Seafront (Penneshaw)
- Aurora Ozone Hotel (Kingscote)
- Mercure KI Lodge (American River)

Budget & Camping
- Kangaroo Island Coastal Villas
- Western KI Caravan Park
- Vivonne Bay Campground

Top Things to Do on Kangaroo Island
1. Flinders Chase National Park – Iconic Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch
2. Seal Bay Conservation Park – Guided boardwalks to sea lion colonies
3. Vivonne Bay – Pristine white sand beach
4. Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park – Koalas, kangaroos, reptiles
5. Stokes Bay – Hidden beach through a rock tunnel
6. Little Sahara – Inland sand dunes for sandboarding
7. Emu Bay – Long drive-on beach with dolphins

Food & Drink
Foodies will love the farm-to-plate freshness. Highlights include:
- Island Beehive – Home to Ligurian bees
- Island Pure Sheep Dairy – Artisan cheeses
- Clifford’s Honey Farm – Honey ice cream
- Bay of Shoals Wines – Rosé and views
- The Islander Estate Vineyards – French winemaking style
- KIS Distillery – Award-winning gins
- The Oyster Farm Shop – Local oysters in American River
- The Enchanted Fig Tree – Dine beneath a living fig tree

Safety Tips
- Fill up on fuel often
- Watch for animals on the road
- Bring groceries in advance
- Expect weak phone signal
- Drive cautiously, especially at night

3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive, visit Seal Bay and Little Sahara, dine in American River
Day 2: Explore Flinders Chase, sunset at Stokes Bay
Day 3: Visit KI Wildlife Park, swim at Vivonne Bay, return

Final Thoughts
Kangaroo Island is raw, rugged, and restorative. Whether you’re after nature, wildlife, photography, or seafood, it offers a truly unplugged Australian adventure.