Guide to Kangaroo Island

Revel in the sanctuary of Southern Ocean Lodge, where sweeping ocean views, indulgent local dining and tailored island experiences are just a few of the elements that will make your stay so utterly divine.

At Seal Bay, walk among the Australian sea lion colony, watching mothers rest, pups playing and males squabbling. Stroll the short boardwalk independently, or join a guided tour to learn about these endangered animals.

With fertile farms and pristine ocean, the island is a foodie’s delight. Sample pure Ligurian-bee honey, taste a ‘Chatter Platter’ from Millie Mae’s pantry, or local oysters and King George whiting at The Oyster Farm Shop. Discover local produce.

Visit the sand dunes of Little Sahara to explore your way. For thrills and spills, slide down on a toboggan or sandboard. Try a guided tour on a fat bike, or strap in for an open buggy tour through the dunes, spotting koalas in trees.

Right on a secluded beach, One KI is a fully-hosted five-bedroom eco-retreat. Relish the incredible beach views with your family and friends and, after your chef-prepared dinner, relax in the private outdoor bathtub under the stars. 

A fig tree planted on Kangaroo Island more than 100 years ago has grown to become an enchanting dinner destination. From December to April, savour a delicious meal surrounded by gnarled branches and dazzling fairy lights for a magical experience.

Visit Emu Bay Lavender, a working farm where you’ll find over 7,500 lavender plants grown to produce essential oils for handmade therapeutic goods. Stop in at the farm café for breakfast, lunch or over-sized lavender scones. 

Jump in with the wild bottlenose dolphins as they choose to interact with you, swimming right up for a close inspection. Tours run all year and include morning tea on a remote beach. Tours often spot seals, rays and sea eagles.

Kangaroo Island is home to a diverse array of wineries, with a handful of breweries, a distillery, and a cidery thrown in for good measure. Drop in to some of the cellar doors and meet the characters behind the drinks. Plan your tasting.

The island is famous for its wildlife, but some of the fascinating animals are well hidden. Join an expert guide on an escorted day tour to discover wild koalas, unique kangaroos and wallabies, birds and maybe a shy echidna.

Explore the island’s incredible physical features, like the aptly named Remarkable Rocks. Don’t miss the Admiral’s Arch, an open-ended cavern to the sea where New Zealand fur seals play, and the beaches, like glittering Stokes Bay.

For those with adequate fitness, the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail traverses the island’s southwest. Supported by a guide, you’ll see some of the most spectacular landmarks while learning about the bushfire regeneration occurring.