Originally inhabited by indigenous Australians and later settled by sailors and whalers in the early 1800s, Kangaroo Island is a mere 30-minute flight (70 miles) from Adelaide. Only 93 miles long and 35 miles wide, over one-quarter of the island is made up of national parks and wilderness protection areas. This is a wildlife-rich island, including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and sea lions. Seal Bay Conservation Park hosts a large colony of Australian sea lions. Kangaroo Island has recently added outstanding wineries and its genetically pure Ligurian honey bees to its list of compelling attractions.
Major parts of the western end of Kangaroo Island suffered immensely from the January 2020 bushfires, resulting in the closure of a number of attractions and businesses in and around Flinders Chase National Park. However, the environment, its wildlife inhabitants, and our favorite properties have been largely restored, acting as a testament to the strength and tenacity of the country.
When to travel
Though Kangaroo Island is a full-year travel destination, providing enjoyable temperatures and ample wildlife in each season, Australia’s summer and fall seasons (December – May) are the best times to visit.
Summer (December – February): 75°F highs and 57°F lows. This is fire season, so wildfires are more abundant at this time, more high-risk for asthmatic travelers. This is the best time for water activities including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and surfing. During summer, the beaches on the North coast provide safer and calmer conditions than the crashing waves of South coast beaches. Sealife and bird spotting is most abundant, and it is mating season for koalas and seals. In the daylight hours, wildlife such as kangaroos, koalas, and snakes seek shelter and shade. The animals come out in the evening, however, making for exhilarating nighttime wildlife viewing experiences.
Fall (March – May): 68°F highs and 55°F lows. This is a great time for adventurers/active travelers, as calm temperatures are ample for hiking, bushwalking, and fishing. The environment is characterized by low winds, calm seas, and less rain than in winter & spring seasons. Flora is abundant, with banksia, peapod, flame heath and common heath wildflowers blossoming! Flourishing lush, green plants combined with common wildlife encounters make for genuinely beautiful travel experience in Kangaroo Island’s fall season.
Southern Ocean Lodge
We were saddened to hear that Southern Ocean Lodge was destroyed in the bushfires that spread with speed and ferocity across the western end of Kangaroo Island in January 2020. Our hearts go out to South Australian Country Fire Service as well as the lodge team during this difficult time. James and Hayley Baillie, proprietors of Southern Ocean Lodge took a leading role in both restoring the lodge and helping to rebuild the tourism industry on Kangaroo Island.
Luckily, this 25-suite Lodge was reopened on December 6, 2023!
Situated on the clifftops of Kangaroo Island, the completely rebuilt Southern Ocean Lodge boasts unfettered views of the Southern Ocean coastline with ample opportunities for viewing wildlife. The architecturally striking and eco-friendly Southern Ocean Lodge is Kangaroo Island’s version of Chief’s Camp in Botswana and Explora in Patagonia and Chile — an essential stop in Australia!
Hamilton & Dune
Located in Emu Bay, on the eastern coast of Kangaroo Island, Hamilton & Dune is a boutique, luxury property with only two houses (Hamilton House & Dune House). Holding up to 6 and 5 guests respectively, larger family groups can opt for booking both houses for an even more exclusive experience. There is a full-board option for dining as well as additional services available on request such as house massages or yoga sessions. During your stay here, you will have a personal concierge to arrange various excursions around the island. Hamilton House was completely renovated in 2018 and both houses are located just steps away from Emu Bay’s turquoise water, white sandy beach, jetty, and boat ramp. These eclectic beach house style properties, accompanied by a picturesque setting is ideal for a family trip to Kangaroo Island.
Private & Group Outdoor Activities
Penneshaw and Emu Bay — Experience the turquoise waters and sandy beaches of Penneshaw and Emu Bay. You will also have the opportunity to swim with dolphins here!
Kayak Adventure Guided — Adventure paddle along the calm waters of the Cygnet River.
Beach Fishing — Cast a line into the Southern Ocean, immersed in the solitude of the landscape, and maybe catch dinner!
Guided Adventure Hikes — A range of easy to medium-grade treks are available for avid bushwalkers to enjoy
Half-Day Special Interest Tours — There is a diverse range of private experiences available on the island, from the epicurean to the artistic, water-based, or specific family interests.
