Rediscovering Kangaroo Island
Posted 28 August, 2020
James Gratton
After bushfires ravaged Kangaroo Island in December and January, there’s never been a better time to get behind its tight-knit community and explore its abundant beauty.
From the second you jump off the ferry in Penneshaw, you’ll be inundated with amazing landscapes and untouched wilderness.
From the crystal-clear waters of Vivonne Bay to the sprawling sand dunes of Little Sahara, there’s plenty on KI to make your holiday one to remember.
Here are our top tips for exploring KI and, in the process, supporting local businesses.
How to get there
Getting to Kangaroo Island from Adelaide is relatively simple, whether you’re taking your own car or picking up a hire car on arrival.
Kangaroo Island SeaLink operates a ferry service from mainland SA to KI that runs 7 days a week. The ferry leaves from Cape Jervis, which is a 90-minute drive from Adelaide and arrives in Penneshaw.
Members can save on passenger fares on the Sealink ferry when booking through RAA.
While the drive to Cape Jervis is fairly straight forward, thanks to the multi-lane Southern Expressway, you can break up your journey by stopping at Normanville.
Swing by One Little Sister, a cosy eatery just off the main street, where you’ll get your caffeine fix and some delicious homemade cakes.
Make sure you allow plenty of time to make it to Cape Jervis though, as you need to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
If you’re lucky, you might be able to spot some dolphins or seals playing in the shallows, before you board your ferry.
Rest and relaxation
If you’re interested in recharging your batteries, Kangaroo Island is the place for you.
While there are plenty of options for adventure-seekers, KI has long been a favourite for travellers looking to relax.
Dudley Wines is the ideal place to taste some of the island’s excellent produce while taking in the panoramic views.
You can also stop by Kangaroo Island Spirits, just outside Kingscote, to taste some of their award-winning gin.
While you’re in the area, stop past Clifford’s Honey Farm, home to world-famous Ligurian honey products.
The Ligurian bees on KI are believed to be the last remaining pure strain of the insect anywhere in the world.
After a relaxing day of tasting your way around the island, take a load off at Ecopia Retreat.
Situated on 150 acres of natural wilderness near Seal Bay, the retreat offers the best of both worlds.
Feast your eyes on uninterrupted views of the neighbouring wildlife, then indulge in all the luxury facilities you’d normally find in lavish hotels.
Adventure and excitement
Adrenaline junkies don’t have to look far for their next adventure when visiting Kangaroo Island.
On land, Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action will take you on a high-speed quadbike tour of 500 acres of bushland near Vivonne Bay.
The 4-wheel adventure will give you a rare glimpse of parts of the island that are slowly recovering after last year’s fires.
While on the water, you can get a glimpse of the local marine life on board one of
Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari’s tour boats.
If you’re feeling daring, jump in the water to get up close and personal with wild dolphins and seals.
