If you’re staying in Kingscote, you don’t necessarily need a car. However, most people come by car and I would highly recommend either renting one or coming with your own. It just gives you so much more freedom and opportunity to explore everything Kangaroo Island has to offer. When you’re in Kingscote, you’ll have plenty of options to explore the island or have some fun closer to town. Heading over to the Kangaroo Island Visitor Center is a great day trip because many of the island tours start from there.
As Kangaroo Island’s newest luxury accommodation, Hamilton & Dune’s duo of exclusive lodges overlooking Emu Bay are some of the best places to stay on Kangaroo Island. Bringing a hint of Bali best places to stay kangaroo island to Kangaroo Island, Wildside Ocean Retreat is a luxurious, eco-friendly escape set high in the dunes at KI’s secluded eastern end. With panoramic views over Mouth Flat Beach and private beachfront access, this off-grid hideaway promises barefoot luxury in total seclusion.
A menu of signature treatments features the Australian-made alkeme spa care range alongside Kangaroo Island’s own natural beauty botanicals. Fantastic location, short walk to the beach which is amazing. The house is very comfortable and has everything you need for your stay. The premium Osprey Suite combines striking architectural design with soul stirring panoramic views of the Southern Ocean to create an unforgettable nature-meets-luxury experience. An even more intimate beach holiday can be enjoyed at Sea Dragon Lodge, one of Kangaroo Island’s most luxurious bed and breakfast establishments. Visit the Australian Red Gum Gallery to see pieces made from old Kangaroo Island red gum timber or explore the island-inspired artwork at Fine Art Kangaroo Island.
Penneshaw has a real buzz, with pubs and hostels, whilst postcard-perfect Kingscote feels appealingly laid-back and welcoming. Foodies will find delicious eateries scattered throughout the island, as well as superb farmers’ markets showcasing small-scale local producers. Don’t miss the chance to visit award-winning wineries, honey farms and dairies — many offer excellent tours and tastings. Are you one of those who want to wake up every day to a different view (and after a cheap accommodation on Kangaroo Island!)? When nature is the star attraction, it’s no wonder that so many campgrounds have popped up around KI. Set within 60 hectares of pure nature in a private wildlife sanctuary, Ecopia Retreat offers off-grid luxury with plenty of heart.
You can also take a self-guided drive along D’Estrees Bay Road. Enjoy spectacular sunrises, listen to the waves crashing onto the nearby cliffs and catch glimpses of wildlife – you might even spot a whale from the kitchen window. Located on the eastern end of the island, the park is home to two cottages set on the rugged eastern point of the island overlooking the treacherous Backstairs Passage. Located on Kangaroo Island, off the coast of South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula, the lighthouse keeper’s cottages are just one of the many quirky places to stay.
Coastal luxury gives you the view; Ecopia gives you the immersion. Each of our four retreats (the two rammed-earth Eco Villas, the loft-style Rise, and the three-bedroom Residence) is sited for privacy and framed around the landscape it sits in. Our fully self-contained apartment is set in a peaceful neighbourhood, a short stroll down to the jetty, new boat ramp and famous long white beach. The apartment is on the ground floor of our newly built two storey home. You have private access with no stairs or steps, parking at the front door, a well-lit driveway and entrance, off-street parking for boats, free wifi and reverse cycle air conditioning. The private outdoor area and lounge overlooks our spacious garden with your own BBQ.
Sit on the deck, glass of pinot noir in hand, and try and spot the island’s namesake as well as a supporting cast of possums, wallabies and dolphins. It features a well-equipped kitchen, cosy interiors with heating and cooling, a deck with BBQ and easy access to local nature and wildlife. Surrounded by she-oaks, bushland and glimpses of the ocean, nature is calling you for your next escape, no matter the season. Saltwater is a purpose-built holiday house located on 20 ha (50 acres) of bushland overlooking the tranquil waters of Pelican Lagoon. Completed in 2019, the house is light-filled and airy, with north-facing windows and deck capturing the winter sun and wonderful views of the lagoon and surrounding bush.
It is bordered by thousands of hectares of protected wilderness lands as well as the Great Southern Ocean. It is the gateway to one of South Australia's most iconic wilderness areas and is connected to the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail which provides walking access to Remarkable Rocks. Pristine beaches, spectacular coastline, old growth maritime bush land and forest plus abundant wildlife combine to make this area one of Australia's most awe-inspiring places.
Situated on the water’s edge, you can marvel at the abundance of local wildlife including Kangaroos, wallabies, dolphins, pelicans, seals and much more all form your private deck. Not to mention, Emu Bay is home to some of the coziest cottages and vacation homes on Kangaroo Island, offering easy access to the beach and amazing ocean views. For couples looking to relax, Stokes Bay on the North Coast offers plenty of opportunities for long walks on the beach and picnics with stunning views.
This part of Australia is a total favorite for many being conveniently located near the city of Adelaide, which makes it super easy to get to. Pennington Bay walk is only a 10 to 15 minute drive from American River. Guests are advised to bring food supplies from the mainland as there may be seasonal restrictions... Kangaroo Island sits a mere 15 kilometres from the shores of mainland South Australia. Transport options to and from the island are many and varied for domestic and international travellers.