10 of the best Airbnbs on Kangaroo Island

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Dreaming of a break fuelled by great food and wine, interspersed with nature-based activities and accommodation that feels like home? Here are some of the best Airbnbs on Kangaroo Island.

Kangaroo Island offers much in the way of accommodation. There are incredible luxury stays, and beautiful camping spots and we’ve previously shared our absolute top places to stay, but if you’re after that home-away-from-home feeling you just can’t beat an Airbnb stay. From a quirky cottage in Kingscote to a tried-and-tested eco villa in a wildlife sanctuary, we’ve rounded up the best Airbnbs to book on Kangaroo Island for families, lovers of luxury, romantics, those wanting water views and group getaways, too.

Kangaroo Island Airbnbs with water views

1. Grass Tree North Coast

Stare out at the sea, stretched like a piece of shining blue fabric, from this charming, contemporary cottage set amid a grove of gums and grass trees at Grass Tree North Coast .

Large picture windows frame the sea and sky and highlight the sculptural silhouette of the trees, their twisted limbs outstretched toward the sky. Inside the charming space is all corrugated iron and upcycled timbers with soaring ceilings and a dark and moody designer kitchen.

Sleeps: Grass Tree North Coast accommodates nine guests.

Charming Grass Tree North Coast, Airbnb Villa, Kangaroo Island, SA, Australia
This contemporary cottage is set amid a grove of gums and grass trees at Grass Tree North Coast.

2. Blue Seas

Blue Seas is a contemporary retreat that has slick wood and corrugated iron curves, a Flinstones-like exterior and oversized porthole windows that let in an abundance of natural light. Highly coveted at the D’Estrees Bay beach house are the sun-loungers on the deck, which you will want to remain glued to for days. The only traffic you will see from here is the boats gliding through the Southern Ocean.

Sleeps: Blue Seas accommodates six guests.

Blue Seas, Airbnb Villa, Kangaroo Island, SA, Australia
Blue Seas is a contemporary retreat that has slick wood and corrugated iron curves.

Best Airbnbs on Kangaroo Island for families

3. Blakeney Holiday Home

The outside world looks pretty bright from the lounge room of this functional family home , which boasts some of the best views of Emu Bay. Watch the sea ripple against the shore from the deck, build sandcastles on the beach with your toddler, flick your teen the free wi-fi code and give your in-laws the best bedroom.

Sleeps: Blakeney Holiday Home accommodates eight guests comfortably.

Blakeney Holiday House Airbnb Kangaroo Island
Blakeney Holiday House is a cosy family home with incredible views of Emu Bay.

4. Nat’s Retreat

The sun sends glints of light glittering off the water that arcs around Nat’s Retreat , the oldest inhabited house in South Australia. History buffs will love the fact the faithfully restored house, located on a headland overlooking Antechamber Bay, was built more than two centuries ago by pioneering English sailor Nat Thomas. Kick back on the veranda, lounge on the lawn, or bounce down to the beach to swim with the dolphins.

Sleeps: Nat’s Retreat is located on a working farm and sleeps eight.

Nat’s Retreat, Airbnb Villa in Kangaroo Island, SA, Australia
Nat’s Retreat is the oldest inhabited house in South Australia.

Best Airbnbs on Kangaroo Island for romance

5. The Nest

Ready to pop the question? You can propose in style when you book a stay at The Nest , on Kangaroo Island, which sets the scene for romance with its outdoor hot tub and log fire.

It matters not if you get cold feet as you can still spend the weekend swanning about in fluffy robes, curled up with a good book in the window nook, and admiring the view from the glass-fronted sauna. Stay put and enjoy the seclusion of this private escape or explore nearby Lathami Conservation Park.

Sleeps: The Nest accommodates two guests.

The Nest Airbnb Kangaroo Island - bay window
Stay put and enjoy the seclusion of this private escape.
The Nest Airbnb Kangaroo Island - private hot tub
Soak up the romance in the outdoor hot tub.

6. Wandering Souls Exclusive bell tent

Visit the Bay of Shoals winery, stock up on wines from the cellar door, and then wander over to your Wandering Souls exclusive bell tent where you can bunker down for the night.

You can choose between tents such as the Harper, which has a Hamptons Coast feel, the Romani Traveller, much-loved by boho types, or the Matilda tent, which has contemporary Australian accents. If you’re more of a hardcore camper, there are plenty of places to camp on Kangaroo Island.

Sleeps: The bell tents accommodate two guests.

Inside the bell tents of Wandering Souls Kangaroo Island
Bunker down for the night in your Wandering Souls bell tent.

Best Airbnbs on Kangaroo Island for luxury

7. Ecopia Retreat

You are more likely to cross paths with the resident echidnas during your stay at Ecopia Retreat than guests staying in the second cabin. The off-grid contemporary villas are in a dream location for nature lovers with panoramic views of the lacquered green landscape, which bristles with native grasses, like stubble on a chin. These single-level, self-contained properties feature gleaming wood floors, a cosy wood fireplace, and a freestanding bath.

Sleeps: The cabins accommodate two guests.

Ecopia RetreatAirbnb Villa in Kangaroo Island, SA, Australia
Ecopia Retreat is in a dream location for nature lovers.

8. Copperstone Kangaroo Island

Commandeer the best spot on the couch at Copperstone KI , an architecturally up-to-the-minute beach house overlooking Emu Bay. Standout features include the ocean views from every room, the indoor and outdoor fireplaces and underfloor heating. The house comprises two pavilions with sliding glass doors that open out onto a deck with ocean views. The property may or may not be favoured by privacy-seeking celebrities aiming to avoid the paparazzi.

Sleeps: Copperstone Kangaroo Island accommodates up to eight guests.

Copperstone KI, Airbnb Villa in Kangaroo Island, SA, Australia
Commandeer the best spot on the couch at Copperstone KI.

Best Airbnbs on Kangaroo Island for groups

9. The Harbourmaster

The Harbourmaster makes the most of Kangaroo Island’s open landscape with views that take in beautiful Hog Bay. The stylish holiday home sleeps 10 guests, and has convivial communal spaces, making it perfect for a group getaway. You can choose to fish, surf, swim or eat and drink your way around Kangaroo Island or simply sunbathe on the patio. Watch out for the wallabies and kangaroos that bound by at dawn and dusk.

Sleeps: The Harbourmaster accommodates 10 guests.

The Harbourmaster, Airbnb Villa in Kangaroo Island, SA, Australia
The stylish holiday home is perfect for a group getaway.

10. Secluded Grass Tree KI Coastal Retreat

Groups will have Secluded Grass Tree KI Coastal Retreat on the Dudley Peninsula to themselves. And, best of all, each person can carve off and choose their own adventure: go surfing or sailing or stay on terra firma and pursue energetic bush walks, a tour of the local wineries, or a local cookery lesson, just a few of the many wonderful things to do while on Kangaroo Island. Turn the lights off at night and step outside to enjoy the natural spectacle of being under a ceiling of stars.

Sleeps: Secluded Grass Tree KI Coastal Retreat accommodates up to 10 guests.

Secluded Grass Tree KI Coastal Retreat, Airbnb Villa in Kangaroo Island, SA, Australia
Groups will have Secluded Grass Tree KI Coastal Retreat on the Dudley Peninsula to themselves.
Carla Grossetti
Carla Grossetti avoided accruing a HECS debt by accepting a cadetship with News Corp. at the age of 18. After completing her cadetship at The Cairns Post Carla moved south to accept a position at The Canberra Times before heading off on a jaunt around Canada, the US, Mexico and Central America. During her career as a journalist, Carla has successfully combined her two loves – of writing and travel – and has more than two decades experience switch-footing between digital and print media. Carla’s CV also includes stints at delicious., The Sydney Morning Herald, and The Australian, where she specialises in food and travel. Carla also based herself in the UK where she worked at Conde Nast Traveller, and The Sunday Times’ Travel section before accepting a fulltime role as part of the pioneering digital team at The Guardian UK. Carla and has been freelancing for Australian Traveller for more than a decade, where she works as both a writer and a sub editor.
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7 things you must experience on a getaway to Echuca Moama

Those dreaming of a river escape that’s less rush and more rest will discover the perfect getaway in Echuca Moama.

Best known for summer river holidays, Echuca Moama dishes up extraordinary options for those craving good food, experiences and culture. Discover how best to spend your getaway in this gorgeous river town.

1. Find unique stays in Echuca Moama

Goolwa River Retreat villas
Bathe under the stars at Goolwa River Retreat.

An adventure here starts with the perfect place to stay. Echuca Moama is famous for its luxury houseboats. Be spoilt for choice with amenities like spas, chef’s kitchens and en-suites onboard Murray River Houseboats and Echuca Luxury Houseboats .

For those who prefer to stay on dry land to sleep, there’s no shortage of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. The villas at Goolwa River Retreat offer spectacular views of the Murray Riverfront, cosy evenings by the fire pit. And, a truly unique and luxurious experience: bathing under the stars in an outdoor bathtub.

Families travelling with young kids will appreciate the fully self-contained cabins, which sleep up to six, at NRMA Echuca Holiday Park . Complete with BBQ facilities and a kids’ playground, Echuca Holiday Park is the perfect base for families exploring the Echuca Moama region.

More adventurous guests can experience off-grid serenity at Carriages Water Front Retreat , where they can slumber among the redgums in a lovingly converted vintage train carriage.

If you prefer a more central place to stay, the Mercure Port of Echuca is located just five minutes from the Port of Echuca on foot and offers comfortable rooms, as well as easy access to all the region has to offer.

2. Explore the Murray River

PaddlesteamerS on the Murray River
Jump aboard one of Echuca Moama’s famous paddlesteamers.

A trip to Echuca Moama isn’t complete without seeing the Murray River. Take in views from the water, with Murray River Paddlesteamers and Echuca Paddlesteamers Or combine sightseeing with lunch at a local winery or brewery on a Wharf to Winery or Port to Plate cruise .

Those who prefer an active holiday can hire a stand-up paddleboard with Echuca SUP  to explore the river. Duck under the historic Echuca Moama Bridge and listen out for local wildlife. At the end of your paddleboarding trip, you’ll find a shuttle service to return you to the car park.

Kayaking is another great option if you like to combine seeing the sights with a full-body workout. Hire a kayak from River Country Adventours , or join a river safari for a guided experience.

3. Go hiking and biking in Echuca Moama

two bikers riding on the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail
Peddle along the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail.

On foot or by bike, there are plenty of trails to explore the region. Embark on a guided e-bike tour with Green Pedal (or hire an e-bike and go it alone) to explore the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail . Traverse through beautiful bushland and the scenic Waranga Basin. Bakeries and picnic areas in the historic town of Rushworth provide the perfect place for refreshments.

Day trip to the lookout at Whroo Forest, near the now-abandoned Whroo township, located on historic Balaclava Hill. The Hill was once the site of Victoria’s largest open-cut gold mine and home to a thriving town. Today, the area offers picturesque walking tracks and picnic sites.

4. Taste Echuca Moama’s best dining options

lobster dish on the table at opa in echuca moama
Taste delicious, authentic Greek at Opa. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Whether you like a candlelit dinner or a coffee in the sunshine, Echuca Moama is ready to delight your taste buds.

Pop into Opa for authentic Greek fare with views of the town from its upstairs balcony. Enjoy seasonal produce at The Mill , offering everything from global street food and share plates to classic dinner and dessert options inside a historic building.

Discover a local secret at Monkee and Co , a relaxed Asian-fusion restaurant serving up classics like Banh Mi and dumplings.

Start the day with excellent coffee and waterfront views at the family-run Watson St Pavilion .

5. Drink at Echuca Moama’s best bars

two people drinking cockatails at paradise bar in echuca moama
Cheers to neon at Paradise Bar.

Top-notch tipples can be found at Paradise Bar , a new cocktail bar serving up handcrafted cocktails to delight the taste buds in the heart of Echuca. The menu features classics like mojitos, margs, and spritzers. As well as Paradise’s own creations featuring funky ingredients like bubble gum syrup and an Old Fashioned with truffle oil.

Bar Lee at the Echuca Distillery is the place to go to watch the sun go down at the rooftop bar, taste Echuca’s locally made spirits and nibble your way through an exceptional selection of share plates.

For river views, excellent service and a more than extensive wine menu, head to Social Wine Bar . You’ll find a laid-back atmosphere in the riverfront beer garden that sprawls out under an ancient pine tree and a cosy interior perfect for hiding away on a cool evening.

6. Follow local art trails

Silo Art Trail
Jump in the car and follow the Silo Art Trail.

The region’s silos have been transformed into impressive, towering canvases depicting local fauna, Echuca’s historical links to industry and the building of the local railroad. Follow the Silo Art Trail by car, which takes between three and four hours.

Rochester Mural Park is home to an annual lineup of changing murals, while the Rochester Mural Festival showcases established and emerging artists.

7. Dive into local history

Echuca Port Museum and Penny Tourism
See the historic Port of Echuca.

The Echuca Moama region is bursting with history. Among its historical treasures is the Port of Echuca . Interactive displays showcase the port’s importance to historical trade along the river, industrial sites like the Evans Brothers Sawmill and the Port of Echuca railway station with its very own heritage steam train.

The displays pay homage to the site’s significance to the local Yorta Yorta People and their ancestral connection to the land where the Murray, Campaspe and Goulburn Rivers meet.

Explore the port independently or join a guided tour to learn from Echuca’s history buffs.

Learn more and start planning the perfect holiday to Echuca Moama at visitechucamoama.com.au.