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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This is Mornington Peninsula’s most indulgent itinerary

    Kellie FloydBy Kellie Floyd
    The Mornington Peninsula blends vineyards, galleries, golf and delicious finds for an unforgettable getaway that indulges all penchants. 

    Just over an hour from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula blends coast and country in a way that feels effortlessly indulgent. It’s a region where vineyard views meet acclaimed dining, art and culture is never far from the sea, and where hot springs bubble alongside rolling fairways. Whether your escape is a long lunch, an immersive art trail or a round of golf, the Mornington Peninsula has an itinerary to match. And there’s always a glass of good local pinot waiting for you at the end of the day.  

    A creative trail through the Peninsula 

    The Mornington Peninsula is a haven for artists and creatives. Its coastal views and rolling landscapes have long been a source of inspiration. Stay at the historical InterContinental Sorrento , a grand hotel established in 1875, recently renovated to blend heritage charm with contemporary elegance. With curated art lining the hotel’s corridors and rooms, you could spend hours simply wandering the halls, studying the walls. 

    Pt Leo Estate outdoor gallery
    Wander around Pt. Leo Estate’s outdoor gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria/Jesse Hisco)

    If looking for an outdoor gallery with sea views, head to Pt. Leo Estate , a landscaped vineyard home to a sculpture park featuring more than 70 large-scale works by both local and international artists, all easily accessible by connecting paths. After strolling through the vineyards, there are three dining options: fine dining at Laura, a relaxed meal at Pt. Leo Restaurant or a vino at the Wine Terrace. For something more hands-on, sign up for the Sip & Sketch experience. And if you book directly into the elegant Lancemore at Lindenderry Red Hill , you’ll enjoy free access to the sculpture park.  

    food at Pt Estate
    Pt Leo Estate boasts three elegant dining venues. (Image: Visit Victoria/Two Palms/Arianna Harry)

    For those who like their art framed by rolling hills, vines and wetlands, Montalto is the place. More than 30 sculptures are dotted throughout the property. The vineyard offers a formal restaurant and casual tables among the seasonal produce in a setting that feels like Mr. McGregor’s Garden from Peter Rabbit. And there’s always the option to picnic on the lawn.  

    Montalto Vineyard
    Montalto Vineyard is an idyllic setting for afternoon wining and dining. (Image: Visit Victoria/Robyn Lea)

    The Sorrento-Portsea Artists Trail offers a self-guided walk along bush paths and sea cliffs to see the same landscapes that once inspired brushstrokes of some of Australia’s most famous artists. Along the way, interpretive signs share insights into the area’s artistic past. And, if the peninsula’s weather turns a little wild, the region is brimming with galleries, particularly around Flinders, Sorrento and Red Hill. Artisan studios are open by appointment.  

    A feast for food and wine lovers 

    With more than 200 vineyards, around 60 wineries and cellar doors, plus an abundance of breweries, distilleries, orchards and family-run farms spanning generations, the Mornington Peninsula is a playground for food and wine enthusiasts.  

    Cassis Red Hill
    Luxurious stay, Cassis Red Hill.

    The perfect base for a culinary inclined trip is Cassis Red Hill , where luxury accommodation is tucked between grape vines and olive trees. A quiet nod to the fishing village of Cassis in the south of France, this retreat is all about contemporary elegance – crisp linen, sunlit interiors and a private mineral plunge pool. 

    Then, for a stand-out lunch, Green Olive at Red Hill offers a delicious way to enjoy the region. Graze on generous tasting plates with house-made relishes, lamb sausages, local cheese and just-picked garden produce. Pair it with a wine flight or order a picnic hamper to enjoy among the olive grove; there’s a picnic option for your dog, too. And for a playful twist, Green Olive is home to what is believed to be Australia’s only pickleball court set within a vineyard or orchard.  

    Amid the many wineries with open cellar doors, Main Ridge Dairy offers a delicious detour – a goat dairy where you can sample handcrafted cheeses and even meet the resident goats. For a more refined experience, Paringa Estate is one of the peninsula’s most awarded wineries, offering fine dining with sweeping vineyard views and a menu crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.   

    If you’re looking to step outdoors before a lingering lunch, during winter Flinders Truffles offer the chance to join their clever dogs and search for the black gold under oak trees. For an authentic taste of the region, time your visit with one of the Peninsula’s vibrant farmers’ markets.

    From golf days to spa stays 

    Kingswood CountryGolf Club
    Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    With its champion courses, the Peninsula is a dream destination not only for those who love to tee off but for those who enjoy the post-golf wind down. Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club draws keen golfers from around the world, while Peppers Moonah Links Resort is a course that has hosted both a PGA tournament and two Australian Opens. For a true test of skill, The Dunes Golf Links is one of Australia’s top public courses. Each golf course offers accommodation, and staying onsite means maximum convenience, especially at The Dunes, where premium rooms have you sleeping right next to the fairway. Off-course indulgence is close at hand, too.  

    Alba Thermal Springs& Spa
    Soaking at Alba Thermal Springs & Spa. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Peninsula Hot Springs and Alba Thermal Springs are just next door, where thermal waters drawn from geothermal mineral springs deep underground provide the ultimate recovery after a day of perfecting your swing. These award-winning wellness sanctuaries offer everything from bathing pools to private plunges and spa treatments. 

    Jetty Road Brewery
    Jetty Road Brewery.

    After sinking the last ball, and the 19th hole beckons, the Peninsula serves up just as many dining options as it does golf courses. Just minutes away and right on the beach, Jetty Road Brewery  is a laid-back spot perfect for a round of beers and typical pub fare. For something a little elevated, book a table at Epicurean . Here, a glass of local red pairs beautifully with handmade pastas and woodfired pizza, all served in a historical coolstore and packing shed dating back more than a century.