11 Must-Visit Kangaroo Island Beaches

The sparkling sapphire waters off Kangaroo Island beckon, promising countless hours of dreamy beach days.

Going to Kangaroo Island without going to the beach is like going to Italy and not eating pasta. It just isn’t done, and one should never try to resist. And with hundreds of miles of coastline to explore at the South Australian island, there’s no chance you’ll be able to. To make the temptation all the more irresistible, we’ve laid out the best Kangaroo Island beaches for you to explore.

Seals laying on the beach at Seal Bay. — Beach days on Kangaroo Island are a must. (Image: Gab Rivera)

Need to know before you go

Can you swim at Kangaroo Island?

Not only can you swim on Kangaroo Island, but it’s also one of the most popular activities to do here. Alongside surfing, fishing, trekking and wildlife spotting, the beaches here provide an endless number of things to do. As any good beach lover knows, care should of course be taken when entering the water, especially if conditions look like they could be rough. Pay attention to any signs – or locals – warning about conditions or the presence of marine life.

Are there sharks at Kangaroo Island?

Sharks such as the great white or bronze whalers can occasionally be found off the coast of the island.

1. Emu Bay

One of the best-known Kangaroo Island beaches, Emu Bay is a gorgeous, languorously long stretch of white sand along the island’s north coast. Snorkel in the clear turquoise waters and try to spot the flipper of a wild dolphin, 4WD up the four-kilometre-long bay or amble up the jetty to try your hand at a catch. Emu Bay is just a 15-minute-drive from the town of Kingscote, and just a few minutes’ drive to Emu Bay Lavender Farm . Overall? It’s hands down one of the best things to do while on the island.

Aerial shot of people swimming in Emu Bay's turquoise waters. — Emu Bay is known for its turquoise waters. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Elliot Grafton)

2. Vivonne Bay

Rocking up to Vivonne Bay, it’s not hard to see why a recent study by Australian marine scientists found it to be ‘Australia’s best beach’. Head down a dirt path by foot to find a white, sandy bay, hugging around incredibly clean, sparkling blue water. Drop your towel wherever – it’s unlikely to be crowded, despite its fame – or take a walk up the jetty. Surfers are also welcome here.

Van parked on dirt road by Vivonne Bay. — Vivonne Bay is Australia’s best beach. (Image: As We Wander)

Vivonne Bay is on the south coast of the island. The Vivonne Bay General Store (and its famous, oh-so-delicious whiting burgers) is a few minutes up the road, and the Little Sahara Adventure Centre is 10 minutes by car.

People and dog walking into ocean at Vivonne Bay. — Vivonne Bay is the ideal beach spot. (Image: As We Wander)

3. Stokes Bay

Pick through a cave system tunnel to get to this magical hidden cove. On arrival, adventurous beach lovers can explore the pools, and wade through the clear waters. Stokes Bay is on the island’s north coast. The Stokes Bay Campground is nearby, and has a cafe that is open October to May – but if camping is your thing, then be sure to read up on the island’s most beautiful camping sites, as Stokes is only one of many.

Man wades through the cave to get to Stokes Bay. — Wander through the caves to get to the bay. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Elliot Grafton)

4. Snelling Beach

After a beach that will satisfy both surfers and swimmers? Go to Snelling Beach. Facing north-west, this beach has a 100m zone for the most avid surfer, as well as multiple places to take a dip. Barbeque, toilet and picnic facilities can be found here. Snellings is in the north of the island and is just a stone’s throw across the road from the famous KI Fig Tree (formerly Gastronomo’s Enchanted Fig Tree) – one of Kangaroo Island’s best dining experiences.

Aerial view of Snelling Beach and the rocks. — Surfers and swimmers unite at Snelling Beach. (Image: @saltythebus)

5. Hanson Bay

A secluded bay known for its surf waves; you can get to Hanson Bay via the unsealed West River Road. Wake up to the beauty of the beach by booking a holiday cabin at Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary , and tie in your beach time with a guided tour to learn more about koalas, tammar wallabies and other Kangaroo Island inhabitants. Hanson Bay is located on the western end of the island.

6. Brown Beach

Head up to the Dudley Peninsula for a kid-friendly paddle at Brown Beach. Hunt for shells with the little ones, or head out for a snorkel. The Browns Beach Campground is just next door and has barbecues, toilets and showers available to use.

Person kayaking on Brown Beach with One Kangaroo Island in the background. — Brown Beach is great for the whole family. (Image: Kane Overall)

7. Western River Cove Beach

A remote and spectacular beach, Western River Cove Beach can be found on the northern side of the island. Travel here by a dirt road before finding yourself at a meandering river that leads down to the serene swimming spot. A calm little bay, this is also a popular spot for fishing. Camping, picnic and toilet facilities are available.

Spectacular wide shot of Western River Cove Beach. — Western River Cove Beach is accessible by dirt road. (Image: Ben Goode)

8. Penneshaw Beach

Have you hopped off the Kangaroo Island ferry, desperate to throw your towel on the first beach you see? Penneshaw is your best bet as it is right next to where visitors depart and leave. Also known as Hog Bay (a historical quirk that relates back to the fact a whole host of pigs were once released here), Penneshaw makes for a refreshing dip and picnic area if you’re early to catch a ride back to the mainland.

Sunset at Penneshaw Beach. — Penneshaw is also known as Hog Bay. (Image: Greg Snell)

9. Seal Bay

While you definitely can’t swim at Seal Bay , it’s still a must-see beach on the island. This, of course, is because of its star residents: the Australian sea lions who have lived here for thousands of years. Visit Cape Ganthaume/Seal Bay Park to see the pups of the ocean, yawning and stretching on the warm sand, via the accessible boardwalk or take a guided tour . Seeing them dive through the waters got you craving the feel of saltwater on your own skin? Vivonne Bay is just up the road.

Two seals kissing at Seal Bay. — You can’t swim at Seal Bay but you can observe plenty of sea lions frolicking in the waves and on the sand. (Image: Ben Goode)

10. D’Estrees Bay

After the ultimate D’Estree-ssing experience? This south coast surfing beach is also not far from Seal Bay and its residents. Here you can surf and fish, swim at low tide and even read up on the history of the shipwrecks in the area. Those seeking a beachside camping experience on Kangaroo Island can pitch their tents at the grounds nearby .

11. Pennington Bay Beach

One of Kangaroo island’s most famous surf beaches, with stunning breaks courtesy of the strong swell, and surrounded by bushland. Grab your board (or your fishing rod) and get over to the south side of the island as soon as you can to see for yourself. The surf can be a challenge, so even if you’re confident, keep an eye on the conditions.

High shot looking down at Pennington Bay. — Pennington Bay is a famous surf beach. (Image: Isaac Forman)

Head to our Kangaroo Island travel guide for more on where to go and what to see while you’re there.

Traipse Jurassic cliffs and wander secluded beaches on Australia’s most enchanting walks.

Australia’s landscapes are made for hiking. Take the Red Centre, dusted in shifting sands and dotted with miraculous geological formations. Or our rainforests, left behind as the sole souvenir from continents that no longer exist. Down south, mottled night skies hang above crashing seas and unwavering cliffs. It makes sense, then, that hiking holidays are rising in popularity. No wi fi, no traffic. Just you and the path less travelled on the Great Walks of Australia in remote and iconic destinations.

What are the Great Walks of Australia?

If nature is your happy place, you’ve likely heard of the Great Walks of Australia, part of Tourism Australia’s Signature Experiences program since 2013 – a curated collection of 15 all-inclusive, eco-luxury journeys showcasing the country’s most spectacular landscapes with expert guides and incredible meals. GWOA launching in 2013 as

From exploring the peaks of a World Heritage listed island, to journeying through the heart of Australia, and the gentle pull of the majestic Murray – there’s a walking holiday to suit walkers of all experience levels (and interests).

Joining a Great Walks of Australia hike means the pressure is off with all meals, guides and eco-luxury accommodation included.

Where can you hike?

1. Scenic Rim Trail, Queensland

great walks of australia tour group on Scenic Rim Trail, Queensland — Enjoy incredible food along the way.

Around 23 million years ago, volcanoes spewed magma across Queensland’s Scenic Rim . Now, what’s left of the fiery landscape takes the form of the UNESCO-listed Gondwana rainforest.

The Scenic Rim Trail is a four-day guided hike that takes you through the ancient rainforest. You’ll venture out into breathtaking viewpoints across the Main Range National Park. Enjoy a packed lunch, listen out for the duplicitous calls of the lyrebird and enjoy the silence.

You’ll spend your nights in boutique eco-cabins and incredible hospitality.

2. Murray River Walk, South Australia

great walks of australia tour group on — Walk through vibrant wildflower fields.

Murray River Walk pairs easy hiking with blissful evenings cruising the Murray River. Over four days and nights, you’ll follow kangaroo trails through red dirt dusted with vivid patches of wildflowers.

Each day ends on a solar-powered, custom-built houseboat. Watch towering, red sandstone cliffs float by from the top deck spa. Then, it’s three-course meals sourced from local produce and served alongside the region’s best wines.

The entire region you’ll be traversing is within the Riverland Ramsar site. Watch as spoonbills forage for food in the tranquil wetlands, emus parade through the wildflowers, and regent parrots flit above.

3. Maria Island Walk, Tasmania

wombat along the Maria Island Walk tasmania — Spot adorable locals.

Your Maria Island walk begins with a private boat transfer to an untouched, white sand beach. Barefoot in the sand, you’ll quickly realise – aside from your guide and group – you’re completely alone. Spot countless wombats and hear the distant calls of Tasmanian Devils as you spend four days leisurely traversing the island.

Nights are split between private, comfortable wilderness camps and queen-size beds in a historic cottage from the island’s convict history. Meals are built around fresh-caught seafood and served with East Coast Tasmanian wine.

4. Seven Peaks Walk, New South Wales

hiker on Seven Peaks Walks on Lord Howe Island — Explore the incredible Lord Howe Island. (Image: Luke Hanson)

Lord Howe Island feels like another world. With its patchwork blue coral lagoons and magma-honed peaks, it’s easy to forget you’re in New South Wales.

This walk has the highest level of elevation in the Great Walks of Australia’s collection. It’s because of this that you’ll witness nature like never before. UNESCO-listed volcanic peaks and coral reefs that grew out of solidified lava will become your daily norm.

Along the way, step onto beaches that lie undisturbed for weeks at a time. Then, snorkel the southernmost reef in the Pacific Ocean.

5. Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk, Northern Territory

This five-day, fully guided, premium hiking experience inside Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park was developed in partnership with Aṉangu Traditional Owners. Begin your walk dwarfed by the shade of Kata Tjuṯa’s towering dome formations. Following remote desert trails through the red sands, crest dunes and traverse mulga woodlands as you draw closer to the monolithic walls of Uluṟu.

Each night, dine under the lamp light of the Milky Way in the warm desert air and sleep in new flagship, environmentally sensitive private camps and lodge. This is the first time that travellers have ever been allowed to spend the night inside the national park.

6. The Twelve Apostles Signature Walk, Victoria

great walks of australia tour group on The Twelve Apostles Signature Walk, Victoria — See the Twelve Apostles in a new way. (Image: Ken Luke)

The Great Ocean Road’s rugged splendour is best experienced on this signature four-day, 44-kilometre guided walk . You’ll follow the rugged limestone stacks of the shipwreck coastline: wild, crashing waves, curious wildlife, and two national parks.

Finish each day at your luxurious lodge, where you’ll sit with your feet soaking and a glass of wine in hand. You’ll have a single lodge to call home on this walk, meaning you’ll only need to set out with a day pack.

7. Three Capes Signature Walk, Tasmania

On Tasmania’s Three Capes Signature Walk , you’ll feel like you’re walking along the edge of the world. From your boat landing on a remote beach, climb slowly upward for spectacular views and wildlife encounters with pods of dolphins, fur seals and echidnas. Spend days walking Jurassic dolerite cliffs with the wild Southern Ocean as your only constant.

Stay in architecturally designed eco-lodges nestled at the very edge of the world. Think floor-to-ceiling windows, a plunge pool and even an on-site spa to tend to ailments from the hike.

Discover more Great Walks of Australia and start planning your next adventure at greatwalksofaustralia.com.au.

11 must-visit Kangaroo Island beaches