Best Kangaroo Island Luxury Accommodation

Take your pick from 10 of the top luxury stay on Kangaroo Island.

Kangaroo Island (KI) lies just 13 kilometres off the South Australian coast, yet feels like it’s a million miles away. That, along with the incredible luxury accommodation on Kangaroo Island, and a trip here is a dream.

The irresistible combination of world-class wineries, wildlife, and a cluster of great places to eat and drink has made KI a must-visit destination for decades. And while you can do a one-day tour with SeaLink, those who stay on the island are rewarded with more time to take in the spellbinding scenery and tick off your list of things to do.

1. Oceanview Eco Villas

Are you even staying on Kangaroo Island if you don’t have a bathtub with a view? Oceanview Eco Villas does what it says on the tin with picture windows framing the ocean views from almost every room, including the bathroom. Located 50 metres from the ragged red cliffs of Redbanks, which protrude from the beach like bad teeth, the off-grid villas offer a five-star experience where the only passing traffic is from kangaroos.

Oceanview Eco Villas overlooking the sea — It doesn’t get more luxurious than this.

2. Cliff House

The view from the Cliff House , perched like an eyrie overlooking the curve of Snelling’s Beach, is everything. After a day spent enjoying superlative food and wine, you can bed down at this architect-designed house on a remote section of KI’s sun-soaked north coast. The Cliff House is a favourite with travellers due to its cliff-edge jacuzzi and cushioned sunken pit, not to mention those unobstructed views of sea and sky.

Cliff House overlooking Snellings Beach — Cliff House is perched overlooking the curve of Snelling’s Beach.

3. Hamilton House & Dune House

Step into the Hamilton House or Dune House and you will feel like you’ve entered a portal that leads to a Pinterest interiors page. The exclusive lodges overlooking Emu Bay both offer melodramatic ocean views and stylish entertaining areas. Both properties also appeal to intrepid adventurers as well as those seeking solitude. Make the most of being on island time by arranging for an in-house chef.

Interiors of Hamilton House — Enter the Pinterest-worthy interiors.

4. Stowaway Pods

For an island that measures just 145 kilometres long and between 900 metres and 54 kilometres wide, Kangaroo Island packs in a lot. You will be right in position to enjoy all KI has to offer with a stay in one of two Stowaway pods, located on a working farm five minutes away from Stokes Bay. A double-sided wood fire, freestanding bath and sauna are also worthy diversions.

Stowaway pods at Kangaroo Island — Take in the beauty of KI from a Stowaway pod.

5. Sea Dragon Lodge & Villas

Book a stay at Sea Dragon Lodge & Villas if it’s the local wildlife you’re interested in. While the eco villas are not over-the-top extravagant, the luxury on offer is down to those expansive ocean views and proximity to Pink Bay Beach. 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.

View of Sea Dragon from above — The majestic views of Sea Dragon from above.

6. One Kangaroo Island

One Kangaroo Island has a freestanding outdoor tub that is made for wallowing in while looking for resident wildlife. Top up the bath with hot water until twilight falls and then sink into the sofa around the gas fireplace while your private chef prepares your dinner. This luxurious property on the north-east coast of Kangaroo Island is just metres away from Brown’s Beach.

One Kangaroo Island, just meters from Browns Beach. — One Kangaroo Island is just metres from Browns Beach.

7. The Sky House

Follow Cape du Couedic Road, the ribbon of asphalt that runs toward Admiral’s Arch, to get the obligatory Instagram snaps and then do a hit-and-run of the island’s key attractions so you can isolate in style at The Sky House . The rammed-earth architecture makes this property feel like it fell from the sky, with more of a Moroccan vibe than a KI rhythm. It’s low-fi luxury and one of the best Airbnbs on Kangaroo Island.

The Sky House facade at night — The villa is located on the highest point of the property.

8. Ecopia Retreat

Meeting the ‘locals’ when you’re staying at Ecopia Retreat translates to communing with the colony of sea lions at nearby Seal Bay Conservation Park. The experience is so intrinsic to a stay here that a guided tour to see the endangered animals is included when you book a stay of three nights or more. The two contemporary eco villas include floor-to-ceiling windows and a wood fireplace.

Kangaroos seen during a stay at Ecopia Retreat — Wildlife is intrinsic to a stay at Ecopia Retreat.

9. Copperstone KI

Copperstone KI offers front-row seats to the action in Emu Bay, one of the most coveted spots on the north coast of Kangaroo Island. The four-bedroom architecturally designed beach house blends seamlessly into the landscape and is designed with absolute privacy in mind, which comes in handy when you’re drinking in the breathtaking panorama from the bath.

The unassuming exteriors Copperstone KI — Unassuming from the outside, delightful on the inside.

10. Wandering Souls

If you’re looking for the best places to camp on Kangaroo Island, why not do so in comfort with Wandering Souls , who invite you to choose your tent, depending on your tribe and vibe. The company can pitch your luxury bell tent according to your whim and where you’d rather be and style it to suit. Stay on brand and order the Matilda, an Australian luxe tent fitted out with stylish throws and 1000-thread count sheets.

Kangaroos seen during a comforting Wandering Souls — Stay in comfort with Wandering Souls.

If you are looking to mix up your stay on Kangaroo Island, spend a night at one of our picks of beautiful camping spots or our round-up of best places to stay.

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

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.

The best luxury accommodation on Kangaroo Island