24 Things To Do On Kangaroo Island

From spending the night in luxury digs to touring the island on a foodie adventure and some of the best wildlife experiences you’ll find anywhere, there’s no end of things to see and do on this magical South Australian island.

Thanks to its rugged good looks, inviting beaches, iconic natural attractions and accommodation with mesmerising views, Kangaroo Island offers a wonderful mix of things to do.

Got a few days up your sleeve? Whether you’re hankering for a relaxing family holiday or an intimate getaway, Kangaroo Island has become one of South Australia’s most coveted destinations and is the place to be.

Book a trip to Kangaroo Island and check out our recommendations, from world-class wineries to wildlife spotting in wide, open spaces.

1. Stay at Hamilton & Dune

Kangaroo Island is scattered with a range of luxury accommodation, from over-the-top pods to bell tents with all the trimmings. Hamilton & Dune is one of Kangaroo Island’s destination digs: choose between the architecturally designed Dune House, a chic, three-bedroom property where no detail has been overlooked, or Hamilton House, a property that can house larger groups but is a little less ‘designer’. It’s definitely one of our top places to stay on Kangaroo Island.

Woman showering in outdoor shower overlooking the ocean at Hamilton & Dune Kangaroo Island. — Shower with a view at Hamilton & Dune. (Image: Sarah Byden & Vinnie Preston)

2. Check out Seal Bay Conservation Park

Wander along the soft sand that makes up Seal Bay Conservation Park and you will come across Australia’s third largest sea lion colony. There are no enclosures on Seal Bay, but there is a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk that leads down to viewing platforms that jut out over Seal Bay, which has been home to the Australian sea lion population for thousands of years. Take a guided tour or go at your own pace.

Seals lay on the beach at Kangaroo Island's Seal Bay. — Seal Bay Conservation Park is Australia’s third-largest sea lion colony. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

3. Visit the teeny penguins of Penneshaw

Kangaroo Island has its own population of little penguins, who can be seen going about their nightly routine over at the Penneshaw Penguin Centre . Take a penguin-friendly torch and walk carefully and quietly to see the world’s smallest penguin in its natural environment.

Two penguins holding hands at Penneshaw Penguin Centre. — Penguins hold hands too! (Image: Alana Whennen)

4. Dine at Emu Bay Lavender Farm

Emu Bay Lavender Farm features rows of pretty lavender that unfurl down to a rustic farmgate cafe serving homemade lavender scones and lavender ice cream. It also features in our pick of the most beautiful lavender farms around Australia.

Tea and scones with sprigs of lavender at Emu Bay Lavender Farm. — Indulge in some lavender tea and scones. (Image: Meaghan Coles)

After snapping a few selfies amid the purple-hued field, pop inside to procure aromatic body washes, lavender-filled heat pillows and loose-leafed tea. Visit Emu Bay Lavender Farm between mid-September and mid-May to see the fields painted violet.

Lady walks with basket full of lavender at Emu Bay Lavender Farm on Kangaroo Island — Emu Bay Lavender Farm is one of the most beautiful lavender farms in Australia. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

5. Swim with wild dolphins

Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures demonstrates its commitment to the environment by not using bait or propellers during its tours. This is good news for eco-conscious travellers who want to frolic and swim with pods of wild dolphins off the coast of KI. Expect to swim and snorkel with between 20 to 50 wild dolphins at any one time as part of the three-hour Island Explorer Tour. If it’s tours you’re after, we’ve also revealed our top picks for Kangaroo Island tours. Give it a read.

A dolphin jumping out of the water at Kangaroo Island. — Swim with a dolphin on Kangaroo Island. (Image: Chris Bray)

6. Go quad biking

Prefer your adventure activities to be land-based? Whether you’re into hooning through the wilderness on a quad bike, sandboarding dunes at Little Sahara or quietly kayaking through picturesque countryside, the team at Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action will not only look after you but leave you wondering why it is you didn’t take up that particular sport of choice all those years ago.

Family having fun on quad bike at Little Sahara Adventure Centre on Kangaroo Island. — Quad biking on sand dunes is a must. (Image: Megan Crabb)

7. Enjoy Vivonne Bay

The beach near Vivonne Bay General Store is often voted as one of the best in the country. And there is nothing more enticing than ordering a whiting burger from the Vivonne Bay General Store and taking it down to the beach to enjoy with your toes in the sand. Wolfing down a whiting burger is considered somewhat compulsory on Kangaroo Island and the Vivonne Bay General Store is famous for them.

High shot of Vivonne Bay Jetty and the turquoise water around it. — Relax on the Vivonne Bay Jetty. (Image: Mark Elbourne)

8. Invest in the island’s craft beer and gin industry

Kangaroo Island Spirits is Australia’s first craft distillery and the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a tasting tour of wild gin. If you prefer a craft beer, Kangaroo Island Brewery , located just outside Kingscote, serves eight craft beers as well as a decent menu in a relaxed setting. Sunny Sunday afternoon sorted.

Kangaroo Island Brewery worker walks behind bar with rustic scenery. — Kangaroo Island Brewery is the ideal relaxed vibe. (Image: Josie Withers)

9. It’s a notable wine region

Island hop in style around Kangaroo Island onboard the Kangaroo Island Trail Hopper for a hop-on, hop-off tour of key spots around Kingscote, including The Islander Estate Vineyards , where you can pick up a bottle of its award-winning Investor cabernet France. Kangaroo Island Trails also offers a full-day tasting tour that includes a stop at Bay of Shoals Wines . You can also enjoy self-drive the winery trail of Kangaroo Island’s must-visit wineries including Dudley Wines .

Two women drink wine at Gastronomo Enchanted Fig Tree on Kangaroo Island. — Kangaroo Island Trails includes lunch at Gastronomo. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

10. It’s home to the most quintessentially Australian degustation experience

There’s no place better to take an outside table and enjoy some of the finest KI produce at Sunset Food & Wine as you watch the sunset dip into the scorched earth. Add a few kangaroos to the picture and the odd birdsong and you have the degustation meal of a lifetime.

Table set for Sunset Food & Wine — Enjoy the finest Kangaroo Island produce at Sunset Food & Wine. (Image: Elise Cook)

11. There’s no place better to enjoy a road trip

Love to get behind the wheel for an hour or two of outback car karaoke? Amateur chanteuses will be thrilled with the island’s 1,600 kilometres of scenic road – mostly unsealed – snaking its way past soaring cliffs, sand dunes and the ever-present wildlife. It takes two hours and 20 minutes to drive east to west and 45 minutes north to south and yes, you will need a 4WD with powerful brakes (those kangaroos love to hop right out in front of your car).

Kombi Van is parked at Pennington Bay on Kangaroo Island. — Kangaroo Island road trips are a must. (Image: Jordan McArthur Mattea Carson)

12. A scenic ferry experience is included

Sure, there are quicker ways to get to Kangaroo Island than taking the SeaLink Ferry from Cape Jervis (around one hour and 40 minutes south of Adelaide), but airlines don’t touch the sides of what the ferry journey across to Penneshaw offers. First, there’s the scenic drive through the Fleurieu Peninsula, and then there are the wonderful people you meet during the crossing. The cherry on top? A post-ferry meal at Millie-Mae’s Pantry , located right by the ferry terminal.

Aerial shot of SeaLink Ferry Terminal on Kangaroo Island. — The scenic SeaLink Ferry is a dream. (Image: Isaac Forman, Serio)

13. Go a-fishing

For die-hard fishing fans, a fishing charter is one of the best ways to experience the waters around Kangaroo Island. Catches can include kingfish, tuna, gummy shark, squid, trevally, and much more. Fishing charters such as Emu Bay Fishing and Kangaroo Island Fishing Adventures are on hand to show you all the top fishing spots that only locals know about.

Man and boy fishing at Antechamber Bay on Kangaroo Island. — Fishing on Kangaroo Island is an unforgettable experience. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

14. You can visit Raptor Domain

This popular island conservation centre continues to thrill with its famous demonstrations of birds of prey. Visitors to Raptor Domain can expect one-hour shows featuring everything from wedge-tailed eagles to kookaburras and owls. While the centre rescues many orphaned, injured and sick birds each year, it is also home to snakes and lizards and creepy crawlies and presents a fang-tastic venom/reptile show.

Owl eating a mouse at Raptor Domain on Kangaroo Island. — Watch an owl demonstration at Raptor Domain. (Image: Tourism Australia)

15. Have a thrilling day with the kids

As well as quad biking and sand tobogganing, the Kangaroo Island Shipwreck Trail can be explored by foot or by water if you’re diving. For a laid-back afternoon out, the Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Oil Distillery runs tours around their farm property to learn about the products that are made here.

16. This is the place for food tours

Whether you’re after a quick oyster tour or one that takes up the whole day, Kangaroo Island is still in business. For those who hunger after fresh seafood, The Oyster Farm Shop, located in American River, offers visitors a land-based tour (no trips out to their oyster leases just yet), combined with a shucking demonstration and tastings.

Luxury tour operator Exceptional Kangaroo Island offers excursions such as the one-day small group or private Fine Flavours tour, which takes in everything from oysters to honey, wine, gin, olives and olive oil, and the three-day private Fished, Farmed and Fermented tour, which invites visitors to connect with the island’s local producers as well as its landscapes and wildlife.

Person holding a handful of fresh unshucked oysters at The Oyster Farm Shop on Kangaroo Island. — Don’t resist a stop at The Oyster Farm Shop. (Image: The Oyster Farm Shop)

17. Penneshaw Market Day

If you happen to be on the island on the first Sunday of the month any time from October to April, be sure to check out Penneshaw Market Day – an event that brings the whole town alive with a selection of regional foods, musical entertainment, community activities and artisan arts and crafts. You can also buy local at Kingscote Farmers & Artisans Market and enjoy a foraged breakfast of sorts.

18. Explore the art of the island

The residents here are a creative bunch, and you can spot the best of Kangaroo Island’s art and jewellery at creative hubs like Kangaroo Island Gallery , KI & Co , A.R. Tells a Story Gallery and Fine Art Kangaroo Island .

Couple looking at artwork at Shep's Studio in Kingscote on Kangaroo Island. — Immerse yourself in the art of the island. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

19. Support local Australian producers

Fill up your car on the island and kit out your rented accommodation with items you’ve purchased from the local supermarket. Head down to Kingscote gift shop and load up on souvenirs before popping in at every artisan enterprise and dropping cash like a Rothschild. Think Fryar’s Free-Range Eggs , D’Estrees Bakery sourdough, Kangaroo Island Fresh Garlic , Kangaroo Island Oats and Kangaroo Island Sea Salt .

Clifford's Honey Farm Honey Wheat Ale bottles with beeswax candle. — Support local on Kangaroo Island. (Image: Meaghan Coles)

20. Get honey-ed up with the island’s bees

KI is famous for its Ligurian bees, who genetically speaking, have not cross-bred with any other species. Sample the fruits of their labour and purchase some Kangaroo Island honey by visiting Kangaroo Island Living Honey , Clifford’s Honey Farm and The Kangaroo Island Ligurian Bee Co .

Honey drips off a hive frame at Kangaroo Island Ligurian Bee Co — Taste the famous honey made by the Kangaroo Island Ligurian Bee Co. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

21. Have an Instagram-friendly meal

There aren’t many other places to eat more gram friendly than The Fig Tree (formerly Gastronomo: The Enchanted Fig Tree). A sprawling fig tree that dates back over 120 years, this Snelling Beach wilderness eatery offers beautiful surroundings in the soft green leaves of the day or the fairylight-dappled evening. Needless to say, bookings are essential.

Couple dining at Gastronomo: The Enchanted Fig Tree. — You’ll definitely get the Insta shot at The Fig Tree. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

22. Spot a koala

You can get up close with one of Australia’s cutest residents at the Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary . The sanctuary – which is also home to kangaroos, crimson rosellas, Tammar Wallabies, and echidnas – is one of the best places to witness and learn about the regeneration of Kangaroo Island following the the 2019/20 Black Summer bushfires.

Take a Guided Koala Walk & Bushfire Ecology Tour or a Sunset Noctural Adventure Tour, or book into a beachfront cabin for true immersion in the great outdoors.

Two koalas cuddling in a tree on Kangaroo Island. — There are plenty of opportunities to see a koala. (Image: Jetabout Holidays)

23. Strap on hiking boots for a walk

From Flinders Chase National Park with the Remarkable Rocks and Admiral’s Arch to the lighthouse in Cape Willoughby Conservation Park , Kangaroo Island has plenty of sites to ramble along to. Wait patiently for a tell-tale ripple on the Platypus Waterholes Walk , or climb Prospect Hill for the highest views on the island . Or go underground with a tour at Kelly Hill Caves Conservation Park .

Cape Willoughby lighthouse. — Take a walk to Cape Willoughby. (Image: Gab Rivera)

Or tackle the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail, a 66-kilometre five-day walk, independently or with a licensed operator such as Life’s an Adventure.

24. Beach-hop Kangaroo Island

While beaches like Emu Bay and Vivonne Bay get a big portion of the attention (well-deserved, considering the latter was once voted Australia’s number one beach), there are plenty of other spots on Kangaroo Island to set up your towel as well. Spot dolphins on Snellings Beach, and head through a cave system to get to Stokes Bay.

Couple walking through cave to get to Stokes Bay. — Walk through caves to get to Stokes Bay. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Brown Beach is family friendly with hand barbeque facilities, while the waters of Chapman River offer the chance for a freshwater dip. Fancy a surf? Pennington Bay Beach on the south coast is your best bet to catch some waves while you’re here. Need more? You can check out the entire list of top Kangaroo Island Beaches here.

Man kayaking on Chapman River. — Take a dip in Chapman River’s fresh water. (Image: Julie Fletcher)

Additional updates written by Kate Bettes

Head to our Kangaroo Island travel guide for more on what to do while you’re on the ground.

A world away from the hustle, bustle and chaos of the big smoke – yet with a distinct sense of familiarity – Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region is an incomparable place.

Victoria’s Grampians are a visual feast, a seemingly endless vista of craggy cliffs, rolling valleys and untamed bushland. But they’re also much more than a scenic mountain landscape. Diverse and storied, each region within the range has its own rhythm. The Wimmera Mallee – a pocket in the state’s north-west, stretching from Horsham to near Mildura – is one of the most captivating.

Once known as Victoria’s agricultural heartland, the Wimmera Mallee has evolved in recent years into a dynamic, slightly offbeat hub. It buzzes with a creative hum and welcoming energy, and harbours an eclectic mix of long-time locals and tree-changers. Once you encounter its unmistakable charm, feel its warm country hospitality and taste its nationally celebrated vanilla slice, you may find yourself lingering longer than planned.

Eager to explore? These must-visit spots let you experience the inimitable spirit of this special part of the world.

Wimmera Mallee’s quirky attractions

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

If you’re after something a little more unconventional, the Wimmera Mallee delivers in droves.

The Dimboola Imaginarium – located in a historic bank building in its namesake town – is a gift shop and boutique accommodation in one. Shop for unique and whimsical keepsakes, stay overnight in an elegant themed room, and lose yourself in one of the Imaginarium’s interactive experiences.

Also in Dimboola, just a short drive from the Imaginarium, is a menagerie of utter delight. Tiny Goats and Co. is home to a herd of miniature goats, with the farm offering group visits and special events like goat yoga and cuddle sessions.

Arcade aficionados should visit the Australian Pinball Museum in nearby Nhill. Here, you’ll find the biggest selection of playable pinball machines in the country, featuring modern models and classics dating all the way back to 1931.

Arts and culture in Wimmera Mallee

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed — Step into history at the Stick Shed. (Image: Visit Vic)

As a thoroughly creative community, it’s no wonder the Wimmera Mallee has a host of venues focused on its rich arts and culture scene.

Wander Trickbots Metal Art & Sculpture Garden in Nullawil, a winding trail filled with unique and quirky creations fashioned from metal odds, ends and scrap. A walk through the garden is inspiring enough, but consider buying a piece to take home and treasure.

The town of Nhill also has a significant Karen-Burmese refugee community, who make up 10 per cent of the local population. Discover the artistry of this vibrant culture at Paw Po , where you can purchase traditional hand-woven and textile products. Choose from a selection of beautifully crafted homewares, fashion and dolls.

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed , the only WWII emergency grain store still standing today. This National Heritage-listed structure takes you on a journey through the region’s agricultural past and is a dramatic sight with its towering and eerily striking timber poles.

Nature escapes around Wimmera Mallee

pink Lake Tyrrel, Wimmera Mallee, Victoria Australia — Take in the pink hues of Lake Tyrrell. (Image: Visit Vic)

Much like the majestic beauty of the wider Grampians, the Wimmera Mallee is a mélange of serene and spellbinding nature escapes.

Victoria’s pink lakes are famed nationwide, and two of them are found right here. See the flamingo-pink hues of Loch Iel, particularly vivid after a heavy downpour, or the vast and ancient Lake Tyrrell , which turns pink during wet and warm conditions.

The Snowdrift dunes in Wyperfeld National Park are ideal for adventurers. Set amid the area’s semi-arid landscape, the dunes are expansive mounds of sand deposited around 40,000 years ago. Hike or sandboard them and make sure to visit at sunset, when the sand glows golden.

And while some travellers chase the highest peaks, you can see the most modest in the Wimmera Mallee. Standing a mere 43 metres above the surrounding terrain, Mount Wycheproof is considered the smallest registered mountain in the world. Courtesy of its relatively gentle inclines, it’s a lovely spot for a walk and a picnic.

Culinary adventures in Wimmera Mallee

border inn in the Wimmera Mallee — Meet the locals at Border Inn.

As a region rich in agricultural bounty, it’s little surprise the Wimmera Mallee has such a robust and vibrant food scene. The community is fiercely proud of its local produce, showcasing the flavours and heritage of the area.

The Border Inn in the village of Apsley is a quaint country pub and meeting spot for the local community, featuring a classic country menu and warm hospitality.

The Horsham Golf Club is a popular spot for golf buffs with an adjoining bistro and bar. Try a modern twist on hearty favourites while taking in views of the green. For a taste of the area’s vintages, head to Norton Estate Wines – a boutique wine producer and cellar door open weekends.

A Wimmera Mallee jaunt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famed Sharp’s Bakery in Birchip. Here, you’ll find a velvety vanilla slice that’s been crowned as Australia’s best seven times.

Wimmera Mallee accommodation

Fulham Homestead in wimmera mallee — Escape to Fulham Homestead.

If you’re enjoying an extended trip, you’ll need somewhere to rest. After a day tackling Wyperfeld’s epic dunes, visit Pine Plains Lodge , also in the national park. Built from reclaimed timber planks and logs, and anchored by rugged stone fireplaces, the lodge is a rustic and cosy hideaway.

For a refined yet relaxing escape, head to Fulham Homestead – a gorgeously restored guesthouse on an idyllic working farm, complete with farm animals and scenic vistas. Built in the 1840s, it has all the elegance and charm of its heritage, plus contemporary comforts like a modern kitchen, wi-fi and air-conditioning.

The Hermitage Hotel is Victoria’s oldest inland pub and an equally delightful blend of old and new. The restored rooms are perfectly appointed and adorned with period furnishings and high-quality linens. The pub itself is a favoured food and wine spot among locals and travellers alike.

If camping is more your style, the Lake Lascelles Cabins and Camping (formerly Mallee Bush Retreat) is a sprawling oasis with powered and unpowered sites and snug cabins. The setting is stunning too, the pristine Lake Lascelles sitting right in its centre.

Annual events

Wimmera Mallee Nhill Aviation Museum — Time your visit to Nhill Aviation Museum for the annual air show.

You may not need an excuse to revisit the Wimmera Mallee, but these annual and bi-annual events will almost certainly have you returning again and again.

Each year, the Lake Chalegrark Country Music Marathon takes over the town for a spectacular line-up of musicians from around Australia. The event is easygoing, family-friendly, and set in scenic surrounds on the shores of Lake Charlegrark.

Every two years, the region holds colourful events like the Wimmera Steampunk Festival , a raucous celebration of 19th-century steampunk culture with a different theme each time; the Nhill Air Show , which features jaw-dropping aerial stunts, aircraft displays, music, activities and more; and the Nati Frinj , a festival of art, culture and performance showcasing the many talents of the Natimuk community.

From the quirky to the tasty, start planning at visitwimmeramallee.com.au

24 things to do on Kangaroo Island