Hotels in Kingscote, Kangaroo Island

Nestled off the coast of South Australia, Kangaroo Island is a captivating natural island paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, rugged coastline, abundant wildlife and gourmet food. From kangaroos and koalas to dramatic rock formations and pristine white sandy beaches, Kangaroo Island offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Kangaroo Island is a unique sanctuary for native Australian wildlife, with visitors able to encounter over 50 species of mammals, 25 species of reptiles, and 1,600 species of plants on the island. These include kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, echidnas, platypus, seals, sea lions and over 270 species of birds throughout the island, including the rare and endangered Glossy Black Cockatoo.

Flinders Chase National Park is a must-visit location for nature lovers, with its historic lighthouses and dramatic rock formations including Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Observe long-nosed fur seals basking in the sun at Admirals Arch, where viewing platforms allow you to safely get up close to these seals and watch them play and frolic in the shallow waters below. Seal Bay Conservation Park is another popular destination, offering visitors the chance to see Australian sea lions up close. The Cape Willoughby Conservation Park is also home to a large colony of Australian sea lions, while the Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to see koalas in the wild. The Cape du Couedic Lighthouse is a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 100 species of birds recorded in the area. You can also see many of these native species up close at the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park just outside of Parndana.

The island is also a renowned culinary destination, with a thriving food and wine scene that showcases the island's fresh local produce. Visitors can indulge in wine tasting at one of the island's many cellar doors, or sample local produce at one of the many farm-gate stalls. The island is also home to a unique breed of bees known as the Ligurian Bee. These bees were introduced to the island by the early settlers in 1885, and now Kangaroo Island honey is highly prized for its unique flavour and purity. Sample many varieties of honey at Clifford’s Honey Farm or the Kangaroo Island Honey Shop, and enjoy many other locally-produced gourmet foods at the Kangaroo Island Farmers Market, held once a month on the third Sunday of the month at Kingscote Wharf. On the first Sunday of the month, there is also a produce and handicraft market held at Penneshaw from October through to April.

Kangaroo Island is a stunningly beautiful location that offers a diverse range of activities for all visitors. From nature watching to hiking and biking, there's something for everyone to enjoy on this unique island just off the coast of South Australia.