If it’s seaside charm you’re after, Kingscote on Kangaroo Island delivers it at a fitting pace. Here, amid sandstone and bright beachie tones, you can stroll off the fish and chips or hearty pub fare on the wide timber pier.
You’ll spot pelicans poking among the pylons in the teaming waters at Kingscote Beach as dolphins breach in the horizon. Board one many charters at Kingscote Wharf for close-up view.
KINGSCOTE FARM-GATE TOURING
Coastal Kingscote is undoubtedly the economic epicentre of beautiful Kangaroo Island. You’ll find a vibrant agricultural community producing a steady supply of boutique foodie delights in town.
Within 20 minutes on quality sealed roads is the Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery and Clifford’s Honey Farm. Dine to sultry sounds among blooms at Emu Ridge Lavender, closer still. Or team home-grown fruity ice-cream with home-made cheesecake at the Frogs and Roses cafe.
KINGSCOTE’S BEACH BONANZA
Surprises abound Kangaroo Island’s northern coastline, with shale fossils peppering Emu Bay, boutique picnicking by the Bay of Shoals and tranquil waters at Nepean Bay. Limestone paints the fertile waters crystal jade; you’ll find ample nooks to drop in a line.
If you’re into beach driving, skim the flat white sand at Emu Bay, where penguin numbers are slowly growing. And if you’re a snorkelling buff willing to scramble rocks, you’ll find plenty at Stokes Bay.
LAKE VIEWS DUE SOUTH
From the Playford Highway, stretch the legs on raised boardwalks for pink lake views, before hitting South Coast Road for Murray Lagoon within Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park.
It’s great birdwatching here; if you’re lucky, you’ll spot soaring eagles eyeballing its lapping shores.
You’re close to a fork here, with dirt road access leading to remote surf beaches east and the Seal Bay Conservation Park south-west.
SEAL BAY CONSERVATION PARK
Thankfully, one of Kangaroo Island’s most endearing attractions housing the Australian Seal Colony remains open.
And if you time your visit right, you’ll see Australian sea lion mothers tending to their calves from the self-guided boardwalk or up close on the shores of Seal Bay on a guided tour.
It’s special enough for a private tour or a stunning amble at sunset.
SOUTH COAST BEACHIE FUN
Via the South Coast Road are glorious beaches, like Vivonne Bay and its eye tickling panoramas within splashing distance to the Harriet River mouth.
A little west you’ll find the dunes at Little Sahara unscathed, which snaps a treat on a moody day. Be sure to stop in at Kangaroo Island Outdoor Centre to surf the sands or to hire a quad bike for thrilling family fun. Specialising in all things adrenaline, Kangaroo Island Outdoor Centre also offers Kayak tours.
And for more action, stop in at the Raptor Domain – Kangaroo Island Birds of Prey show.
Qantas has just upped its services. Or, if you’re travelling with a caravan or motorhome, you can access the island via a 45-minute ferry ride from Cape Jervis aboard SeaLink, docking at Penneshaw in the east.
