How long is the drive around Kangaroo Island?
Written by: Cameron Ward
Published: 08/02/2023
Reading time: 4 mins
Kangaroo Island is Australia’s third largest, and arguably one of the best islands in the world.
Driving around Kangaroo Island is a great way to see more of the island’s towns and attractions.
You can drive around Kangaroo Island within three to four hours without stopping. But trust us – you will want to stop and check out some of the highlights along the way. We recommend you spend at least one day, and up to three days if possible.
How can I get to Kangaroo Island?
You can get to Kangaroo Island via a ferry both with and without a car.
The ferry takes about 45 minutes from Cape Jervis with many departure times throughout the day.
Guided tours are an option if you don’t have a car to travel around and want to see the main highlights. There is a one-day and a two-day tour you can book and see the main attractions.
What can’t I bring to Kangaroo Island?
Kangaroo Island is free from pests and diseases that are on Australia’s mainland. So, keeping certain products and animals out is very important.
Honey products, dirty potatoes, rabbits, foxes, bees, bee-handling equipment, and weeds aren’t allowed. These products and animals may carry diseases or cause an environmental disaster on the island.
Best destinations to check out on Kangaroo Island
Flinders Chase National Park
Flinders Chase National Park is a must-visit when on Kangaroo Island. You can spend many hours exploring this truly picturesque national park. With a range of wildlife such as echidnas, platypuses, koalas, and wallabies regularly spotted at the park, visiting Flinders Chase is a great opportunity to see iconic Aussie animals in the wild. Since the 2020 bushfires, this area has seen promising recovery, so you are guaranteed to experience the park in all its glory again.
Bonus tip: For one of Australia’s top Instagrammable roads, make sure you drive along the wavy Cape du Couedic Road – and snap a photo of course!
Remarkable Rocks
Over 500 million years ago lava solidified, and then it kept eroding for another 200 million years – eventually forming the truly remarkable Remarkable Rocks. You can get up and close to the cluster of precariously balanced granite boulders by following a lovely boardwalk. The rocks’ surreal shapes and golden orange colours provide extraordinary photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset. Don’t miss that golden hour glow!
Admirals Arch
Admirals Arch was also created by thousands of years of erosion, resulting in some magnificent cliff formations. You can go to a viewing platform to overlook the arch or follow a boardwalk to reach the arch itself and marvel at its natural beauty. What’s more, sometimes you may even spot some fur seals lounging around on the rocks.
Seal Bay
At Seal Bay, you might expect to see some seals – however, what you’ll find instead is Australia’s third-largest breeding colony for Australian Sea Lions. Over 500 sea lions call Seal Bay their home, making it a great spot to get up close and personal with Australian wildlife.
You have the option to take a walk along the boardwalk and spot the sea lions along the beach, or to venture down to the sandy strip yourself and walk amongst these beautiful creatures as they laze around or have fun in the water.
Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park
This wildlife park has over 600 animals to see, which guarantees a fun day ahead. You can buy an upgrade and interact with the animals, including feeding the kangaroos and wallabies or cuddling a koala. Through other experiences, you can get close to meerkats, dingoes, marmosets, and many more iconic Australian animals.
As you make your way around Kangaroo Island, make sure you also check out the main town, Kingscote. There are beautiful coastal views and many local shops, restaurants, and cafes to visit. If you plan to stay on Kangaroo Island for the night, it’s the perfect spot to set up camp.
