How to spend a day on Kangaroo Island

Just off the mainland of South Australia sits a beautiful natural island called Kangaroo Island.

Kangaroo Island is gorgeous that is worth a visit to see the wildlife, natural formations, and other beautiful features on the island.

It’s practicable when you visit Kangaroo Island if you drive yourself. The island is large and has no public transport, so having a car makes it handy to get around everywhere!

There is so much to see and do on Kangaroo Island, so let’s get started.

8 AM: Breakfast at Cactus Kangaroo Island

You’ll want to start the day with some breakfast or a coffee to wake you up for the day!

If you’re not already on Kangaroo Island, there is a ferry that leaves Cape Jervis to reach Penneshaw at Kangaroo Island at 6 AM and 7 AM. The ferry is only about a 45 minute ride.

9:30 AM: Seal Bay

Seal Bay has the third largest sea lion colony in Australia! Get up close to these friendly creatures and watch them sunbaking on the beach or even out splashing in the water. There is a fee to be able to see them, but it helps protect the cute sea lions.

11 AM: Vivonne Bay

Vivonne Bay is considered to be one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches. The long white sandy beach is perfect for picnics, surfing or swimming. The water is also crystal clear and is divine to swim in. You aren’t going to want to leave once you step foot on the sand and see the views.

12 PM: Lunch at Vivonne Bay General Store

The cafe has all your simple foods from burgers to hot dogs and seafood. There is also a selection of alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages to pick from while you enjoy your meal.

If you want to enjoy more time at Vivonne Bay, you can grab some takeaway and head back down to the gorgeous beach!

1:45 PM: Admirals Arch

Walk along the boardwalk to reach the viewing platform and see the unusual landmark that was created over thousands of years of erosion.

Take a peak through the arch and look out into the ocean. Sometimes there can be New Zealand fur seals here too, so keep an eye out while you’re in the area!

2:30 PM: Remarkable Rocks

Remarkable Rocks is a fascinating sculptured rock that was created over 500 million years worth of rain, wind, and waves.

The rocks are right by the coastline, creating some great Instagramable content for your feed!

3:30 PM: Platypus Waterholes Walk

This walk can take around two hours to complete but is so worth it if you are lucky enough to spot a platypus! This walk is suitable for all people and is wheelchair accessible.

Along the trail, there are plenty of viewing platforms around the waterholes to search for a platypus movement. If you don’t get the chance to spot a platypus, there are plenty of other wildlife you can see!

Keep an eye out for different birds, wallabies, kangaroos, echidnas, and goannas to name a few.

7:15 PM: Dinner at Amadio’s Vino e Cucina

Fancy an Italian meal on the main street in Kingscote? Then Amadio’s Vino e Cucina is your place to go! With traditional and authentic meals and wines, you’ll feel satisfied when you finish your food. You already know the food here is great from the amazing selection of pizza, pasta, seafood, and of course, dessert.

If you need to head back to the mainland, the last ferry leaves at 7:30 PM. You can enjoy a delicious dinner back in Adelaide.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.