Little Sahara on Kangaroo Island

Carve up the slopes at Little Sahara on Kangaroo Island for an adrenaline rush unlike anything you’ve experienced before!

Just a ten-minute drive from Vivonne Bay, hidden back from the coastline, you’ll find Little Sahara. Covering approximately 2 square kilometres of land on the southern coast of Kangaroo Island, the cluster of dunes vary in size, with the largest being 70 metres above sea level.

These natural dunes are referred to as coastal blow out dunes, meaning they have formed as a result of winds battering the area and blowing sand away. It is believed they are still quite young, with estimates of their formation occurring only 7000 years ago.

Years of vegetation growth stabilised the dunes, providing the strength for them to reach such heights. However, bush fires or storms destroyed some of this vegetation and has left the sand loose and likely to move with the wind. When visiting the dunes, you can see this movement in the ‘waves’ across the dunes face. Until the dunes become fully vegetated again the sand will continue to be loose, making them perfect for sliding down!

The dunes are located on private property; however, the owner has graciously allowed tourists to enjoy the dunes. In the late 1970s, the Geological Society of Australia heritage listed Little Sahara as a geological monument, along with nineteen other sites on Kangaroo Island.

Sand Boarding

Sandboarding could be described as snowboarding for people who hate the cold. In fact, the two sports are so similar that many Australian Winter Olympians train on them!

Head to the dunes for an all-natural adrenaline high. Wax up your board for extra slip, strap your feet in and you’re ready to go.  Soar down the dunes standing, sitting or lying on your board, and attempt new tricks as you gain confidence.

For the more timid, why not start with a toboggan. These slightly wider, simple sleds are a great way to rush down the dunes with a little more support. They’re perfect for beginners and families!

No matter which board you choose, experienced boarders will guide you through the process and ensure that you have a fun and safe time. Plus, their tips will help you get your balance quicker, meaning more time spent having fun and less time falling over!

Sandboarding at Little Sahara is a unique and exhilarating way to experience Kangaroo Island. Local sandboard and adventure companies have hour or day long hire options, so you can spend as little or as long sliding as you’d like.

Shake up your Kangaroo Island trip with a visit to Little Sahara. From stunning beaches and lush national parks one day, to adrenaline rushes the next, Kangaroo Island has it all. You’ll absolutely love your time on the dunes, the only complaint we’ve ever heard is about the walk back up!

Related article: Sand Boarding at Little Sahara

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.