The Remarkable Rocks are a natural phenomenon on the coastal clifftops of Kangaroo Island.
There’s a reason the Remarkable Rocks were given their unique name! This incredible, natural rock formation is truly iconic to Kangaroo Island. It almost looks like an art installation, with swirls and curves around the rocks that seem almost impossible.
The rocks are large granite boulders, which stand 200 feet above a crashing seashore. They have become one of the most popular attractions on the island, all due to their unusual and gigantic shapes. Photos do not do this attraction justice, as its size and unique shape are just as mesmerising in person. The area around the rocks is, in itself, worth the visit, with stunning views of the sapphire ocean and the neighbouring bushland.
How the Rocks Formed
The formation of these rocks began over 500 million years ago when the island (and Australia) were a part of the supercontinent Gondwanaland. This supercontinent contained not just Australia, but South America, Africa, and Antarctica.
Once the land began to split apart, ‘spheroidal weathering’ began. The land endured millions of years of weather and sea.
Gradually, this harsh weathering cut away at the granite until large boulders formed interesting shapes and sizes.
How to get to Remarkable Rocks
Before even thinking about how to get to the Remarkable Rocks, you’ve got to get to Kangaroo Island first. The easiest way is to hop on a ferry. Climb aboard at Cape Jervis and get dropped off at the island’s Penneshaw.
After arriving here, you can either join a tour or hire a car to head east of the island. It’s a short drive, only travelling 100 kilometres or so until you reach the stunning rocks.
When to see them
Sunrise or sunset is the best time to see the Remarkable Rocks.
Although no matter what time you go, the view will be impressive. This is all due to the surface of the rocks, splattered with the rust orange colour. This colour boosts exceptionally when the light hits it, with the sunrise and sunset’s pink glow enhancing it even more.
Most don’t consider this when visiting here, so this time is also typically free of large crowds. As well, the nearby ocean horizon sunrise/sunset is a marvel in itself, with the stunning colour reflecting on the wild ocean.
Is it safe to walk on the rocks?
The rocks are relatively safe to walk on during dry weather, but as soon as the weather becomes wet or windy, the rocks can get slippery.
There is a wooden boardwalk that leads to Remarkable Rocks, which will give you a safe way to experience the rocks up close.
From the western side of the platform, you’ll get stunning views across the surrounding bays and the Cape Du Couedic Lighthouse. You might also be able to catch a glimpse of the Casuarina Islets from Remarkable Rocks when the conditions are right.
Worth the visit
No visit to Kangaroo Island is complete without an excursion to Remarkable Rocks. Not only will you get to see one of the island’s most mesmerising natural wonders, but you can learn more about the fascinating geology that characterises the area and tells the story of Australia’s lengthy, rich past. Don’t forget to take your camera, as the photo opportunities are endless.