Visiting Remarkable Rocks on Kangaroo Island

Written by: Cameron Ward

Published: 02/03/2017

Reading time: 3 mins

The Remarkable Rocks, are a natural phenomenon nestled on the coastal clifftops of Kangaroo Island.

The rocks are large granite boulders that stand 200 feet above the 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, with their size and unique shape is mesmerising in person. The area around the rocks is itself worth the visit, with stunning views of the sapphire ocean and the neighbouring bush land.

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 super continent Gondwanaland. This super continent contained not just Australia, but South American, Africa, and Antarctica. Once the land began spilt apart, spheroidal weathering began. The land endured millions of years of weather and sea. Slowly it 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 ferry is your best bet, hopping on from Cape Jervis and getting 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

Although any time of day is fine, the best time to marvel at this attraction is during sunrise or sunset. 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 really take this into consideration 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.

The rocks are relatively safe to walk on during dry weather, but as soon as the weather becomes wet or windy, it’s advised that you take special care. There is a wooden boardwalk that leads to Remarkable Rocks, though, giving 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.

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.

Cameron Ward
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.