Why You Should Visit Kangaroo Island in Winter

Kangaroo Island is a haven of wildlife all year round, but in the winter months, you get to see the incredible array of plants and animals come to life.

The great thing about the island is it maintains a consistent temperature – it’s never too hot or too cold. Winter runs from June to September, and the island is mild and wet during this time. August tends to be the coolest month of the year, while July usually sees the most rain.

The Annual Weather of Kangaroo Island

Averaging between 11 to 19 degrees, Kangaroo Island maintains this perfect temperature throughout the year regardless of the season. Summer is of course in the higher degrees, and usually is the busiest tourist and best time for the beaches. Spring brings the rebirth of wildflowers and birds, with it being a hub for wildlife. Autumn in the time for transition, with warm days and calm seas aplenty. Winter runs from June to September, and the island is mild and wet during this time. August tends to be the coolest month of the year, while July usually sees the most rain.

The Pros of Winter

• The Glorious Natural Wildlife

  

  The wet weather in winter means the island bursts into life with vibrant greenery, cascading rivers, and a colourful array of wildlife to discover and explore. It’s during this time of year that the resident mammals come out to play, including the joeys when they start emerging from their mother’s pouches.

  As you can imagine, the island is heaven for wildlife lovers during this time of year. The fur seal colonies and sea lions are a firm favourite amongst visitors in the winter months, too, as they bask on the rocks in search of the sunshine. And, if that wasn’t enough, the rivers are fit to burst, providing a beautiful backdrop to the excellent selection of animal encounters and views.

• Whale Watching

  Winter also marks the perfect time to do some whale watching. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the Southern Right Whales as they breach just off the shoreline.

• Quieter Experience

  Aside from the animal-spotting opportunities and the chance to experience this special part of Australia in a cooler climate, the winter months mean fewer crowds on Kangaroo Island. This means you’ll have free reign to explore everything it has to offer without the hordes of tourists that can gather there during the warmer months.

• There are just many Activities

  The activities you can get stuck into on Kangaroo Island in winter are similar to those you can do in summer. There are plenty of walking routes you can explore, national parks to discover, and a whole lot to learn about the resident animals, their behaviour, and their lush habitat.

What You Can Do at Kangaroo Island

• 1. Remarkable Rocks

  

  Kangaroo Island is renowned for its natural phenomenon’s, with the Remarkable Rocks being one of the most visited. The popular tourist site is essentially a series of massive granite boulders. Ranging in unusual sizes and shapes, with sharp peaks and smooth surfaces. The rocks are scattered along the island’s coast, sitting right along the crashing seashore, looking out over the picturesque surrounds. These rocks weren’t always these random forms but were slowly moulded over by erosion from the nearby sea spray and wind, taking around 500 million years to take shape. Photos won’t do these rocks justice, with the detail and magnitude of the boulders well worth the real-life visit. A popular activity is to visit these remarkable rocks at sunrise or sunset, as the soft orange glow bounces off the rocks to enhance their natural colour.

• 2. Flinders Chase National Park

  Stretching out to 32,500 hectares of the island, Flinders Chase National Park is the central hub for wildlife. With spectacular attractions hidden within, including the iconic Cape du Couedic, the stunning Rocky River, the glorious Gosse Lands, and finally the Cape Borda Light station. Throughout these locations is a hub of wildlife, including native plants that are unique to the area. As well as popular animals such as the koala and kangaroo. the tip of the island. Lace up your walking shoes and trek across the land to see this incredible bushland region.

• 3. Penneshaw

  There is no other way to visit the spectacular Kangaroo Island than by taking the ferry. It is the way to and from the island, with the ferry port nestled right along the town Penneshaw’s shore. Most visitors will hop off the ferry and set off for the natural attractions of the island, but we suggest sticking around a bit longer. Exploring the charming town of Penneshaw and to see all its glorious features. With cafes, restaurants, and local shops, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch here, while buying some of the best goodies and treats up for grabs. After exploring the town streets, take off along one of the walking tracks surrounding the area. Letting you see spectacular wildlife and views only the breath away from the town centre.

• 4. Vivonne Bay

  After immersing yourself in the natural scenery of the island, refuel at one of the most picturesque spots you can find. Vivonne Bay is bursting with charming boats, exceptional restaurants, and a stunning ocean view. Sit down at one of the many ocean front restaurants and enjoy a seafood platter with all the region’s local catches. Head to the dock afterwards and enjoy the sea breeze as you enjoy the sunset setting along the horizon.

If you’re unsure about when to visit Kangaroo Island, make it winter. Not only will you get to see the new animal generations as they make their first steps into the big wide world, but you can experience the incredible scenery without the crowds that congregate in the summer months.