Set off on a classic road trip from Adelaide to Cape Jervis and ferry across to Kangaroo Island, car included, with sweeping ocean views along the way. Discover the island through wildlife encounters, food and wine experiences, and adventures from dolphin swims to quad biking at Vivonne Bay. Explore the wild landscapes of Flinders Chase National Park, visit sea lion colonies and birds of prey sanctuaries, and experience why Kangaroo Island is famed as a true island sanctuary.
Arrive in Adelaide, a charming city known for its relaxed pace, elegant architecture, and thriving food and wine scene. Whether you're exploring the Adelaide Central Market, sipping coffee in hidden cafés, or catching a sunset by the beach, Adelaide offers the perfect mix of culture, flavour, and relaxation.
Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.
Please note, a one-way fee may apply
Depart Adelaide heading south on the Southern Expressway, cruising past the coastal suburbs. Consider a detour into McLaren Vale for a wine tasting and platter at one of the 80+ cellar doors. Continue past Sellicks Beach, spotting the striking Nan Hai Pu Tuo Temple, and stop in Myponga for a break at the local brewery or bakery. Drive through Normanville and the forested roads of Second Valley to Cape Jervis, and if time allows, visit the lighthouse and lookout near the marina before boarding your ferry.
SeaLink Kangaroo Island’s ferry service operates between Cape Jervis (two hours south of Adelaide) and Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island. The journey takes just 45 minutes for the 16km crossing.
Perched on the rugged eastern tip of Kangaroo Island, the Cape Willoughby Lighthouse stands as South Australia's oldest lighthouse, first illuminated in 1852. This 27-meter-high granite and limestone tower was built to guide ships safely through the treacherous Backstairs Passage between Kangaroo Island and the mainland. Today, the lighthouse is a centerpiece of the Cape Willoughby Conservation Park, offering visitors panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding ocean. The park features walking trails through native vegetation, opportunities to spot local wildlife, and a chance to delve into the region's maritime history. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking breathtaking vistas, Cape Willoughby Lighthouse provides a memorable experience on Kangaroo Island.
Your accommodation: Seafront Kangaroo Island Holiday Park
The Seafront is perfectly situated in Penneshaw - Gateway to Kangaroo Island, and overlooks the magnificent Backstairs Passage. Kangaroo Island is totally unspoilt, white beaches, rocky outcrops and stunning coastline is home to an abundance of wildlife. KI is seven times the size of Singapore, literally crawling with wildlife.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 107 kms / 67 miles : 1.6 hours
Travelling from Penneshaw to Hanson Bay is a scenic cross-island journey showcasing Kangaroo Island’s diversity, from coastal wildlife to rugged interiors. Along the way, you can stop at Seal Bay Conservation Park and join a guided tour to see Australian sea lions resting on pristine beaches, detour inland to the towering sand dunes of Little Sahara Adventure Centre for sandboarding or quad biking, and enjoy adventure experiences with Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action near Vivonne Bay. As you head further west, Kelly Hill Caves Conservation Park offers guided underground tours through impressive limestone formations before the landscape becomes wilder and more remote. Closer to Hanson Bay, the sealed road gives way to sections of well-maintained dirt road, adding to the sense of adventure as you arrive at this peaceful, wildlife-rich corner of the island.
This 45 minute walking tour with National Parks and Wildlife Service will take you on a journey around Seal Bay, departing the Visitor Centre on a boardwalk path through the dunes. At the beach, remark at the sea lions as your knowledgeable guide interprets their behaviour and habits from a safe distance. On this memorable wildlife experience, occasionally spot members of the colony snoozing in the sand dunes or in the middle of the path. Seal Bay has the third largest breeding colony of Australian Sea Lions.
Ready for the ultimate off-the-beaten-path experience? This is your chance to discover one of Australia’s Top 100 surf beaches, hidden along the wild and rugged south coast of Kangaroo Island, an area few ever get to see. Set off on a thrilling quad bike adventure across diverse terrain, from winding bushland tracks and open grasslands to challenging rocky trails. Your journey leads to a remote, untouched beach where the only footprints might be your own. Take in breathtaking views of the powerful Southern Ocean and feel the raw beauty of this isolated coastline. This is more than just a ride, it’s an unforgettable adventure to one of Kangaroo Island’s best-kept secrets. Perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Your accommodation: Hanson Bay Cabins
The Hanson Bay Cabins are located at the end of Hanson Bay Road, 3.5 km from the highway near Southern Ocean Lodge and Flinders Chase National Park. Each cabin features a slow-combustion wood fire and, a full kitchen including a dishwasher and microwave. Hanson Bay cabins feature stunning ocean views of the rugged Southern Ocean coastline.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 123 kms / 77 miles : 1.4 hours
Explore the natural wonders of Flinders Chase National Park on scenic walks. Take the Remarkable Rocks Walk to marvel at the park’s iconic granite formations, stroll the Admirals Arch Boardwalk to see the resident fur seals and dramatic coastal cliffs, and enjoy shorter bush trails like the Platypus Waterholes Walk or Weirs Cove Walk for wildlife spotting. These suggested activities are perfect for nature lovers and families, combining breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife encounters, and unforgettable photo opportunities in one of Kangaroo Island’s most iconic national parks.
Kelly Hill Caves have a long history shaped by both nature and people. Formed over thousands of years as rainwater slowly dissolved the island’s limestone, the caves were known to the local Aboriginal people long before European settlement. They were officially recorded in the late 1800s and later developed for guided tours in the early 20th century. Today, the caves are protected within Kelly Hill Caves Conservation Park, preserving their geological features and cultural significance while allowing visitors to experience this remarkable underground landscape on guided tours. On a guided tour, you’ll descend into the cool limestone caves to explore impressive chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites and delicate formations, while expert guides share stories about the cave’s geology, history and discovery.
Your accommodation: Hanson Bay Cabins
The Hanson Bay Cabins are located at the end of Hanson Bay Road, 3.5 km from the highway near Southern Ocean Lodge and Flinders Chase National Park. Each cabin features a slow-combustion wood fire and, a full kitchen including a dishwasher and microwave. Hanson Bay cabins feature stunning ocean views of the rugged Southern Ocean coastline.
This 90-minute tour takes place in exclusive "supervised only" areas within the Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, the best place on Kangaroo Island to see a sustainable population of koalas in the wild. An expert guide will lead a tailored exploration of the region’s unique flora and fauna, providing insights into the diverse species that call the island home and how they have adapted to the impact of bushfires. Bushfires have been a defining force in shaping the ecology of Kangaroo Island, with significant fires recorded in 2020, 2007, 1968, 1958, 1954, 1953, and as far back as 1931, when official records began.
Your accommodation: Hanson Bay Cabins
The Hanson Bay Cabins are located at the end of Hanson Bay Road, 3.5 km from the highway near Southern Ocean Lodge and Flinders Chase National Park. Each cabin features a slow-combustion wood fire and, a full kitchen including a dishwasher and microwave. Hanson Bay cabins feature stunning ocean views of the rugged Southern Ocean coastline.
Leaving the peaceful, wildlife-rich surroundings of Hanson Bay, you’ll follow the South Coast Road east before joining the Playford Highway toward the island’s main town. Along the route, rolling farmland, native bush, and glimpses of the coastline unfold, and you might spot kangaroos or koalas in the wild. As you get closer to Kingscote, make sure to stop at Island Beehive to discover the island’s honey-making process and sample a range of unique local honey, and at the Kangaroo Island Brewery to enjoy a refreshing drink and locally crafted beers. Arriving in Kingscote, you’ll find a charming coastal town with cafes, galleries, and a scenic foreshore, the perfect base for exploring the rest of Kangaroo Island.
Kingscote, the largest town on Kangaroo Island, is set on the shores of Nepean Bay and offers a lively mix of cafés, restaurants, shops, heritage sites, and local galleries. Explore historic landmarks, browse arts and crafts, and enjoy local brews and spirits at the island’s brewery and distillery. Nearby, discover coastal wildlife and birdlife at Busby Islet Conservation Park, or unwind on the white sands and clear waters of Emu Bay.
Step into the boots of a beekeeper in this hands-on, unforgettable experience at Island Beehive. Guided by a seasoned expert, you’ll suit up in a protective, ventilated bee suit and venture out to the hives where the magic happens. Feel the buzz as you open an active hive, learn how to use a smoker, and discover the fascinating world of bee behaviour. Hold a frame full of bees for the ultimate photo opportunity and gain a deeper understanding of honey extraction and the creation of other bee products. Finish your experience with a guided tour of the extraction facility and a tasting of our rare and delicious Kangaroo Island Ligurian honey. This is a truly immersive experience perfect for nature lovers, curious minds, and anyone wanting a deeper connection to the natural world.
Your accommodation: Ozone Hotel Kangaroo Island
Aurora Ozone Kingscote Hotel offers a unique waterfront location along one of South Australia’s most pristine coastlines. Enjoy stunning views over Nepean Bay from Parsons Restaurant, unwind at the Winch Bar and Guest Lounge, or relax by the swimming pool. Experience comfortable accommodation in the heart of Kangaroo Island.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 93 kms / 58 miles : 1.1 hours
Perfect for those short on time but eager to sample Kangaroo Island’s best, this 5-hour tour blends local flavors, scenic drives, and insider stories from a passionate guide. From boutique vineyards and cider makers to lavender farms and honey producers, each stop offers a taste of the island’s unique heritage and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, gin lover, or simply curious about Kangaroo Island’s gourmet culture, this tour is a delicious way to connect with the region.
Your accommodation: Ozone Hotel Kangaroo Island
Aurora Ozone Kingscote Hotel offers a unique waterfront location along one of South Australia’s most pristine coastlines. Enjoy stunning views over Nepean Bay from Parsons Restaurant, unwind at the Winch Bar and Guest Lounge, or relax by the swimming pool. Experience comfortable accommodation in the heart of Kangaroo Island.
With over 30 years of local marine experience, KI Marine Adventures are passionate about Kangaroo Island and its untouched natural environment. This 3-hour tour is the only true wild dolphin swim experience on Kangaroo Island and is the perfect way to see some of the amazing wildlife that call the island home in the calm waters of the North Coast of Kangaroo Island. On board the custom-built vessel, the Energizer, this unforgettable marine adventure will provide the opportunity to swim with wild dolphins, listen to them communicate underwater with a hydrophone, and spot other wildlife including fur seals, eagles and osprey.
SeaLink Kangaroo Island’s ferry service operates between Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island and Cape Jervis (two hours south of Adelaide). The journey takes just 45 minutes for the 16km crossing.
Travel along the coastline of the St Vincent Gulf to the iconic McLaren Vale wine region. Here, you can visit galleries and taste wine at some of the 45 cellar doors, including Yangarra, d’Arenberg, and Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard. Then join the Southern Expressway into Glenelg, where sandy beaches, the jetty, and vibrant cafes await.
Glenelg is a vibrant beachside suburb of Adelaide, set on the white sands of Holdfast Bay. Established in 1836 as South Australia’s first mainland settlement, it was once the landing site for the state’s earliest settlers and home to the Kaurna people long before colonisation. Visit the Bay Discovery Centre to explore local and cultural history, then enjoy Glenelg’s turquoise waters and soft sands. Perfect for swimming, snorkelling and fishing. Lined with bars, restaurants, and boutique shops, Glenelg is ideal for a relaxed seaside evening. Families can visit The Beachouse for waterslides, arcade games and fun by the shore, while the coastline offers chances to spot seals, dolphins, and even the occasional whale.
Your accommodation: The George Glenelg
The George Glenelg is a stylish and contemporary hotel perfectly situated on Glenelg’s vibrant beachfront. Offering modern rooms and suites with elegant décor, the hotel provides easy access to the beach, local dining, and shopping. With excellent facilities, including a rooftop pool and bar, it’s an ideal base for both relaxing coastal escapes and exploring Adelaide’s lively seaside precinct.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 108 kms / 67 miles : 1.6 hours
Return your vehicle at the Adelaide Airport depot.
Farewell Adelaide today. If there is more of Australia or New Zealand you would like to explore, talk to your sales consultant about planning your next stop!