Other attractions
Inspiration for self-drivers or those staying four nights or longer
Kangaroo Island is an undiscovered gem. There is much to do, see and experience on the island. For nature lovers, there is a multitude of nature walks and sightseeing options that include historical lighthouses and coastal towns. If you love the water then consider the marine based activities such as snorkelling with the dolphins or cruising the coast.
For our more adventurous guests, you can explore Kangaroo Island on a quad bike or rip down the dunes on a sandboard. The Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park is also an option to see many of Australia’s native animals up close as well as many that have been introduced.
Nature-based activities
At 4,405 km2, Kangaroo Island is Australia’s third largest island, with over 510 kms of majestic coastline. While its emerging culinary and wine scene is fast promoting the island as a destination of choice, it is its pristine wilderness and wildlife that have captured the imagination of many visitors and laid the foundations for ecotourism to thrive.
The island breathes nature. Every turn on every road will delight you with new vistas and new natural experiences. From the ocean and the island’s vast coastline to the rolling inner hills, this is an island that embraces and nurtures its natural environment with plenty of activities and tours to help you explore it.
Quad Bike tours, sand boarding & kayaking
KI Outdoor Action, located at Vivonne Bay, is an award-winning tour operator offering nature-based quad bike tours and sandboarding at Little Sahara and kayaking in a calm river.
Be prepared for a diverse range of adrenaline rushes that will have you seeking more day after day!
Flavours of Petite Provence
We are proud to support the passion project of our lead tour guide Bridgette, along with her husband Kym who have developed a great farmgate experience showcasing their eco-friendly permaculture produce as well as stocking other products from local providores.
This is an interesting and educational dive into sustainable produce production which we are proud to support
Island Beehive
Being one of the first organic honey producers in Australia, Peter is a leading voice in the honey production industry in Australia and is proactive in protecting and promoting the Ligurian Bee heritage.
Visit with Peter and his team to understand the importance of this biodiversity adventure and sample simply the best honey on the island!
Raptor Domain
The Raptor Domain is an education and rehabilitation centre which provides interactive experiences with wildlife. It offers a great free-flight display showcasing many of Australia’s raptors including the majestic Wedge-Tail Eagle. Most of the birds have been injured or orphaned and are not suitable for release. They are now amazing ambassadors for their species. Every day these beautiful birds enjoy showing people their hunting techniques and natural behaviours.
Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park
Most Australian animals can be seen at the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, including species not native to the island. The park does great work rehabilitating injured or orphaned animals. This was particularly evident in their work treating animals that were injured in the 2020 fires. If you are looking for close interaction with animals, for example, hand-feeding or especially holding and cuddling a variety of animals, then you will love this park.
Swimming with dolphins and seals
- KI Ocean Safari – Located at Penneshaw
A South Australian Tourism Hall of Fame operator, KI Ocean Safaris provide a world-class marine mammal experience. They offer marine tours where you will see dolphins, seals and other marine life. If you want to meet these animals up close and personal, then try their Swim With the Dolphins or Seals tour bookable through Sea Dragon.
Lighthouses and walks
Kangaroo Island has three major lighthouses, including the oldest in South Australia.
These lighthouses were crucial for the safety of early shipping to South Australia and still assist modern-day shipping. Their history is fascinating with all of them set in spectacular locations.
Cape Willoughby Lighthouse
This is the oldest lighthouse in South Australia. Daily tours can be taken through the museum and to the top of the lighthouse. The views are awesome! Cape Willoughby Lighthouse is a 30-minute walk or quick drive from Sea Dragon.
Cape Du Couedic Lighthouse
This lighthouse is located in Flinders Chase National Park on the southwest tip of the island. It is close to Admiral’s Arch and Remarkable Rocks
Cape Borda Lighthouse
Cape Borda lighthouse is on the northwest corner of the island and has a very interesting history. It is quite remote and usually not visited because of its remote location. However, if you have plenty of time, there are some great walks nearby and the views are spectacular
Historical villages
Kangaroo Island has three historic villages well worth exploring that have played integral roles in the development of culture on the island.
As gateways from mainland Australia, the first townships and the birthplace of tourism, each of these towns represent the timeline of the days of European settlement to today
American River
American River is considered the birthplace of tourism on Kangaroo Island. It is now a delightful fishing village about 35 minutes from Sea Dragon.
The American River wharf in the centre of town was originally used by some of the first industries on Kangaroo Island. Salt, mallee wood and gypsum were shipped from here to Port Adelaide. The wharf is a great spot to try some fishing or watch the pelicans that are abundant in this area.
At American River, you can also view the reconstruction of the “SS Independence” which was originally built by American sealers in the early 1800s. Seafood lovers should try the delicious oysters fresh from the ocean at the Oyster Farm Shop.
Enjoy a peaceful bushwalk around the bay to see the native fauna and birdlife.
Kingscote
In 1836, the first European settlers to come to South Australia arrived at Reeves Point and established the town of Kingscote. The area now features paths with monuments, such as an old mulberry tree (planted in 1836 and still bears fruit), the old jetty, the island’s first well, the old post office and the Pioneer Cemetery. It was originally intended that Kingscote would serve as the capital of South Australia but the island’s resources were insufficient to support such a large community. Reeves Point has been placed on the Australian Heritage Places List.
Kingscote is the island’s largest town with approximately 2,500 residents.
This town has facilities including a hospital and medical centre, chemist, supermarket, butcher, fresh seafood, hardware and many other small shops. It also has a number of cafes and several restaurants. Kingscote is 74km from Sea Dragon.
Penneshaw
Penneshaw is the gateway to Kangaroo Island and is the main ferry port for the island. Located on the northeast tip of Dudley Peninsula, Penneshaw is the island’s second-biggest town. It is situated about 26 kilometres from Sea Dragon.
The sandy shores of Hog Bay in the centre of town provide a safe beach for swimming. If you want something more adventurous, try a swim with dolphins and seals with KI Ocean Safaris.
Penneshaw has a variety of places to eat including the Penneshaw Hotel, Millie Mae’s Cafe, Sorrento’s Pizza, The Fat Beagle Cafe and Smoke & Fire Pizza. Nearby Sunset Food & Wine provides a fabulous fine dining venue with great views.
