Getting to Kangaroo Island: Why Flying Is Worth Considering

If you usually take the ferry to Kangaroo Island, it’s worth trying something different this time. Flying in is quick, the airport in Kingscote is a breeze, and the views on the way over are a bonus you simply don’t get from the ferry. And especially when Sealink spots are hard to come by, flying is a handy alternative to have up your sleeve.

The Second Way to Get to Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island often gets filed mentally as a “ferry trip”. You picture the drive down to Cape Jervis, the views from the ferry and the horizon of Kingscote sliding closer. That’s just how most people picture getting there. But the downside of the ferry is that it can make Kangaroo Island feel a little hard to get to.

The ferry works well if you plan far enough ahead. It’s also a very comfortable 45-minute ride across the water with modern lounges and a café that float there with you. But during holidays and peak season, vehicle spaces can be finite and suddenly a spontaneous escape idea depends on available crossings.

Add in the drive to Cape Jervis, and Kangaroo Island can start to feel like a mission, especially for shorter stays.

That’s where flying comes in.

Flying to Kangaroo Island

Taking a flight to Kangaroo Island rarely comes up in conversation, but not only is it a genuine option, it’s actually a great way to go.

There are twelve scheduled flights from Adelaide into Kingscote Airport per week with Qantas, with the flight itself taking around 30 to 40 minutes. And because you’re flying into a small regional airport, the process tends to be quicker than you’d expect.

Plus, when you swap sea for air, there’s no need to factor in a long drive. Most travellers arrive at Adelaide Airport an hour before departure, board, and are on the island not long after (the airport in Kingscote is tiny!).

The Views

One of the underrated reasons to fly to Kangaroo Island is what you see out the window.

People literally pay for scenic flights around the island, and so flying in gives you a version of that experience as part of the journey itself. From Adelaide, your flight heads out over Gulf St Vincent and south, with the Fleurieu Peninsula coastline in view before crossing the water toward the island.

Then, as the plane approaches Nepean Bay and descends into Kingscote, you get a clear sense of the island’s layout, its coastline, sheer size, farmland and bush, all in one sweep.

If you’ve already visited by ferry, choosing a flight this time can make for an exciting change. It might be a short flight, but it’s definitely a scenic one and it gives you some handy mapping context before you land.

When You Arrive

Regular flyers will be delighted by the general ease of Kingscote Airport. You step off the plane, grab your bag, and that’s more or less it! Car hire is right there and so you’re pretty swiftly on your way.

What’s important to note is that Kangaroo Island doesn’t have public transport in the way cities do, so most people either hire a car, book a tour, or organise a private transfer ahead of time.

Hiring a car of course gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, while tours like this one are a good option if you’re looking to do some sightseeing and would rather have someone else do the driving and show you around.

Where To Stay On Kangaroo Island

Staying at American River places you well for this side of the island. You’re close to Kingscote, within easy reach of the airport, and well positioned for wildlife experiences, coastal walks and local food stops.

Kangaroo Island Lodge sits right on the water at American River, looking out across the bay. This quiet corner is known for its calm water, birdlife and views, and the hotel certainly makes the most of its position.

The main building is positioned to face the water, with shared spaces that open out toward the bay rather than turning inward.

On site, there’s a restaurant and bar overlooking the water, plus there’s a unique saltwater swimming pool, positioned to take advantage of the outlook, along with indoor and outdoor lounge areas where guests gather in the evenings.

Recently added to the property are the new luxury villas, which sit alongside the lodge but offer a more secluded and exclusive style of stay. The brand new villas are modern and well-finished, with generous living spaces, full kitchens, and large windows that frame the surrounding water and landscape.

Book your stay at Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge.