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Okay Read MoreThings to do in Kangaroo Island in Winter
22nd June 2022
Not sure whether you should visit Kangaroo Island during winter? We’re here to convince you that a trip over the sea to our favourite South Australian island is a great idea. Whether it’s winter or summer, rain or shine, there’s more than enough to tempt you into booking a ferry ticket. Read on to learn about the best things to do in Kangaroo Island in winter and start planning your next trip!
Kangaroo Island in the cooler months
Just imagine this: quiet beaches, great food and wine, cosy log fires and coastal drives. What could be better for a winter weekend? Kangaroo Island offers the perfect recipe for a getaway, even in winter. Its lush landscapes and rugged coastlines send you home windswept and refreshed, ready for a new week. Meanwhile its restaurants and wineries keep you calm and cosy after days spend exploring the outdoors.
Ready to book your trip to Kangaroo island this winter? Below, we help you plan the perfect weekend, packed with food, wine, views and wildlife. Let’s go!
Things to do in Kangaroo Island in winter
Look out for whales
If you’re heading to Kangaroo Island in winter, you’ll be there at the ideal time for whale watching! Thanks to the migration path of Southern Wright whales, during the months of May-October sightings of whales in Kangaroo Island are not only possible but likely. At Penneshaw, Kingscote and Nepean Bay, Cape Willoughby and many more spots around the island, either park, set up with a picnic or head off for a walk and look out to see to capture glimpses of these magnificent creatures.
Pic credit: Kangaroo Island Spirits
Try some local spirits
As you may already know, Kangaroo Island is well known for its local produce and food. It is therefore fitting that during your visit during the winter months, you warm up with some Kangaroo Island Spirits! Located in Cygnet River, Kangaroo Island Spirits has a gorgeous little cellar door and gin garden where (with the help of a fire-pit in winter and some excellent hand-crafted gins) guests can soak up the wintery vibes of Kangaroo Island. Fragrant cocktails and gin and tonics await at Kangaroo Island Spirits!
Taste the wines
There’s no getting away from it – South Australia is a wine destination and Kangaroo Island is no exception to the rule. Blessed with a temperate climate, Kangaroo Island is perfect for grapes and as a result, there are some wonderful wines to taste during a winter stay on KI. Almost all of them are open to the public, which means a day of wine tasting is absolutely possible. Bay of Shoals, Dudley Wines and False Cape wines are all great places to start!
Sample some Kangaroo Island produce
Calling all foodies! Your visit to Kangaroo Island isn’t complete without a tour of the island’s best local stores or without a taste of its local products. Whether it’s seafood, honey, cheese or veggies you’re seeking there’ll be a local version available for purchase somewhere on KI. At The Oyster Farm Shop, views across the calm waters of American Bay are paired with incredible fresh oysters – both Pacific and native. Otherwise, add to your itinerary a visit to Clifford’s Honey Farm – a three-generation family run business in Haines – and drive back to the mainland with some local honey!
Go to Seal Conservation Park
It doesn’t have to be summer for you to enjoy looking at Kangaroo Island’s magnificent seals! Seal Conservation Park is a protected area located on the south coast and is home to the third largest Australian sea lion colony in Australia. Popular with tourists in summer, the conservation area is much quieter during winter months, making your visit a little more special. A 900-metre board walk takes you to views of not only sea lions but unspoiled wilderness. When it comes to things to do in Kangaroo Island in winter, this has to be on your list!
Pic credit: Megan Crabb / Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park
Visit Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park
Taking the kids on a KI trip this winter? Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park is a must-visit. Located in Duncan, the park is home to over 150 species of Native Australian wildlife and over 600 animals. Koalas, snakes, penguins, roos and more call this place home, plus, all the animal experiences you could wish for are right here if you’d like to try them!
Drop into the Lavender farm
Whether you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy shot, to get some fresh air or to purchase some gifts, home or beauty products, Emu Bay Lavender Farm is the place to be. Visit for a tour or even lunch at the friendly cafe – you won’t be disappointed! During a colder winter’s day this is the ideal place to unwind.
SA Weekend Escapes Top Hotel Pick!
Whilst there is a great deal of accommodation on Kangaroo Island, not much compares to Kangaroo Island Lodge. With an interesting history, a fabulous restaurant, saltwater pool and views of American River, this is just about as good as it gets.
For more information, check out their website.
Discount code: Get 10% off your next stay. Use the promotional code SAWE10 on our hotel’s website when booking.
For more information about Kangaroo Island and for some help planning your next trip, check out our Ultimate Guide to Kangaroo Island!