One of the many highlights of my recent five-week jaunt across Australia (read about my trip here) was my visit to Kangaroo Island. Just a short flight from Adelaide, this remarkable destination invites you to slow down and soak in its breathtaking natural beauty.
Despite what many people think, Kangaroo Island isn’t some tiny speck in the sea. It’s Australia’s third-largest island, stretching 100 miles from east to west, with over a third of its land protected as nature reserves and conservation parks. This commitment to preserving its unique ecosystem is evident everywhere you look.
During my time on the island, I had the privilege of staying at the exquisite Southern Ocean Lodge (or SOL as it’s fondly referred to). Perched on Kangaroo Island’s southwest coast, it overlooks the white sands of Hanson Bay and appears to hover above the cliffs, offering jaw-dropping views across the Southern Ocean, the last stop before Antarctica.
The scenic hour-long drive from the airport set the tone for the adventure. Our guide navigating the winding roads with care, ever watchful for kangaroos bounding out from the bush. The Island suffered devastating bushfires in 2020, which reduced much of the landscape and the original lodge to ashes. But what I discovered was that far from a barren wasteland, the island is alive with regeneration. A vibrant green carpet of new growth signals the island’s comeback and the wildlife flourishes in abundance - a powerful symbol of nature’s resilience.
Crossing the threshold at SOL into the Great Room was a true “wow” moment. The coastal wilderness of the Southern Ocean unfolding in front of me in all its raw, expansive glory.
Twenty-five luxury suites ease along the curve of the limestone cliffs, each one named after shipwrecks dotted around the island. My suite was a haven of muted tones and natural materials, with fabrics featuring subtle kangaroo motifs to remind me exactly where I was. Complete with a sunken lounge, outdoor terrace and floor-to-ceiling windows, the suite opened up to the sky, bush and that unforgettable ocean view.
It’s hard to drag yourself away from the lodge, but Kangaroo Island’s wildlife and wilderness are too irresistible to miss. Wonderful self-guided coastal walks start right from the doorstep - squint and you might spot endangered ospreys nesting on the lodge’s western cliff-face or dolphins dancing in the sea.
The all-inclusive rate at SOL includes “signature experiences” - small group adventures led by passionate, knowledgeable naturalist guides. In the vast Flinders Chase National Park, the stars for dramatic geology were the aptly named Remarkable Rocks - ancient giant sculptural formations - as well as the ocean-battered rocks of Admirals Arch, where a colony of long-nosed fur seals live.
A sunset stroll amongst koalas and kangaroos was magical followed by drinks in the bush as the sky turned orange.
Another highlight was a visit to Seal Bay, where I walked along the beach amongst a colony of endangered Australian sea lions.
Back at the lodge, the Great Room is the social hub where guests mingle over pre-dinner drinks of artisanal gins and superb local wines. Whilst the food was always a delight, with an ever-changing menu that rolled with the seasons, showcasing the best of the island’s produce.
From the iconic Southern Ocean Lodge to watching a koala sip water by a river and getting up close with endangered sea lions, Kangaroo Island delivered on every front. It’s a place that captures your heart and leaves you longing to return.
If Kangaroo Island is calling your name, please do get in touch. I’d love to help you create your own unforgettable adventure.