Top reasons to visit Kangaroo Island during the cooler months

Kangaroo Island is a place of untouched beauty – perfect for adventurers, nature-lovers, bushwalkers and fishing fans.

While holidaymakers head there in summer for the sparkling days and warm nights, many are unaware that Kangaroo Island shines bright in the cooler months too.

Here, we look at the top reasons to explore the island in the cooler weather.

Adventure without the sweat

The fresh sea breeze makes just about any island activity more comfortable.

The bushwalking options are varied and always scenic. From invigorating treks in bracing winds straight off the Southern Ocean to serene cliff-top or beach walks in sunny conditions the next.

Try the Western River’s five-kilometre Waterfall Creek hike or for something more challenging, take the five-day Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail – one of Australia’s great walks.

Pennington Bay Beach is a surfer’s paradise and arguably the best beach for surfing on the Island. There’s also nearby Vivonne Bay for easier conditions.

Glide down Harriett River on a kayak or, for the thrill seeker, try Little Sahara Adventure Centre.

Wildlife is in abundance on Kangaroo Island. Photo: Supplied

Wildlife encounters

Wildlife is a year-round attraction on the island, but the cooler months offer some unique encounters. Kangaroo joeys are peeking from their pouches, young koalas are perched on their mother’s back, and the echidnas are out and about for mating season.

The Southern Right Whales also visit at this time every year.

Meander the boardwalks and viewing platforms at Seal Bay or pack your camera and go bird-watching. The island is home to bushbirds, raptors, parrots, waterfowl and shorebirds that can be seen and heard in most sheltered locations as the weather cools.

Pizza Kangaroo Island Brewery. Photo: Supplied

Indulge in comfort food and wine

From cosy dining experiences to warming winter reds at the cellar doors, the cooler months are the perfect time to sample the regional fare.

Cellar doors abound – there’s Dudley Wines breathtaking clifftop location, Cygnet River’s The Islander Estate and Springs Road, the coastal charm of Bay of Shoals, and False Cape Wines nestled among the picturesque vineyards.

Boutique gin distillery Kangaroo Island Spirits is a must-visit as well. If beer is more your thing, plan a stop at Kangaroo Island Brewery.

Local cafes and bakeries will keep you fuelled. Start with a hearty breakfast at Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, try the oversized lavender scones at Emu Bay Lavender Farm & Café or feast on fresh oysters at The Oyster Farm shop at American River. Dine among with fruit trees and feast on whatever seasonal vegetables are ripe at Millie Mae’s Pantry.

Dudley Wines. Photo: Supplied

Find beauty without the crowds

Kangaroo Island is a haven from long queues and crowded venues. The beaches are long, pristine, and there’s a good chance you’ll be the person there.

Take scenic drives along the coastal roads, visit iconic landmarks like Remarkable Rocks or Admirals Arch, and capture the island’s natural beauty from every angle. You’ll be free to explore without the summer crowds and grab those uninterrupted photo ops.

Known for its amazing fishing experiences, the cooler water will bring snapper, trout, salmon and King Gorge whiting. If you want to take advantage of local knowledge, take an Emu Bay Fishing Charters guided adventure.