What can the kids do on Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island would have to be one of the best family holiday destinations, right on our doorstep. Once you have decided to visit KI get right on to booking your accommodation and your ferry. Some people don’t realise that bookings are essential for cars on the Sealink ferry and in busy times this can mean a long standby wait, or travelling at a very user unfriendly time. So my tip is get in early. KI Connect has hire cars and camper vans available on the island, so again book early.
The wildlife is a huge drawcard for children. You often don’t need to visit one of the wildlife parks to see a kangaroo, wallaby or perhaps a goanna. However we have great operators on the island who ensure a safe experience with the ability to even organise a private session for your family. Raptor Domain puts on an educational interactive bird experience which kids just love. For the “game” there is the venom pit where you can see and learn about our reptiles and even have a photo opportunity with them. The Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park gives visitors the opportunity to get close to the animals, you can hand feed kangaroos and wallabies and listen to the keepers stories about their favourites. Both venues have cafes and outdoor picnic areas.
If the kids are keen to burn off a bit of steam head to Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action where they can experience sandboarding or tobogganing on the amazing Little Sahara. Guided kayak tours and kayak hire is also available, as are guided bike tours. For those that like a little faster action you can join a quad bike tour.
Kangaroo Island is home to large pods of dolphins. You can join a marine tour with the option to swim with the dolpins in safe waters, or just watch from the comfort of the boat. Snorkelling equipment and wetsuits are supplied. KIMarineAdventures, KIOceanSafari.
Seal Bay is right up there in the top ten SA tourist destinations. Guided tours are run daily and if desired a private tour or sunset small group tour can be booked.
For those who would like to know a bit more about Kangaroo Island’s history we have a few volunteer operated museums. The Penneshaw Maritime and Folk Museum, Parndana Soldier Settlement Museum, and Hope Cottage Museum in Kingscote. Cape Willoughby Lighthouse is South Australia’s first lighthouse. Guided tours to the top are available.
American River has a rich heritage with signed trails. The starting point is the wharf where you can borrow maps to take you around the trails. A great group of volunteers are rebuilding the schooner Independence, originally built by American sealers in 1803. The work in progress is underway in a purpose built shed on the wharf, visitors are welcome.
Penneshaw is home to a newly developed sculpture trail. It is an easy meander through the natural environment with stunning views, surprising sculptures and resident roos.
The western end of the island is a fantastic spot to visit, with Flinders Chase, Rremarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, as of 4th July visitors will be able to access this area in their own car, however you might like to book tour with a registered tour operator. Kangaroo Island Hire a Guide, Kangaroo Island Odysseys, Kangaroo Island Adventure Tours, or Exceptional Kangaroo Island.
These are just suggestions you might like to take up, however Kangaroo Island is somewhere you can take time and discover by yourself. Enjoy beach walks and collecting washed up “treasures” . Cycle the back roads and you might just meet a wallaby hopping by or an echidna snuffling along. The waters are clean and enticing, so don’t forget your bathers.
Kangaroo Island isn’t just a destination, it is an experience and one that I bet will have you wanting to return.