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The Ultimate Kangaroo Island Itinerary for Vanlifers
Photo by Lisa Hurst
South Australia is recognised for multiple things – Innes National Park, the Australian Bight and wineries at the Barossa Valley. But beneath the mainland is South Australia’s best kept secret – Kangaroo Island – the birthplace of South Australian seafood and epitome of the Australian lifestyle. Unfortunately, Kangaroo Island is notoriously expensive and protected from freecamping, making the location an impossibility for vanlifers. UNTIL NOW! This September, I tried and tested Kangaroo Island to develop the ULTIMATE itinerary for vanlifers, which is scalable in budget and resources. Get booking!
1. Fleurieu Peninsula
The Fleurieu Peninsula is located 40 minutes South of Adelaide and acclaimed for producing some of South Australia's finest coastal and culinary experiences. Explore the charming township of Victor Harbor or adventure to Normanville for scubadiving or relaxing beachside. For alcohol drinkers, the Fleurieu Peninsula is home to McLaren Vale, the birthplace of sustainable winemaking and unparalleled gastronomic experiences. So whether you board the Cockle Train, embark on winetastings at d'Arenberg Cube or explore the coastline with Velo Vino, you won’t be disappointed.
Accommodation
Budget | Rapid Bay Campground | $12 AUD
Luxury | Sea & Stars Second Valley | $150 AUD
Photos by Madison Hurst
2. Penneshaw
Penneshaw is most often a stopover for tourists – which is unfortunate, because Penneshaw is home to stunning coastlines and luxurious accommodation. When in Penneshaw, consider exploring the acclaimed Dudley Wines, visiting the Penguin Sanctuary or supporting a small business at the Penneshaw Markets – continuing to recover from 2019 and 2020 bushfires in Kangaroo Island.
Accommodation
Budget | Penneshaw Seafront Holiday Park | $23 AUD Luxury | Kangaroo Island Seafront | $180 AUD
3. Pink Bay
The rumours are correct! Pink Bay is covered in magenta and thankfully, synonymous with relaxation. Because Pink Bay is remote, fishing and whale watching are essentials on the agenda – topped off with magical sunsets at dawn.
Accommodation
Budget | Antechamber Bay North Campground | $17 AUD
Luxury | Sea Dragon Lodge | $418 AUD
4. Flinders Chase National Park
Flinders Chase National Park is arguably Kangaroo Islands most infamous, surreal and beautiful location. The options are endless, but consider a tourgroup to Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, which are common but unmissable. Remember – should you decide to venture to Flinders Chase National Park in absence of tourguides, daypasses for campers to enter are essential at $11AUD per adult.
Accommodation
Budget | Vivonne Bay Campground | $17AUD
Luxury | Ecopia Retreat | $660AUD
Photos by Madison Hurst
6. Kingscote
Kingscote is located North East of Flinders Chase and provides a localised, township vibe. When in Kingscote, take the time to relax beachside at nearby Emu Bay (Kangaroo Islands only drivable beach – perfect for vanlifers) or venture to Kangaroo Island Spirits for some of Australia’s finest gin tastings.
Accommodation
Budget | Emu Bay Campground | $20 AUD
Luxury | Hamilton and Dune | $340AUD
Photos by Lisa Hurst
6. Return
All good things must come to an end! Thankfully, your ferry passes should be previously arranged for Sealink (bookings are return), so enjoy the transportation and reflect on the beauty of Kangaroo Island!
(Google Maps 2021)
Handy Hints.
Refuel at Penneshaw (and preferably a jerrycan) if possible. Kangaroo Island is scarce and petrol prices only increase along the coastline.
Likewise, purchase a variety of snacks and water at Penneshaw or beforehand to avoid stopping at shopping centres (which are scarce + pricey in Kangaroo Island).
Bookings for ferries on Sealink (Cape Jervis to Penneshaw) are essential and constantly in demand for larger vehicles so book in advance.
The majority of Kangaroo Island is protected by National Parks, meaning no cooking, bonfires or camping. Ensure you familiarise yourself with Parks South Australia who describes the protected locations of Kangaroo Island at length.
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