Solo Adventure to Kangaroo Island

Creatures Great and Small
Today was a day of contrasts, from the lively inhabitants of Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park to the quiet shores of Emu Bay. It was a reminder of the diverse beauty this island holds, and how each experience, whether bustling with life or serene in its stillness, adds to the rich tapestry of my solo adventure.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Glossy Black in American River. Though the restaurant is known for dinner, I was able to grab a quick bite before heading out. Fuelled up, I set off towards the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park.

The drive itself was scenic, with glimpses of the island's rugged interior. As I approached the park, the anticipation of seeing some of Australia's iconic wildlife up close filled me with excitement. Arriving at the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, I was immediately struck by the sheer variety of animals. From kangaroos and wallabies freely roaming around to koalas lazily munching on eucalyptus leaves, it was a wildlife enthusiast's dream come true.


Discover the unique wildlife of Kangaroo Island at the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, where conservation meets family-friendly fun.
I spent a good couple of hours exploring the park, taking my time to observe and interact with the animals. Feeding the kangaroos was a particular highlight, their gentle nature and soft fur making for a heartwarming encounter. I even managed to get a cuddle with a koala, an experience that left me grinning from ear to ear. The park is home to over 150 species of native Australian wildlife and over 600 animals. I saw wombats, quolls, birds, penguins, echidnas, snakes, lizards, and crocodiles.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand expeditions, but in the quiet moments of connection with the natural world.

One of the unique aspects of Kangaroo Island is the subspecies of kangaroos that reside here. Due to their prolonged isolation, they've evolved to be shorter, stockier, and have a darker, more chocolatey brown fur compared to their mainland counterparts. It's fascinating to witness firsthand how nature adapts and molds species to thrive in specific environments.

After immersing myself in the vibrant wildlife of the park, I decided to head towards Emu Bay, a coastal haven known for its pristine beach and tranquil atmosphere. The drive from the park to Emu Bay was relatively short, and as I approached the coast, the landscape transformed into a picturesque vista of white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Emu Bay, South Australia – a hidden gem for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Emu Bay is renowned for being one of the few beaches on Kangaroo Island where you can drive your car directly onto the sand, a unique experience that adds to its charm. I parked near the jetty and took a leisurely stroll along the beach, soaking in the peaceful ambiance. The beach stretches for 4.5 kilometers, offering ample space for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, or simply relaxing.

The Emu Bay jetty is a great place to walk and take in the views. It is also a good fishing spot. I kept my eye out for pelicans. I saw the Mini de Lights pop up café, which has a great range of snacks. Emu Bay is one of the locations on Kangaroo Island where you can take a cruise to swim with wild dolphins.

As the day drew to a close, I treated myself to a delightful dinner at Sunset Food and Wine. Fortunately, it was open for dinner because it is open for lunch only on Tuesdays. This modern Australian bistro, known for its focus on seafood and local produce, provided the perfect culinary experience to cap off a day of exploration.


Discover exquisite dining at Sunset Food and Wine in Kangaroo Head, where local ingredients meet culinary artistry amidst breathtaking views.
The restaurant's location just outside of Penneshaw offered spectacular ocean views, enhancing the dining experience. I opted for the chef's tasting menu, a multi-course shared experience that showcased the best of Kangaroo Island's seasonal flavors. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared and expertly paired with local wines, creating a harmonious blend of taste and aroma. Jack Ingram's passion for local produce shines through in every dish.

Reflecting on my day, I realized how fortunate I am to have the opportunity to explore such incredible places. Kangaroo Island has a way of captivating your senses and leaving you with a sense of wonder. From the playful kangaroos and cuddly koalas to the serene beaches and breathtaking sunsets, every moment is a treasure to be cherished.

Before heading back to my accommodation, I made a quick stop at Thermal Theory || AUSTRALIA. I wanted to pick up a warm Sherpa hoodie. It gets chilly here in the evenings, and Thermal Theory is a local Kangaroo Island business. I was happy to support a local business.


Discover unique fashion and local styles at Thermal Theory, Australia's premier clothing destination for tourists and fashion lovers alike.
Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area and Stokes Bay, continuing my exploration of Kangaroo Island's natural wonders. I'm particularly excited about Stokes Bay, as I've heard it's a hidden gem with a unique rock tunnel leading to a secluded beach. I also plan to check out the Kangaroo Island Yacht Club.

The sun has now set, painting the sky with hues of orange and purple. As I sit here, penning down my thoughts, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences this journey has offered me. It's moments like these that make travel so enriching, allowing me to connect with nature, discover new cultures, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Additional notes and observations from today:

Wildlife Encounters: The Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park is home to more than 150 species of native Australian wildlife. The park operates an Adoption Program, where you can adopt an animal to assist with its care and feeding. The park also acts as a Rescue Centre for koalas and other native wildlife.

Emu Bay Activities: Emu Bay is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, or just relaxing. The Lavender Farm near Emu Bay offers great meals and coffee.

Dining Experience: Sunset Food and Wine offers a comprehensive menu and enjoys stunning views over Eastern Cove. On Saturday nights, Sunset Food and Wine offers a five-course degustation menu.

Shopping: Thermal Theory is a small regional business based on Kangaroo Island in South Australia. Thermal Theory fills a niche in the leisurewear market for super-warm, high-quality jumpers and trackies for everyday use.

Glossy Black Cockatoos: The glossy black-cockatoo we have on Kangaroo Island is a separate sub-species to those found in eastern Australia. The 2019-2020 bushfires have now meant that a great deal of both feeding and nesting habitat have been lost. Recovery efforts for the species began in 1995, when the population was at a low of 158 individuals.

Lunch at Amanda's Takeaway: Amanda's Takeaway is a popular fast food restaurant located in Kingscote, South Australia. The menu features an impressive selection of classic fast food favorites, including burgers, fish and chips, and vegetarian options. There is a vegan burger with chick pea vegetable patty, lettuce & sweet chilli.

Kangaroo Island is also known as the Galapagos of Australia.