Solo Adventure to Kangaroo Island

A Day of Art, Ales, and Island Air

Today was a blend of art, local flavors, and the simple pleasures of island life. It's amazing how much character a single day can hold when you're open to the unexpected. From quirky art installations to the hoppy aromas of a local brewery, Kangaroo Island continues to surprise and delight me.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at The Rockpool Cafe. I was hoping for the location in Stokes Bay , but it seems there is also a Rockpool Cafe at the Kangaroo Island Airport. I opted for the former and enjoyed the fresh sea air, and fueled up with a classic Aussie breakfast – eggs, bacon, and a perfectly brewed coffee. The cafe had a relaxed vibe, and I could easily see why it's a local favorite. It’s the kind of place where you can sit for hours, watching the waves and letting your thoughts drift away. I made a mental note to bring Mei and Wei here someday; they'd love the laid-back atmosphere.


Experience the flavors of Cassini at The Rockpool Cafe, where delicious meals meet stunning coastal views.
Fueled and ready, I set off to Kingscote to see the Kingscote Silo Art. Having seen silo art in other parts of Australia, I was keen to witness Kangaroo Island's take on this unique art form. The Kingscote Silo Art was truly impressive. The massive kangaroo and the glossy black cockatoo leaping out of the silo was a sight to behold. The sheer scale of the mural is awe-inspiring, and the artists, Cam Scale and Andrew Davis, have done an incredible job of capturing the essence of Kangaroo Island's wildlife. I spent a good hour wandering around, taking photos from different angles, and admiring the intricate details.


Explore the captivating Kingscote Silo Art in South Australia, where vibrant murals celebrate local culture and wildlife in an outdoor gallery setting.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

After immersing myself in art, it was time for lunch. I headed over to So Sando in Kingscote, a sandwich shop that had been recommended to me by a local. Apparently, there was a sandwich-shaped gap in the market until recently. So Sando offers a range of light bites, toasties and sandwiches as well as a delicious range of drinks from single-origin batch brew coffee to smoothies and bubble tea. I opted for one of their specials, a Cuban sandwich with a fried egg, and a black sesame iced latte. The sandwich was delicious, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures, and the iced latte was a refreshing treat on a warm day. The staff were super friendly and the vibe was warm and welcoming. It’s clear that they put a lot of love and care into their food, and it really makes a difference. I can see why it's considered the best cafe on the island.


Discover So Sando in Kingscote – where delightful cuisine meets warm hospitality in South Australia.
With my belly full and my spirits high, I decided to explore the Kangaroo Island Brewery. As Kangaroo Island’s first cellar door microbrewery, it seemed like the perfect place to unwind and sample some local brews. The brewery is located on a sprawling 20-acre property, with plenty of space for kids to play and couples to relax. I sampled a couple of their beers, and I particularly enjoyed the rustic vibe of the place. It’s clear that the owner, Mike, has put a lot of heart and soul into creating a unique and welcoming space. The brewery had a great atmosphere, and I could easily have spent the entire afternoon there, sipping beers and soaking up the sun.


Experience the authentic flavors of Kangaroo Island at the Kangaroo Island Brewery, where local ingredients meet exceptional brewing.
Before dinner, I decided to check out Kangaroo Island Ciders. Graham and Mary Jones run Kangaroo Island Ciders, using apples grown in their Kangaroo Island orchards to make Colony Cove ciders and sparkling apple juice. They chose Kangaroo Island as it has a cool climate with adequate winter chilling for most cider apples. I learned that they have over 30 varieties of cider and dessert apples, with more than 600 trees to select from when making the range of hand-crafted multi-award-winning Ciders & Sparkling Juices. I sampled a few of their ciders, and I was impressed by the quality and the unique flavors. It’s clear that Graham and Mary are passionate about what they do, and their ciders are a testament to their hard work and dedication.


Discover the exquisite taste of locally crafted ciders at Kangaroo Island Ciders, where stunning landscapes meet artisanal flavors.
For dinner, I headed to the Kangaroo Island Lodge Bar & Lounge in American River. The bar & lounge is the ideal place for a drink or bite to eat whilst staying at the hotel or visiting American River. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, with a cozy fireplace and comfortable seating. The menu featured local produce, and I opted for the fresh seafood platter. The seafood was incredibly fresh and flavorful, and it was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Kangaroo Island.


Discover culinary delights at Kangaroo Island Lodge Bar & Lounge - where breathtaking views meet exquisite local flavors in South Australia.
As I sit here now, reflecting on the day, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this beautiful island. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the chance to discover new places, meet new people, and immerse myself in different cultures. I was also reminded of the importance of sunscreen and insect repellent, two items I had forgotten to pack [].

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Cape Borda Lighthouse and George's Castle []. I’m looking forward to exploring the rugged coastline and learning more about the island's history. Until then, I'll raise a glass to Kangaroo Island – a place that has captured my heart and my imagination.