Solo Adventure to Kangaroo Island

Beneath the Surface and Beside the Sea

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey from the depths of the earth to the sun-kissed shores of Kangaroo Island. It was a day filled with wonder, delicious food, and the kind of peaceful moments that make traveling solo so rewarding. It's days like these that remind me why I started this blog, to share these experiences and inspire others to seek out their own adventures.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at The Kiosk Penneshaw. The cafe is conveniently located near the SeaLink Ferry Terminal. I opted for their buffet breakfast. With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off to explore the island's hidden gems. The weather was pleasant, with clear skies and a gentle breeze, perfect for a day of exploration.

My first stop was Kelly Hill Caves, a subterranean world hidden beneath the rolling hills of the island. The drive there was scenic, with glimpses of the coastline and the rugged landscape that defines Kangaroo Island. I was excited about this particular attraction, especially after reading about the recent upgrades to the visitor experience.

Arriving at Kelly Hill Caves, I was immediately struck by the sense of history and mystery that permeated the air. The caves are part of the Kelly Hill Conservation Park, and the surrounding area is a testament to the island's natural beauty. Before descending into the depths, I took a walk around the area, admiring the rejuvenated trees and shrubbery.

The guided tour began with an above-ground walk, where I learned about the geological history of the caves. It turns out that these caves were once sandy hills, transformed over millions of years by the sea and wind into the limestone formations we see today. It's fascinating to think that these formations are still relatively young, at under 500,000 years old.

As I descended into the caves, I was immediately transported to another world. The air was cool and damp, and the silence was broken only by the sound of dripping water. The stalactites and stalagmites, formed over millennia, created a surreal and breathtaking landscape. The new audio-visual experience was truly immersive, with narration and a dynamic light display that brought the history of the caves to life. It was amazing to see how the roots of the eucalyptus trees above reached down into the caverns, a testament to the interconnectedness of nature.

Nature has again created some of its finest work here, with caves full of beautiful yet fragile stalagmites, stalactites, helictites and towering columns that transport visitors to another world.

Our guide shared stories of the caves' discovery and the early explorers who navigated these underground tunnels by candlelight. It was a humbling experience to imagine what it must have been like to explore these depths with such limited light. The guide turned off all the lights, shrouding us in total darkness, and then lit a single match to show what it was like for the early explorers who navigated these underground tunnels with just a tiny amount of light.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Kelly Hill Caves is the animal fossils that have been found here. These include the remains of the Kangaroo Island dwarf emu and the short-faced kangaroo, both of which are now extinct. It's a reminder of the island's rich history and the changes it has undergone over time.


Discover the stunning limestone formations and rich biodiversity at Kelly Hill Caves, a must-visit attraction on Kangaroo Island.

Stepping out of the cool darkness of Kelly Hill Caves, I was ready for lunch. I drove to Kingscote to try KI Tru Thai. The restaurant is known for its authentic Thai street food and lively atmosphere. Although some reviews mentioned mixed experiences with the food quality, I was intrigued by the local charm and decided to give it a try.

KI Tru Thai turned out to be a unique experience. The setting was indeed a shed, but it was decorated with colorful lights and Thai decorations. There was live music playing, which added to the festive atmosphere. I ordered a Pad Thai and a Thai iced tea. The food was tasty and affordable, and the service was friendly. It was a fun and casual dining experience that I would recommend to anyone looking for a taste of Thailand on Kangaroo Island.

With my appetite satisfied, I headed to Snelling Beach, a picturesque haven on the north coast of Kangaroo Island. The drive to the beach was beautiful, with rolling hills and stunning coastal views. Snelling Beach is known for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and sheltered shallows.

As I arrived at Snelling Beach, I was immediately struck by its beauty. The beach was wide and inviting, with gentle waves lapping at the shore. The sand was soft and white, perfect for a leisurely stroll. I took off my shoes and walked along the beach, enjoying the feel of the sand between my toes and the cool breeze on my face.

Snelling Beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and fishing. There are also picnic areas and public restrooms available, making it a great place to spend the day. I saw families building sandcastles, couples walking hand-in-hand, and surfers riding the waves. It was a scene of pure relaxation and enjoyment.

I found a secluded spot on the beach and laid out my towel. I spent the next few hours swimming in the clear waters, sunbathing on the sand, and reading my book. It was the perfect way to unwind and soak up the beauty of Kangaroo Island. I even spotted some dolphins playing in the distance, which was a magical sight.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Snelling Beach in South Australia, a perfect getaway for relaxation, nature walks, and stunning sunsets.

As the sun began to set, I packed up my things and headed to Fire and Smoke Ki for dinner. This restaurant in Penneshaw offers an extensive menu of local seafood, pizzas, and grilled dishes. I decided to try their wood-fired pizza, which was delicious. The crust was crispy and the toppings were fresh and flavorful.

After dinner, I took a walk along the Penneshaw foreshore, enjoying the cool evening air and the sound of the waves. The town was quiet and peaceful, with only a few people out and about. I reflected on my day of adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful island.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Seal Bay Beach and Bales Bay Lookout, continuing my exploration of Kangaroo Island's stunning coastline. I might also check out the Penneshaw Beach Bar for a relaxing evening drink.

As I head back to my accommodation, I'm already looking forward to another day of adventure on Kangaroo Island. This solo trip has been everything I hoped for and more, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. My wife, Mei, and son, Wei, would have loved today. Perhaps next time, I'll bring them along to experience the magic of Kangaroo Island.

One thing I realized I forgot to pack was sunscreen. Luckily, I didn't get too much sun today, but I'll definitely need to buy some tomorrow. Insect repellent would also be a good idea, as the mosquitoes can be quite active in the evenings.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

Kangaroo Island continues to surprise and delight me. From the depths of Kelly Hill Caves to the sun-drenched shores of Snelling Beach, this island is a treasure trove of natural beauty and unique experiences. I'm so glad I decided to embark on this solo adventure, and I can't wait to share more of my discoveries with you.

There was a movie being shown today called Kangaroo Island at the Montreal Community Theatre. It's about a woman who returns to Kangaroo Island and unearths family secrets. It sounds like a good movie, but I didn't have time to see it today. Maybe I'll catch it another time.

There are a few events happening on Kangaroo Island this month, including the Grenache & Gourmet festival in McLaren Vale. It's a celebration of wine and food, with tastings, masterclasses, and unique experiences. I might have to check that out before I leave the region. I am also keeping an eye out for any fire warnings from the South Australian Country Fire Service.