Family Adventure to Kangaroo Island: Nature and Wildlife

A Fond Farewell to Kangaroo Island

As our Kangaroo Island adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family. From stunning landscapes to unique wildlife encounters, this island has truly captured our hearts. Today, we savored the last moments, indulging in local flavors and exploring hidden gems, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Our final day began with a delightful breakfast at Amadio’s Vino e Cucina in Kingscote. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and Italian pastries filled the air, instantly transporting me back to my early days in Canada where I worked at a family owned Italian bakery. It was a perfect way to start the day. Chef Fabio Rocco Ricciardi, formerly with Ferrari's Formula 1 racing team, brings the traditional tastes of his hometown of Modena to Kangaroo Island. We savored every bite, reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip. Elena particularly enjoyed the cappuccino, declaring it the best she’s had outside of Italy. Miguel, of course, went for the heartier option, devouring a plate of scrambled eggs with local bacon. I opted for a simple cornetto, enjoying the buttery, flaky pastry with my strong black coffee. It was the perfect fuel for our final day of exploration.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to Seal Bay to see the Humpback Whale Skeleton. The sheer size of the skeleton was awe-inspiring, a stark reminder of the magnificent creatures that roam our oceans. Miguel, ever the inquisitive one, peppered me with questions about the whale's life and how it ended up on the shores of Kangaroo Island. I did my best to answer, drawing on my limited knowledge and supplementing it with information from the nearby information boards. Elena, always the compassionate one, spoke of the importance of marine conservation and protecting these gentle giants for future generations. The skeleton itself was a juvenile, having washed ashore during a storm in 1984. It's a humbling sight, this massive structure of bone against the backdrop of the beautiful Seal Bay.


Experience the awe of the Humpback Whale Skeleton in Seal Bay, a unique tourist attraction that highlights marine life and conservation efforts.

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

Next on our itinerary was Dudley Wines, Kangaroo Island's pioneer winery. The drive there was stunning, with rolling hills and glimpses of the ocean in the distance. As we approached the clifftop cellar door, the panoramic views of mainland Australia took my breath away. The Howard family, who have been on Kangaroo Island since 1883, warmly welcomed us. We sampled a selection of their wines, each one reflecting the unique terroir of the island. I particularly enjoyed the Sheoak Shiraz, its rich, fruity notes a perfect complement to the stunning scenery. Elena, who usually prefers white wine, surprised herself by enjoying the Sparkling Pinot Noir Chardonnay. Miguel, of course, stuck to the grape juice, but even he appreciated the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The cellar door itself is perched on the cliff tops, offering unparalleled views of the ocean. We learned that Dudley Wines is a hands-on family business, established in 1997. Fifth-generation Islander Brodie Howard brings creativity, passion, and uniqueness to every bottle he produces. The winery uses sustainable practices in every area of their business, and their wines are all vegan friendly and low in sulphur. I found myself admiring their commitment to both quality and sustainability. We also had a go at 'Golf across the Gully', a quirky one-hole golf course. It was a bit of fun, and Miguel especially enjoyed trying to hit the ball into the old dinghy on the hillside.


Kangaroo Island's pioneer winery with stunning views, handcrafted wines, and unique island experiences for the whole family.

After a morning of wine tasting, we headed to Penneshaw for lunch at The Kiosk. This laid-back, coastal-friendly cafe is just 300 meters from the SeaLink Ferry Terminal and offers stunning ocean views. We grabbed a table on the outdoor dining area, soaking up the sun and enjoying the refreshing sea breeze. I opted for the fish and chips, eager to taste the local seafood. Elena chose the grilled chicken salad, while Miguel, predictably, went for a gourmet pizza. The food was delicious, the service was friendly, and the views were simply unbeatable. It was the perfect spot to relax and recharge before our afternoon adventures. As we ate, we watched the ferry come and go, a reminder that our time on Kangaroo Island was drawing to a close. The Kiosk is known for its relaxed, coastal vibes, delicious food, and stunning ocean views. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and it's easy to see why. The staff were welcoming, the atmosphere was laid-back, and the food was simply delicious.


Experience fresh local cuisine with stunning coastal views at The Kiosk Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island.

With the afternoon stretching before us, we decided to indulge in a spot of retail therapy at Habitat K I in Kingscote. This charming gift shop and furniture store offers a curated selection of local crafts and unique homewares. I was on the hunt for a special souvenir to remind me of our time on Kangaroo Island, and I wasn't disappointed. The store showcased an array of products that reflected the local culture and artistry. I found a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl, perfect for displaying fruit in our dining room back in Stratford. Elena, meanwhile, picked out a set of locally made soaps, infused with the scent of native Australian botanicals. Miguel, surprisingly, gravitated towards a collection of quirky wooden animal figurines, choosing a kangaroo, of course. Habitat K I is a wonderful representation of the community spirit in Kingscote. It's a place where visitors can connect with the local culture, learn about the artists behind the products, and take a piece of that experience home. The shop's dedication to supporting local artisans means that many of the products you'll find are one-of-a-kind, making them all the more special.


Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Habitat K I in Kingscote, South Australia – the perfect stop for souvenirs and stylish homewares.

For our final dinner on Kangaroo Island, we chose Mooncake Kangaroo Island, drawn in by the promise of Asian food with ocean views. Perched on a hill just outside Penneshaw, Mooncake offers a secluded dining experience with breathtaking ocean views. Award-winning Chef Kate Sumner presents a seasonal menu that celebrates fresh, traditional Asian cuisine. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted, inviting guests on a gastronomic journey where every bite tells a story. We started with the dumplings with laksa-flavored dipping sauce, a delightful fusion of flavors that awakened our taste buds. For our main courses, I opted for the prawn toast, while Elena chose the Thai-style larb. Miguel, ever adventurous, decided to try the chef's special, a Vietnamese noodle soup with local seafood. The food was exquisite, the service was impeccable, and the ocean views were simply stunning. It was the perfect way to end our Kangaroo Island adventure. The restaurant's elegant ambiance, inspired by the simplicity and beauty of Asian culture, provided a relaxing setting to savor the flavors of Vietnam and beyond. It's a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique culinary adventure on Kangaroo Island.


Experience exquisite Asian fusion cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Mooncake Kangaroo Island - a must-visit for food lovers.

As I sit here now, penning these final thoughts, I can't help but feel a tinge of sadness that our time on Kangaroo Island has come to an end. But I also feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the incredible experiences we've shared as a family. We've explored stunning landscapes, encountered unique wildlife, and indulged in delicious local flavors. We've created memories that will last a lifetime. And as we prepare to board the ferry back to the mainland tomorrow, I know that a part of us will always remain on this beautiful island. The warmth of the people, the beauty of the landscape, and the unique charm of Kangaroo Island will forever be etched in our hearts. This trip has not only been a journey across the map but also a journey within ourselves, strengthening our bonds as a family and broadening our perspectives on the world. I am already looking forward to our next adventure, wherever it may take us.