American River
Kangaroo Island's most protected harbour.

Known locally as ‘The River’, Kangaroo Island’s American River region sits on the western shore of Eastern Cove and also includes the Pelican Lagoon. The region is named after American sealers that stayed on this part of the island for four months in 1803 and there is a memorial plaque in the main town to commemorate this.

American River at Kangaroo Island

The main village – American River – sits on a hillside surrounded by bush land and boasting spectacular views of the cove and mainland Australia. The channel houses Kangaroo Island’s most protected harbour where numerous yachts, sailboats and fishing boats dock.

The outer bay offers some superb sailing and fishing, while the 2.5 mile long Island Beach is a great place for swimming and sunbaking.

The inner bay, also known as Pelican Lagoon, is a protected Aquatic Reserve thanks to its natural fish nursery. It is here where visitors will find the Pelican Lagoon Conservation Park, a 397 hectare nature reserve just south of the region’s main town.

The park is spread across the island and includes five small inlets that provide habitat for woodland and wetland birds.

American River also has a strong oyster industry and oysters are available seasonally in restaurants along the harbour and in the town itself.

There are also plenty of barbie and picnic areas that make it possible for visitors to buy their own fresh fish and oysters and cook them as they like.

Where to stay at American River

American River has a number of self-contained establishments ranging from seaside holiday homes to bushland cottages – a perfect spot to explore Kangaroo Island.

The town is centrally located on the east of the island. Discover more great places to stay on Kangaroo Island and where to stay in Adelaide.

Map of Kangaroo Island

Explore more with our Kangaroo Island map and find your way around Australia’s third-largest island. Zoom in on the map to discover more.

Kangaroo Island Experiences

There are plenty of things to experience on Kangaroo Island. Crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming, diving, kayaking and surfing while, on land, food safaris, bushwalks and walking tours are some of the best in Australia.

More great Australian travel destinations
About 'Kangaroo Island Australia'

Kangaroo Island Australia is a 'Web Magazine' website that is dedicated to all things related to Kangaroo Island. We are passionate about Australia's great southern island, its vast marine and wildlife, its white sandy beaches, its turquiose waters and the unforgetable experiences that are waiting for all who visit. Our aim is to discuss Kangaroo Island, its history, its environment, its wildlife and its spectacular destinations. We hope that this website will inspire all who visit, just as much as Kangaroo Island has inspired us.

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