The relatively small Kangaroo Island contains a large percentage of accommodation for its more than 140,000 annual visitors to stay during their holidays. The secluded Southern Ocean Lodge (pictured below) overlooking the remote Hanson Bay is one of the island’s only true luxury hotels, complete with a spa retreat and stunning southern ocean views.
Another clifftop establishment, the recently renovated Penneshaw Hotel, describes itself as the world’s only hotel where guests can see Australia as they enjoy a beer.
The outdoor dining area of this century-old hotel overlooks the Backstairs Passage.
Most other Kangaroo Island accommodation, like the many bed and breakfasts, are far more modest but no less unforgettable.
Where to stay on Kangaroo Island
The island boasts a large number of self-contained establishments ranging from seaside holiday homes to bushland cottages in the heart of the wilderness. The former lighthouse keepers’ cottages at some Kangaroo Island lighthouses have now become popular holiday homes.
Discover more great places to stay on Kangaroo Island below.
From $67
From $116
From $131
From $134
From $150
From $155
From $205
From $220
From $220
From $226
From $546
From $78
From $79
From $80
From $80
From $93
From $100
From $101
From $107
From $115
From $119
From $122
From $131
From $135
From $145
From $148
From $165
From $180
From $188
From $233
From $68
From $68
From $144
From $99
From $201
Accommodation on the Island
Visitors to Kangaroo Island can also stay at an isolated wilderness retreat or a sheep and cattle farm at Flinders Chase National Park. The working Flinders Chase Farm includes an en-suite lodge, cabins, and hostel for budget backpackers.
Another affordable backpackers’ hostel is located just a three minute walk from a penguin colony in Kingscote, which also contains the island’s largest selection of family hotels and motels.
Bush camping may not be allowed on Kangaroo Island, but visitors are welcome to spend their nights beneath the stars at the recently refurbished American River and Vivonne Bay campgrounds.
Both of these council run campgrounds contain unpowered and powered sites, while a more rustic Browns Beach campground has only unpowered sites.