South Australia: 6 places to see, from Cape Jervis Ferry to
Explore Kangaroo Island, South Australia's raw and untamed destination featuring unique wildlife encounters. This remote island accessible by ferry from Cape Jervis offers stunning coastal views, off-grid accommodations, and close encounters with native animals including kangaroos, koalas, and seals across its expansive open roads.
- Distance
- 3148.3 km
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Why Visit South Australia
- End
- Seal Bay Sanctuary Zone
- Stops
- 6
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Why Visit South Australia — Mediterranean climate region renowned for world-class wineries, pristine beaches, and unique wildlife found nowhere else on Earth.
- Cape Jervis Ferry — Maritime gateway connecting South Australia's mainland to Kangaroo Island, offering scenic coastal views and wildlife observation opportunities.
- Big Seven Animals — Collection of large sculptural representations showcasing South Australia's iconic fauna including kangaroos, koalas, and native marine species.
- Stokes Bay Beach — Scenic beach on Kangaroo Island accessible through a tunnel, featuring pristine blue waters and white sand despite strong wind conditions.
- Emu Bay Beach — Sandy coastal beach on Kangaroo Island featuring calm turquoise waters, abundant birdlife, and sheltered swimming conditions year-round.
- Seal Bay Sanctuary Zone — Protected seal sanctuary on Kangaroo Island opening at 9 a.m., dedicated to viewing and observing seal populations in their natural environment.
Useful for your trip
- Transport
- Ferry from Cape Jervis to Kangaroo Island costs 264 AUD one way
- Avoid
- Drive carefully on island roads due to wildlife; watch for kangaroos, koalas, and other animals to avoid hitting them
- Timing
- Seal Bay opens at 9:00 AM; entry fee is 20 AUD per person; guided tour is 42 AUD per person
- Tip
- Swimming with seals activity available; bring wetsuit. Dolphins may be spotted but not guaranteed for swimming
- Where to stay
- Off-grid cabins available with amenities like outdoor kitchens, hot tubs, and ocean views; book in advance on Expedia
- Avoid
- Strong rip currents and ferocious winds common on beaches; Stokes Bay Beach requires climbing through a tunnel to reach it
- Timing
- Expect cold weather in Australian summer (around 14°C feeling like 10°C); bring warm layers and jeans for beach visits
- Tip
- Unique kangaroo subspecies found on island are smaller, stockier, and darker than mainland kangaroos; best viewed early morning
- Food
- Pick up groceries before heading to remote off-grid cabins as restaurants are not available in isolated areas
- Tip
- Local guides recommended for spotting wild koalas; they eat only specific eucalyptus species and are easier to find with expert help
- Avoid
- Great white sharks present in waters around Seal Bay area; do not swim in certain designated areas
Video on this route
YOU should visit South Australia for this ONE reason