Established as a South Australian Conservation Park in 2002, the almost 6400-hectare area park reaches from Nobby Islet to Cape Gantheaume and includes Bales Beach. It has been protected as a protected area for sea lions since 1954.
Australian sea lions (Neophoca cinereal) are unique to South Australia and Western Australia. They are an endangered species with a total population of around 14,700. Seal Bay is the third largest colony of this magnificent, wild creature and is home to around 1000 animals.
Since the first organised tours were conducted in 1955, visitor numbers to Seal Bay have steadily increased, and facilities at the park have followed suit, including an interactive Visitor Centre which is a hub for research and conservation. It is the only place in the world where visitors can see Australian sea lions (safely!) at close quarters, walking on the beach as pups play, watching as enormous bulls fight for supremacy and resting mothers suckle their young.
In the company of a Southern Ocean Lodge guide, guests can wander into the heart of the sea lion colony via a dedicated boardwalk through the sand dunes and along the shores of the beach for an exclusive tour with these wild animals. Learn about their unique breeding cycle and the ongoing research programs implemented on site. It’s just one of the many privileges of a visit to Kangaroo Island.
This half day experience is a spectacular introduction to Kangaroo Island’s wildlife and stunning coastal landscapes and takes full advantage of the lodge’s central location.
Soak up the history of the early island settlers at the nearby historic property Grassdale. Enjoy al fresco sunset drinks and canapes and watch as local wildlife including shy-by-day kangaroos and wallabies venture out to graze.
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Take a scenic walk starting right on the lodge’s doorstep and venture along the plunging limestone cliffs of Hanson Bay. Look out across the ocean and realise Antarctica is next stop on the horizon.
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One of the most essential experiences of Kangaroo Island is the half day guided tour of the magnificent Flinders Chase National Park, a wild and rugged wilderness boasting an array of remarkable attractions.
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