Experience

Widely acclaimed as Australia’s Galapagos, Kangaroo Island is home to diverse native wildlife each thriving in its domain and a swag of spectacular natural attractions. Centrally located between the Flinders Chase National Park and Seal Bay Conservation Park, Southern Ocean Lodge is a luxurious base for adventures. A signature itinerary of guided excursions is designed daily and included in the tariff, offering guests the chance to wander amongst sea lions lolling in the sand dunes, discover the famed Remarkable Rocks, walk along the coastal clifftops and more. View and download our experiences fact sheet.

Full day experiences

A range of excellent private itineraries is available from highly-regarded tour operator Exceptional Kangaroo Island. Explore the spectacular landscape and encounter native wildlife from the comfort of a four wheel drive, where guides share their local knowledge as well as food and wine in the wild. Additional charges apply.

1 Kangaroo Island Icons

Kangaroo Island Icons

Discover Kangaroo Island’s must-see sights including the aptly named Remarkable Rocks and the dramatic coastal grotto of Admirals Arch. Visit the resident sea lions at Seal Bay, breaking the journey with an elegant al fresco lunch in the bush.

Exclusively Flinders Chase

Exclusively Flinders Chase

Explore Kangaroo Island’s west end, encountering fur seals at Admirals Arch, the windswept shapes of the Remarkable Rocks and the historically significant Cape du Couedic Lighthouse, a reminder of the region’s tumultuous maritime past.

Southern Ocean Welcome

Southern Ocean Welcome

Become acquainted Kangaroo Island’s wild beauty en route to the lodge, passing by eucalypt forests, pristine beaches and productive farmland. Enjoy a barbecue lunch at a private bush camp and encounter koalas, kangaroos and sea lions along the way.

4 Epicurean Adventure

Epicurean Adventure

Appetites at the ready, sample some of Kangaroo Island’s fine wines, spirits and craft beers, taste pure Ligurian honey and tuck in to freshly shucked oysters and local olives. It’s a deliciously short journey from paddock, plant and sea to plate.

Island Life

Island Life

Catch a glimpse of the island’s unique lifestyle while travelling through native forest and farmland to explore Kangaroo Island’s diverse landscapes. Enjoy a cuppa with homemade cakes and seek out wildlife from koalas, wallabies and sea lions to a variety of birds.

6. Art of Nature

Art of Nature

From award-winning artists to rising stars, Kangaroo Island has emerged as a top arts destination. Wander through some of the island’s creative studios and galleries and on occasion meet the artists who draw inspiration from their beautiful home to create their works.

North Coast Departure

North Coast Departure

Get a final fix of Kangaroo Island exploring unseen sights before saying farewell. Highlights may include a visit to Flinders Chase National Park, discovering the island’s art scene, a private barrel-room tasting at Islander Estate Vineyard or sampling gin at the distillery.

3. Marine Tour

Kangaroo Island Your Way

Customise the day’s itinerary to personal interests; combine a gin blending masterclass and honey tasting with a private art studio visit. Or jump on board a marine tour to swim with wild dolphins before enjoying a warming glass of red wine with a local winemaker. There’s so many options!

Walk the Wild Isle

Remarkable Rocks to Southern Ocean Lodge
WALK  |  13KM  |  4.5 HOURS

Remarkable Rocks to Southern Ocean Lodge

Encounter powerful swells, towering cliffs and sweeping coastal views on this signature hike, commencing from the Remarkable Rocks and walking back to the lodge covering part of the KI Wilderness Trail. Discover more

Cape Younghusband Circuit
WALK  |  9KM  |  3 HOURS RETURN

Cape Younghusband Circuit

Experience the wonder of sheer limestone cliffs and admire the view from Cape Younghusband to the Remarkable Rocks in the distance. Watch out for the osprey hovering above and fur seals frolicking below.

KI Wilderness Trail
WALK  |  61KM TOTAL LENGTH

KI Wilderness Trail

A modified version of the trail is accessible for day walkers who book with a licensed tour operator. The five-day trek offers hikers connection with the post-fire landscape and glimpses of coastal views not previously seen.

Clifftop Circuit
WALK  |  4KM  |  1.5 HOURS RETURN

Clifftop Circuit

Follow the Clifftop Walk and loop inland along the boundary trail and discover dense mallee forests, providing habitat for an array of wildlife.

Clifftop Walk
WALK  |  2KM  |  1 HOUR RETURN

Clifftop Walk

Step from the lodge doorstep and traverse Hanson Bay’s limestone clifftops with pretty coastal heath for a bird’s eye view of the dramatic coastline. Discover more

Bike Loop Track
RIDE | 6KM | 1.5 HOURS RETURN

Bike Loop Track

Explore the surrounding native bushland on the medium grade off-road bike trail, watching out for wallabies along the way! Complimentary adult mountain bikes and equipment provided.

Boardwalk to Viewing Platform
WALK  |  1KM  |  30 MINUTES RETURN

Boardwalk to Viewing Platform

Meander down the boardwalk and enjoy the quiet ambience of the coastal scrub. Emerge to dramatic vistas of the Southern Ocean and wild beaches. Sit a while to drink in the view.

Boardwalk to Lower Viewing Platform
WALK  |  1KM  |  30 MINUTES RETURN

Boardwalk to Lower Viewing Platform

Meander down the boardwalk and enjoy the quiet ambience of the coastal scrub. Emerge to dramatic vistas of the Southern Ocean and wild beaches. Sit a while to drink in the view.

Boardwalk to Hanson Bay Beach
WALK  |  5KM  |  1.5 HOURS RETURN

Boardwalk to Hanson Bay Beach

Step from the boardwalk onto the windswept shore of Hanson Bay. Spot sea birds scuttling along the sand, pass sea caves sprouting fossilised tree trunks and discover the pristine cove of Hanson Bay Beach.

Driveway to Entry Gate
WALK  |  6KM  |  1 HOUR RETURN

Driveway to Entry Gate

An easy stroll following the sealed, undulating road linking the lodge to the main entry gate – also popular for an early morning workout run or post-lunch work off!

Driveway to Hanson Bay Beach
WALK  |  6KM  |  1.5 HOURS RETURN

Driveway to Hanson Bay Beach

Extend the walk from the driveway to the coast to discover Hanson Bay beach, a dazzling strip of fine white sand lapped by gentle aquamarine-hued waves perfect for beachcombing, fishing and swimming.

Southern Ocean Lodge to Hanson Bay Loop
WALK  |  7KM  |  3 HOURS RETURN

Southern Ocean Lodge to Hanson Bay Loop

Walk through dense native forest, watching out for Tammar wallabies, echidnas and birds. Cross the South West River by dinghy and explore protected Hanson Bay Beach – perfect for a refreshing ocean dip!

Kelly Hill to Southern Ocean Lodge
WALK  |  13KM  |  4.5 HOURS

Kelly Hill to Southern Ocean Lodge

Pass through eucalypt woodlands and grazing pastures, glassy lagoons and wetlands rich with birdlife on this fascinating hike. Emerge onto Hanson Bay Beach where aqua clear waters invite a swim.

For those wishing to explore, a series of walking trails commences from the lodge doorstep traversing limestone cliffs, bushland tracks and pristine beach shores. Perfect for the adventurous to undertake at their own pace. Explore the trail map by hovering over the trail markers.

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Information and tips

  • Times indicated for bush walk and bike trails are approximate only and may vary dependant on fitness levels – also allow time for sightseeing and taking photos.
  • Please advise Reception when leaving the property and also upon return to the lodge.
  • Be sure to carry plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen and first aid kid and wear appropriate clothing on walks, ie hat, comfortable walking shoes, warm top and rain jacket.
  • Consider the weather conditions and consult with the lodge team as needed – activities are undertaken at own risk.
  • See the lodge team for advice on where to ride the mountain bikes. Helmets are compulsory.
  • For a dip in the Southern Ocean, head down to Hanson Bay Beach.
  • Distance Conversion: 1 kilometre = 0.62 miles
Sample itineraries

Southern Ocean Lodge offers a complete Kangaroo Island experience. Guests are presented with a personalised itinerary upon arrival including the lodge’s signature experiences.

Southern Ocean Lodge offers a complete Kangaroo Island experience, blending pristine nature, contemporary surrounds and superb fine dining, as well as a tailored itinerary of exhilarating experiences to create a very real sense of place. Guests are presented with a personalised itinerary on arrival including the lodge’s signature experiences, designed to explore the must-see sights of ‘Australia’s Galapagos’ and led by passionate guides for an unforgettable encounter.

  • Two Night Baillie Escape

    The following represents an indicative experience over a two night stay and is based on arriving on Kangaroo Island via the morning flight (QF2142) and departing on the afternoon flight (QF2145) with Qantaslink. Many factors influence the delivered itinerary, including flight arrival and departure times, prebooked activities, the weather and the seasons. Any special arrangements made in advance, or once at the lodge, will be worked into your itinerary to ensure the very best experience of both lodge and island. Download itinerary here.

    Day 1 - Welcome

    Day 1 Welcome

    Arrive on Kangaroo Island and travel to the lodge. Enjoy signature welcome drinks and settle in with lunch in the lodge restaurant overlooking the vast panorama of Hanson Bay.

    Kelly Hill Caves_590x380px

    Day 1 Afternoon

    Step back in time and discover a labyrinth of sinkholes and caverns in the subterranean Kelly Hill Caves with guided commentary and dynamic lightshow.

     

    Day 1 - Night-2

    Day 1 Evening

    Dine for dinner in the lodge restaurant and enjoy a showcase of local produce paired with South Australian wines to create a real taste of Kangaroo Island.

    Day 2 - Morning

    Day 2 Morning

    Explore the island’s famed natural and maritime landmarks on the Wonders of Kangaroo Island expedition. Return to the lodge for lunch.

    Koalas and Kangas_590x380px

    Day 2 Late Afternoon

    Visit Hanson Bay Sanctuary, a mecca for native wildlife, and later soak up the history of the early settlers at Grassdale on the Koalas and Kangas experience.

    Day 2 - Evening

    Day 2 Evening

    By night the focus in the lodge restaurant turns inwards from the view to the extraordinary flavours on the evening’s four-course menu.

    Day 2 - Afternoon

    Day 3 Morning

    After breakfast, journey to Seal Bay Conservation Park to meet the ‘locals’ on the Seal Bay Safari encounter. A guided walk among the colony of sea lions is just one of Kangaroo Island’s many privileges.

    Day 3 - Farewell-2

    Day 3 Farewell

    Return to the lodge for lunch and an opportunity to take final pictures before departure. Safe travels onwards!

     

  • Three Night Classic SOL

    The following represents an indicative experience over three nights. Many factors influence the itinerary, including, flight arrival and departure times, pre-booked activities, the weather and the seasons. Any special arrangements made in advance, or once at the lodge, will be worked into your itinerary to ensure the very best experience of both lodge and island. Download itinerary here.

    Day 1 - Welcome

    Day 1 Welcome

    Arrive on Kangaroo Island and journey to the lodge. Enjoy signature welcome drinks and settle into the surrounds with lunch in the lodge restaurant.

    Coastal Clifftop Walk_590x380px

    Day 1 Afternoon

    Head off on the guided Coastal Clifftop Walk. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Southern swell while learning about the diverse flora and fauna and resilience of the Australian bush.

    Day 1 - Night

    Day 1 Evening

    Dine in the ambience of the restaurant savouring a four-course menu featuring the region’s finest produce, paired with a selection of local and regional wines.

    Day 2 - Morning-2

    Day 2 Morning

    Discover spectacular wildlife, breathtaking landscapes and fascinating maritime heritage on the Wonders of Kangaroo Island expedition. Return to the lodge for lunch.

    Koalas and Kangas_590x380px

    Day 2 Late Afternoon

    Meet Koalas and Kangas in their own neighbourhood at the Hanson Bay Sanctuary and later, soak up the history of the early settlers at Grassdale with a drink from the pop-up bush bar.

    Day 2 - Evening-3

    Day 2 Evening

    Share the day’s experiences over sunset drinks in the Great Room. A daily-changing dinner menu champions local and regional ingredients, carefully matched with local wines.

    Day 3 - Afternoon

    Day 3 Morning

    It’s time for a safari! A morning encounter with the resident colony of Australian sea lions at Seal Bay offers an experience reminiscent of the Galapagos.

    Kelly Hill Caves_590x380px

    Day 3 Afternoon

    Step back in time and discover a labyrinth of sinkholes and caverns in the subterranean Kelly Hill Caves with guided commentary and dynamic lightshow.

    A Taste of SA_590x380px

    Day 3 Evening

    A Taste of SA invites guests to explore the diversity of South Australia’s wines during a guided sampling session in the cellar. Afterwards, dine for dinner in the lodge restaurant.

    Day 4 - Morning

    Day 4 Morning

    Rise early for a self-guided walk or succumb to the comfort of Baillie Bed and watch the sunrise from beneath the covers.

    Day 4 - Farewell

    Day 4 Farewell

    Dine for breakfast in the restaurant, before bidding farewell… Until next time.

  • Four Night Expedition KI

    The following represents an indicative experience over four nights. Many factors influence the itinerary, including flight arrival and departure times, pre-booked activities, the weather and the seasons. Any special arrangements made in advance, or once at the lodge, will be worked into your itinerary to ensure the very best experience of both lodge and island. Download itinerary here.

    Day 1 - Welcome

    Day 1 Welcome

    Arrive on Kangaroo Island and journey to Southern Ocean Lodge on the remote south coast. Settle into the surrounds with welcome drinks and lunch in the restaurant.

    Coastal Clifftop Walk_590x380px

    Day 1 Afternoon

    Get your bearings on the Coastal Clifftop Walk and realise Antarctica is next stop on the horizon. Enroute, the lodge guide shares insights into the native ecology.

    Day 1 - Night-2

    Day 1 Evening

    Dine for dinner in the restaurant and savour a showcase of local and regional produce paired with South Australian wines to create a real taste of Kangaroo Island.

    Day 2 - Morning

    Day 2 Morning

    Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before travelling into Flinders Chase National Park on the must-do Wonders of Kangaroo Island expedition.

    Day 2 - Afternoon (1)

    Day 2 Afternoon

    Return to the lodge for lunch or opt to walk back via the 13-kilometre Signature Remarkable Hike traversing the coastline. Additional charges apply.

    A Taste of SA_590x380px

    Day 2 Evening

    Join fellow guests in the cellar for an optional guided wine tasting session exploring South Australia’s diverse wine regions. Later, enjoy dinner in the lodge restaurant.

    Day 3 - Afternoon

    Day 3 Morning

    Journey to Seal Bay Conservation Park to meet the ‘locals’ on the Seal Bay Safari. A guided walk among the sea lion colony is just one of Kangaroo Island’s many privileges.

    Koalas and Kangas_590x380px

    Day 3 Late Afternoon

    Visit Hanson Bay Sanctuary, a mecca for native wildlife, and soak up the history of the early settlers at Grassdale on the Koalas and Kangas experience.

    Day 2 - Evening

    Day 3 Evening

    Return for dinner in the restaurant. The team of chefs work closely with local producers to source singingly fresh ingredients for the daily changing menu.

    Day 4 - Afternoon

    Day 4 Morning

    Take time out to relax with a treatment in the Southern Spa. Top or tail the visit with a dip in the hot and cold plunge pools on the terrace. Additional charges apply

     

    Kelly Hill Caves_590x380px

    Day 4 Afternoon

    Step back in time and discover a labyrinth of sinkholes and caverns in the subterranean Kelly Hill Caves with guided commentary and dynamic lightshow.

    Day 4 - Evening

    Day 4 Evening

    Wine lovers can opt to join A Taste of SA in the cellar. Dinner showcases a bounty of local produce from freshly shucked oysters to free range lamb and just-caught fish.

    Day 5 - Morning

    Day 5 Morning

    Stay in bed for a well-earned rest and witness the morning unfold along the sweep of coast. Brew a cuppa to savour the last moments of the stay.

    Day 5 - Farewell

    Day 5 Farewell

    Enjoy breakfast a final time in the lodge restaurant and bags all packed, it’s onto your next port. Safe travels!

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Destination

A destination for all seasons

A year-round destination, Kangaroo Island has a climate as dynamic as its scenery – from season to season the island yields fresh perspectives.

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Lodge

Our commitment to the environment

A dynamic environmental management plan featuring cutting edge technologies steers lodge operations and ultimately enhances each guest's experience.

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Destination

How do I get there?

Kangaroo Island sits a mere 15km from the shores of mainland South Australia. Transport options to and from Kangaroo Island are many and varied for domestic and international travellers.

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