22 February 2023
5 mins Read
Kangaroo Island (KI) lies just 13 kilometres off the South Australian coast, yet feels like it’s a million miles away. That, along with the incredible luxury accommodation on Kangaroo Island, and a trip here is a dream.
The irresistible combination of world-class wineries, wildlife, and a cluster of great places to eat and drink has made KI a must-visit destination for decades. And while you can do a one-day tour with SeaLink, those who stay on the island are rewarded with more time to take in the spellbinding scenery and tick off your list of things to do.
Are you even staying on Kangaroo Island if you don’t have a bathtub with a view? Oceanview Eco Villas does what it says on the tin with picture windows framing the ocean views from almost every room, including the bathroom. Located 50 metres from the ragged red cliffs of Redbanks, which protrude from the beach like bad teeth, the off-grid villas offer a five-star experience where the only passing traffic is from kangaroos.
It doesn’t get more luxurious than this.
The view from the Cliff House, perched like an eyrie overlooking the curve of Snelling’s Beach, is everything. After a day spent enjoying superlative food and wine, you can bed down at this architect-designed house on a remote section of KI’s sun-soaked north coast. The Cliff House is a favourite with travellers due to its cliff-edge jacuzzi and cushioned sunken pit, not to mention those unobstructed views of sea and sky.
Cliff House is perched overlooking the curve of Snelling’s Beach.
Step into the Hamilton House or Dune House and you will feel like you’ve entered a portal that leads to a Pinterest interiors page. The exclusive lodges overlooking Emu Bay both offer melodramatic ocean views and stylish entertaining areas. Both properties also appeal to intrepid adventurers as well as those seeking solitude. Make the most of being on island time by arranging for an in-house chef.
Enter the Pinterest-worthy interiors.
For an island that measures just 145 kilometres long and between 900 metres and 54 kilometres wide, Kangaroo Island packs in a lot. You will be right in position to enjoy all KI has to offer with a stay in one of two Stowaway pods, located on a working farm five minutes away from Stokes Bay. A double-sided wood fire, freestanding bath and sauna are also worthy diversions.
Take in the beauty of KI from a Stowaway pod.
Book a stay at Sea Dragon Lodge & Villas if it’s the local wildlife you’re interested in. While the eco villas are not over-the-top extravagant, the luxury on offer is down to those expansive ocean views and proximity to Pink Bay Beach. Sit on the deck, glass of pinot noir in hand, and try and spot the island’s namesake as well as a supporting cast of possums, wallabies and dolphins.
The majestic views of Sea Dragon from above.
One Kangaroo Island has a freestanding outdoor tub that is made for wallowing in while looking for resident wildlife. Top up the bath with hot water until twilight falls and then sink into the sofa around the gas fireplace while your private chef prepares your dinner. This luxurious property on the north-east coast of Kangaroo Island is just metres away from Brown’s Beach.
One Kangaroo Island is just metres from Browns Beach.
Follow Cape du Couedic Road, the ribbon of asphalt that runs toward Admiral’s Arch, to get the obligatory Instagram snaps and then do a hit-and-run of the island’s key attractions so you can isolate in style at The Sky House. The rammed-earth architecture makes this property feel like it fell from the sky, with more of a Moroccan vibe than a KI rhythm. It’s low-fi luxury and one of the best Airbnbs on Kangaroo Island.
The villa is located on the highest point of the property.
Meeting the ‘locals’ when you’re staying at Ecopia Retreat translates to communing with the colony of sea lions at nearby Seal Bay Conservation Park. The experience is so intrinsic to a stay here that a guided tour to see the endangered animals is included when you book a stay of three nights or more. The two contemporary eco villas include floor-to-ceiling windows and a wood fireplace.
Wildlife is intrinsic to a stay at Ecopia Retreat.
Copperstone KI offers front-row seats to the action in Emu Bay, one of the most coveted spots on the north coast of Kangaroo Island. The four-bedroom architecturally designed beach house blends seamlessly into the landscape and is designed with absolute privacy in mind, which comes in handy when you’re drinking in the breathtaking panorama from the bath.
Unassuming from the outside, delightful on the inside.
If you’re looking for the best places to camp on Kangaroo Island, why not do so in comfort with Wandering Souls, who invite you to choose your tent, depending on your tribe and vibe. The company can pitch your luxury bell tent according to your whim and where you’d rather be and style it to suit. Stay on brand and order the Matilda, an Australian luxe tent fitted out with stylish throws and 1000-thread count sheets.
Stay in comfort with Wandering Souls.
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