Kangaroo Island is home to some of Australia’s most beautiful and unspoilt beaches and we’ve shared a few of our favourites below.
Avalon Kangaroo Island at Nepean Bay has the added bonus of its own beach just steps from your door. Spend your days collecting shells, taking slow coastal walks, spotting crabs in the shallows, or heading out on a stand-up paddleboard. In the evening, enjoy a beachside fire (outside of fire ban season) and watch the sun set over the bay.
The beach at Nepean Bay is just steps from your door, offering a calm and convenient place to relax during your stay. With shallow, sheltered waters and no real waves, it’s ideal for young children and perfect for collecting shells or spotting crabs along the shoreline. A morning walk along the beach is a quiet highlight, especially at sunrise when the water is still and reflects the light. It’s an easy and peaceful way to begin the day.
A long, wide beach with calm, shallow waters, Emu Bay is perfect for families and safe swimming. It's one of the few beaches in South Australia where you can drive directly onto the sand with a 2WD. Located just a short drive from Kingscote, Emu Bay is popular for its picnic facilities, shell hunting, and occasional dolphin sightings near the shore.
One of the most photogenic beaches on the south coast, Pennington Bay is nestled between dramatic cliffs and often framed by rolling surf. It’s a favourite for photographers, beach walkers, and surfers when conditions are right. While strong waves make it unsuitable for casual swimming, it’s a spectacular place to take in the wild coastal beauty of Kangaroo Island.
Located on the eastern end of the island near American River, Island Beach is known for its tranquil waters and relaxed, holiday vibe. The gently sloping sand and shallow shoreline make it ideal for young children, kayaking, and paddleboarding. It’s a favourite among locals for its serenity and easy access.
Once voted Australia's best beach, Vivonne Bay is a sweeping bay of soft white sand and vivid blue water. While the surf here can be powerful, the eastern end of the beach near the jetty offers more sheltered swimming. The area is also great for fishing and spotting local sea lions basking on the rocks.
Australia's Best Beach 2023 as named by Tourism Australia. This beach is family-friendly and includes a tidal swimming pool ideal for wading and snorkelling. The beach is also known for its unique access through a rock tunnel, leading visitors to a secluded and pristine shoreline.
A stunning, crescent-shaped bay on the island’s north coast, Snelling Beach is known for its clear turquoise waters and golden sand dunes. It’s ideal for swimming and fishing, and often less crowded than other popular spots. The gentle waves make it a great family beach, while the nearby Middle River offers a scenic backdrop for photos and picnics.