Where to Stay

An extensive range of accommodations exists on the island with everything from campgrounds and hostels to B&Bs and high end hotels.

Aurora Ozone (The Foreshore, Kingscote, (08) 8553 2011, website) is conveniently located in Kingscote. The hotel has two buildings - the new one being fancier and more expensive. Rates start at around $200 AUD in high season.

KI Seafront Resort (49 North Terrace, Penneshaw, (08) 8553 1028, website) is a four-star hotel with 25 rooms and cottages suitable for families. At night, you are likely to see little penguins returning from the sea if you walk along the hotel's beach. Ocean view rooms are $220 AUD in high season but two-night packages, including breakfast, range from $320 AUD - $410 AUD, some including penguin tours. The hotel also has a "stay 3 nights, get the 4^th free" package.

Stranraer Homestead in MacGillivray (08) 8553 8235, website), run by Lyn and Graham Wheaton, is situated in a restored house dating back to 1920. The setting is bucolic with the family also raising lamb and grain on their 1290 hectares. Three rooms are available, each with a working fireplace. $280 AUD per night including breakfast.

Nestled in 7 acres of coastal vegetation, Kangaroo Island Lodge (American River, 08 1800 355 581, website) is a good hideaway with affordable rooms - standard rooms start at $159 AUD per night, including breakfast and tax, two-night minimum. Packages including ferry connections from the mainland for 2 adults plus car start at $337 per person for 2 nights.

Kangaroo Island Wilderness Retreat (South Coast Road, Flinders Chase via Kingscote, (08) 8 8559 7275, website) is located adjacent to the island's most popular destination, Flinders Chase National Park. Various levels of accommodation are available, starting with 3-star level lodge rooms at about $160 AUS ($180 in high season). Lodge apartments are $210 AUS ($250 AUS in high season). Rates include tax.