Top things to do on Kangaroo Island for retirees
There are so many things to do on Kangaroo Island that you will want to stay for weeks (or forever, as Emu Bay Holiday Homes’ owners did).
The stunning island off the South Australian coast is host to a huge array of native wildlife as well as some of the most pristine wilderness in the world. But don’t think that you will be roughing it in the wilderness. There are things to do on Kangaroo Island for all ages and all levels of mobility.
The island is ideal for retirees as it is quiet during the week, absolutely beautiful to visit and offers all the creature comforts of home.
Things to do on Kangaroo Island
- Tours: There are a number of bus tours that can take you to see the sights on the island. They are most days and many have wheelchair accessible options. Whatever it is you hope to see on the island, there is likely to be a bus, coach or private tour to take you there and tour guides to regale you with stories and information about the island.
- Wineries and Distilleries: Despite its relatively small size, Kangaroo Island is home to more than half a dozen wineries. Every one of them is set in beautiful countryside and many also offer good food along with wine tasting. Anyone with even a passing interest in fine wine shouldn’t miss out on a tasting or two during their stay on the Island.
- Farms: Kangaroo Island has long been a successful farming location and some farms are open to the public. Whether it’s a visit to a live bee keeping experience at the honey farm for some unique local honey, a stop at a beautiful lavender plantation, shearing and sheep dog farm – you can’t miss the working farms on Kangaroo Island.
- Galleries: With its amazing natural beauty, it is no surprise that many artists are drawn to Kangaroo Island. There are a number of galleries spread across the island with shifting exhibitions and resident artists.In Kingscote, make sure to visit Fine Art Kangaroo Island for award winning artwork inspired by the island’s natural beauty, and Kangaroo Island Gallery for a dash of colour and a focus on jewelry. Just outside of Kingscote is Shep’s Studio, a gallery featuring an array of artistic styles as well as a playground for the kids.A short trip from Penneshaw on the beautiful Baudin Beach is the Baudin Beach Artworks Gallery, a bright little artists collective that also runs workshops.For something a little different, head to the centre of the island to check out The Australian Red Gum Gallery. Local character Jonny Gloyne loves to have a yarn with visitors and show off his amazing wood turning skills. Jonny makes pens, bowls, pepper grinders and all sorts of wooden pieces right before your eyes. Request a piece and you can watch it being made before you buy it to take home.
- Dining: Being on an island doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy delicious food. The island’s capital Kingscote and the ferry destination Penneshaw are both full of amazing cafes and restaurants in stunning locations perfect for a nice meal to while away a pleasant afternoon.A quick glance at tripadviser shows a surprisingly wide selection of amazing dining options spread right across the island. From fish and chips to pizza, to wineries and fine dining, Kangaroo Island has an eatery to suit all tastes.And for those staying a little further away from the hubs there is always the option to stock up at the IGA In Penneshaw or Drakes in Kingscote and make some delicacies yourself in self-contained accommodation. All sites at Emu Bay Holiday Homes have access to BBQs as well as fully equipped kitchens so you can cook up a storm every night. We also have an in-house catering service if you want to have a quiet night without cooking.
- Beachfront: Other than its bushland, Kangaroo Island’s beaches are one of its major drawcards and one of everyone’s favourite things to do on Kangaroo Island. Stunning beaches like Emu Bay are the perfect place to have a dip, do a spot of fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the sun.
With all of these amazing things to do on Kangaroo Island you may want to think about making your stay longer than you had planned. The best place to spend an extended stay on Kangaroo Island is without doubt Emu Bay Holiday Homes. Our fully equipped, self-contained houses, cabins, cottages, and apartments offer the ideal accommodation for retirees who want to explore all the wonders of the amazing southern island.