A hop off the South Australian coast and graced with sweeping horizons of pristine wilderness, Kangaroo Island is Australia’s third largest island, spanning 155km long by 55km wide. More than one third of 'KI' (as the locals call it), is declared as conservation sanctuary or national park and visitors come face-to-face with prolific wildlife such as fur seals, koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, sea lions, ospreys and echidnas, roaming freely in the ‘zoo without fences’. An inspiringly wild landscape is also home to artists, providores and producers, and is rich in maritime tales of the untamed Southern Ocean.
Set overlooking Hanson Bay on the island’s south-west coast, Southern Ocean Lodge is located nearby to the island’s unique natural attractions. Guests step out from the luxury basecamp to join a series of signature excursions allowing a first-hand encounter of Australia’s Galapagos. Experiences are shared with small groups of fellow guests, hosted by naturalist guides and scheduled during off-peak times for an exclusive safari feel.
Seasons of Kangaroo Island
A destination with year-round appeal, Kangaroo Island yields fresh perspectives from season to season. A Mediterranean-style climate produces warm summers perfect for dips in the cool Southern Ocean and temperate winters when the wildlife is at its most active. Daytime temperatures range from 25–35°C in summer to 14–18°C in winter.
Getting there
Kangaroo Island sits a mere 15km from the shores of mainland South Australia. QantasLink operates 40-minute flights connecting Adelaide to Kingscote (Kangaroo Island Airport) on most days. Southern Ocean Lodge is located 50 minutes’ drive from the airport and offers complimentary shared transfers meeting scheduled flights. Guests can also opt to hire a car at Kingscote. SeaLink operates ferry transfers between the mainland and Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island, located 90-minutes from the lodge via self-drive journey.
What to bring
Reflecting the easy-going Australian way, dress is smart casual at Southern Ocean Lodge. It’s a relaxed dinner dress code, with no jacket required. Comfortable walking shoes, a warm top and weather-proof jacket are recommended year-round. In the cooler months, it’s best to pack versatile clothing that can be layered. A hat and sunscreen are every-day essentials.
(September–November) 18–23°C
Experiences
Kangaroo Island’s vast landscape begs to be explored. A tailor-made itinerary of signature guided adventures offers guests a first-hand encounter of abundant wildlife roaming freely in its natural environment. Wander amongst sea lions lolling in the dunes at Seal Bay, meet koalas and kangaroos in their own neighbourhood and discover the magic of Kelly Hill Caves. There’s an expedition into Flinders Chase National Park to discover its natural wonders, a guided walk along the coastal clifftops and a deep dive into South Australia’s fine wines with an evening sampling session in the cellar.
An additional menu of bespoke experiences offers the chance to tailor an itinerary around special interests. Hike the wild isle from Remarkable Rocks back to the lodge, visit island providores and meet producers at the source, cuddle a koala or experience the sights and sounds of Kangaroo Island after dark. Activities operate on a limited share basis for an exclusive safari feel (additional charges apply). A range of excellent full day private charters is also available. Enquire with the Baillie Lodges team for bookings and further information.
Signature Experiences
Southern Spa
Bespoke Experiences
» Island Adventures
» Wildlife Discovery
Self-guided Walks
Private Experiences
Land Transfers
Signature Experiences
Experience Kangaroo Island’s must-see sights in style on the lodge’s signature tours. These excursions are included in the tariff and provided on an intimate shared basis with fellow guests at scheduled times. Private experiences can generally be arranged at additional cost subject to availability.
Wonders of Kangaroo Island
Discover Kangaroo Island’s spectacular wildlife, stunning landscapes and maritime heritage on a west-end wilderness expedition. Journey into Flinders Chase National Park to discover the aptly named Remarkable Rocks, visit historic Cape du Couedic Lighthouse and spy on the resident fur seal colony at Admirals Arch, a magnificent coastal grotto.
Seal Bay Safari
Seal Bay Conservation Park is home to Australia’s third largest colony of Australian sea lions. Join the lodge guide on the shores of the Southern Ocean for a walk among these endangered animals (a true KI privilege) while learning about their unique breeding cycle and the ongoing research programs implemented on site.
Coastal Clifftop Walk
Step out from the lodge doorstep for a guided walk traversing the limestone cliffs of Hanson Bay. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Southern Ocean swell while learning about the diverse and resilient coastal ecology. Keep an eye out for an osprey soaring overhead or dolphins frolicking below.
This walk is offered on a guided basis every second day; may also be undertaken on a self-guided basis at any time of day.
Koalas and Kangas
Visit the nearby Hanson Bay Sanctuary, a mecca for furry and feathered native wildlife. Wander among the eucalypts and spot koalas snoozing in the treetops. Later, soak up the history of the early settlers at Grassdale and sip South Australian beverages and nibble on snacks as shy-by-day kangaroos venture out to graze.
Duration 4 hours
Duration 2.5 hours
Duration 1.5 hours
Duration 2.5 hours
Kelly Hill Caves
Step back in time and discover a labyrinth of sinkholes and caverns in the subterranean Kelly Hill Caves, formed around two million years ago. Join a guided tour and learn about the site’s geological history while enjoying a dynamic lightshow. Marvel at the illuminated stalactites, helictites and more.
This experience joins a public tour.
A Taste of SA
After a day of adventures, a discovery of a new kind awaits with an optional wine tasting session highlighting the diversity of South Australia’s wines. Join fellow guests in the cellar for a guided sampling with a different region explored every night from the Barossa and McLaren Vale to the Clare and the Coonawarra.
Signature experiences on a private basis
The following signature experiences may be undertaken on a private basis, ensuring an experience of Kangaroo Island in the exclusive company of immediate fellow travellers. Bookings are subject to availability and required in advance. Maximum 10 guests.
Signature experience
Wonders of KI
Seal Bay Safari
Tariff for 1–6 guests
Additional guest
Duration 1.5 hours
Coastal Clifftop Walk $200
Koalas and Kangas
$600 $50
Duration 45 minutes
How to book
Please call +61 2 9918 4355 during business hours: Monday–Friday 8am–6pm and Saturday 8.30am–4.30pm (AEST).
Southern Spa
Stepping into the wilderness via a glass-walled aerobridge from the main lodge, guests reach the Southern Spa, a private sanctuary sitting low amongst the coastal heath with views to a panorama of native bushland framed by wide open skies.
Spa treatments
A menu of signature of treatments features the Australian-made alkeme spa care range, complemented with Kangaroo Island’s own natural beauty products. Luxuriate in the three-hour alkeme Dreaming, a complete face and body treatment, or unwind with a honey and almond wrap harnessing the nourishing qualities of the world’s only pure strain of Ligurian honey.
Spa facilities
The Southern Spa features three treatment rooms and a chill lounge, while an intimate gymnasium offers guests a reinvigorating retreat. Outside, a sauna and hot and cold plunge pools front the wilderness offering a refreshing hop between temperatures while loungers line the terrace, perfect for soaking in the moment.
How to book Reservations are recommended in advance. Browse the range of Southern Spa treatments and submit your booking online, view a printable menu or contact the lodge on +61 8 8559 7347 or info@southernoceanlodge.com.au
Bespoke Experiences
Bespoke experience rates valid 1 April 2024 – 31 March 2025
All rates quoted in Australian Dollars and inclusive of 10% GST
Southern Ocean Lodge offers a range of off the beaten track options for guests looking to explore more or perhaps pursue a special interest. Activities operate on a private basis for an exclusive safari feel. Bookings are subject to availability and are required in advance. Published cancellation terms apply. Please enquire for rates and more information.
Island Adventures
Whether you'd prefer to lace up your hiking boots for a spectacular guided journey along the coastal clifftops or follow a different sort of trail to explore KI's thriving community of producers and growers, there's so much waiting to discover.
Signature Remarkable Hike
Encounter the Southern Ocean's powerful swells, towering limestone cliffs and sweeping coastal views on this epic island walk. A minimum four-hour journey covering some thirteen kilometres, the guided trek commences at the Remarkable Rocks all the way to Cape Younghusband before turning inland enroute to the lodge.
The hike operates in combination with the Wonders of KI tour; guests return to the lodge on foot, enjoying a packed lunch along the way.
KI Producers Trail
Kangaroo Island is renowned for its distinguished community of producers and growers. A hop along the Cygnet River artisan hub connects guests straight to the source; there’s cellar door wine tastings and a gin distillery to explore, a buzzing honey-making factory and a fine merino wool store.
Beach Fishing
There's next to no-one around on Kangaroo Island's beaches and the fish-rich waters of the Southern Ocean yield an abundance of seafood including the famed King George Whiting. Cast off from the shore of Hanson Bay Beach keeping an eye out for the local pod of dolphins and maybe catch dinner!
How to book
Please call +61 2 9918 4355 during business hours: Monday–Friday 8am–6pm and Saturday 8.30am–4.30pm (AEST) or email reserve@ baillielodges.com.au
Tariff
$600 for 1-4 guests
Capacity
Maximum 4 guests
Grade
Moderate to difficult
Duration 4.5 hours
Tariff
$1,100 for 1-4 guests
Capacity
Maximum 4 guests
Duration
Half day
Tariff
$240 for 1-2 guests
$120 per additional guest
Capacity
Maximum 6 guests
Duration 2 hours
Wildlife Discovery
Widely acclaimed as Australia’s Galapagos, Kangaroo Island is home to an abundance of native wildlife. Boasting twenty-one national or conservation parks, visitors encounter prolific bird and animal species such as koalas, wallabies, fur seals, sea lions, echidnas and ospreys.
Nocturnal Explorer
Venture to Hanson Bay Sanctuary to experience a very different kind of nightlife - the sights and sounds of Kangaroo Island after dark. Spot koalas at their most active and encounter kangaroos, wallabies and possums up close. Learn about their behaviours whilst searching for other nightloving wildlife including owls, bats and echidnas. Tour operates on a shared basis with fellow guests.
KI Wildlife Park
Set in the island’s heartland, the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park is home to more than 150 native Australian species and over 600 animals. Roam the park for an up-close encounter with wallabies, kangaroos, dingos, snakes, little penguins and more. The bucket list highlight: cuddling a koala!
The KI Wildlife Park is open to the general public. A three-hour private tour hosted by a park guide offers access to even more animals. See tariff.
Birds of Prey
Marvel at the spectacular beauty of birds of prey and their natural hunting abilities during a private free-flight presentation at Kangaroo Island's Raptor Domain. Meet up to six bird species including eagles, owls, hawks and kestrels, with opportunity to don a glove and get up-close with the stars of the show.
Tariff
$90 per person
Capacity
Minimum 2 guests
Duration 1.5 hours
Tariff
$900 for 1-4 guests
$65 per additional guest
(Private tour with park guide available for $1,500 for 1-2 guests, $400 per additional guest)
Capacity
Maximum 6 guests
(Maximum 4 guests for private option)
Duration
Half day (AM or PM departures)
Tariff
$900 for 1-4 guests
$65 per additional guest
Capacity
Maximum 6 guests
Duration
Half day (AM or PM departures)
Self-guided Walks
The lodge is set among the rugged coastal wilderness of Hanson Bay, while the inland vista is a sea of green, blessedly undeveloped hills, rolling into the distance. A series of hiking trails commences from the lodge doorstep, offering exploration at leisure. To view the full selection of hikes and walks, please refer to our interactive trail map
Hanson Bay Beach
Wander along the lodge’s raised boardwalk and 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 where a cool dip is optional.
Cape Younghusband Circuit
Hike along the clifftops to Cape Younghusband and experience the wonder of sheer limestone cliffs and hardy flora growing along the rugged coastline. Spot the osprey hovering above, fur seals frolicking in the waters below and the unique formations of the Remarkable Rocks off in the distance.
Kelly Hill
Hike the backcountry of Kelly Hill Conservation Park through eucalypt woodlands, grazing pastures, glassy lagoons and wetlands rich with birdlife. Emerge onto the white sands of Hanson Bay Beach where the aqua clear waters invite a swim. The final section hugs the jagged coastline and windswept beach to the lodge.
Distance 4km
Grade
Easy to moderate
Duration 1.5 hours return
Distance 9km
Grade
Moderate
Duration 3 hours return
Distance 12km
Grade
Moderate
Duration 4 hours return
Remarkable Rocks
Encounter massive swells, towering cliffs and sweeping views along the coast all the way from the Remarkable Rocks to Cape Younghusband. Sanderson Bay is an ideal lunch stop, before venturing inland through bushland home to all sorts of wildlife. Return to the lodge along the spectacular Clifftop Walk.
Distance 13km
Grade
Experienced
Duration 4.5 hours return
Exceptional KI Private Tours
A range of excellent, full day private itineraries are available from renowned island operator Exceptional Kangaroo Island. Explore Australia’s spectacular wildlife haven from the comfort of a customised four-wheel drive in the company of expert local guides promising good food, great wine and wildlife in the wild. Please enquire for rates and more information.
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 and wallabies to sea lions and a variety of birds.
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
Explore Kangaroo Island’s west end, encountering fur seals at Admirals Arch, the time-worn shapes of the Remarkable Rocks and the historically significant Cape du Couedic Lighthouse, a reminder of the region’s tumultuous maritime past.
How to book
Please call +61 2 9918 4355 during business operation hours: Monday–Friday 8am–6pm and Saturday 8.30am–4.30pm (AEST) or email reserve@baillielodges.com.au
Tariff
$2,316 for 1-2 guests
$376 per additional adult
$320 per additional child (10-15 years)
Capacity
Maximum 10 guests
Duration Full day
Tariff
$2,316 for 1-2 guests
$376 per additional adult
$320 per additional child (10-15 years)
Capacity
Maximum 10 guests
Duration Full day
Tariff
$2,316 for 1-2 guests
$376 per additional adult
$320 per additional child (10-15 years)
Capacity
Maximum 10 guests
Duration Full day
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 plant, paddock and sea to plate.
Art of Nature
From award-winning artists to rising stars, Kangaroo Island is emerging 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.
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.
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 and sampling spirits at a gin distillery.
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 are so many options!
*Additional charge applies, please enquire for rates.
Tariff
$2,316 for 1-2 guests
$376 per additional adult
$320 per additional child (10-15 years)
Capacity
Maximum 10 guests
Duration Full day
Tariff
$2,316 for 1-2 guests
$376 per additional adult
$320 per additional child (10-15 years)
Capacity
Maximum 10 guests
Duration
Full day
Tariff
$2,316 for 1-2 guests
$376 per additional adult
$320 per additional child (10-15 years)
Capacity
Maximum 10 guests
Duration Full day
Tariff
$2,316 for 1-2 guests
$376 per additional adult
$320 per additional child (10-15 years)
Capacity
Maximum 10 guests
Duration Full day
Tariff
$2,316 for 1-2 guests
$376 per additional adult
$320 per additional child (10-15 years)
Capacity
Maximum 10 guests
Duration Full day
Land Transfers
Whether you're arriving by ferry or flying from the mainland, the drive to and from the lodge is one you'll never forget. Shared land transfers between the lodge and Kangaroo Island Airport are included in the tariff and private transfers can be arranged on request. Please note that ferry terminal transfers are self-drive only.
Kangaroo Island Airport to lodge or return transfer (50 minutes driving time)
Shared Included in the tariff
Private (4 passengers)
Private (8 passengers)
Private (11 passengers)
Please note: a 50% surcharge applies for private transfers from/to Kingscote Airport operated after 9pm and prior to 6am (based on departure/arrival time at the lodge).
$600 each way
$700 each way
$800 each way
Terms & Conditions
Bookings are subject to availability and required in advance. For cancellations within 72 hours of the booking date, a 100% cancellation fee applies. Touring options, prices and inclusions are subject to change without notice. On some occasions, experiences may be affected by inclement weather conditions. For any activities cancelled or postponed by lodge management due to inclement weather, cancellation fees will not apply.
