The largest town on Kangaroo Island, Kingscote is situated on the coast of Nepean Bay, on the northeast corner of the island, and boasts an extensive collection of restaurants, cafes, shopping, heritage sites, and wildlife. On the north end of town is the historical Hope Cottage Folk Museum; built in the 1850s, it is now one of the oldest homes on the island. Other notable heritage sites in Kingscote include The Bluff Cottage, Barrett’s Store, and the Old Government Quarry.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of local sculpture, jewellery, paintings, glasswork, and woodcraft art at the Kangaroo Island Art Gallery in the centre of Kingscote as well as the many smaller galleries. There’s no shortage of great restaurant options, and local brews and spirits can be found at the Kangaroo Island Brewery and Kangaroo Island Spirits.
For wildlife and nature enthusiasts, head to the Busby Islet Conservation Park, a 17-hectare nature reserve just north of Kingscote at the mouth of Nepean Bay. The park is home to numerous bird species, such as Australian Pelicans, and Sooty Oystercatchers, and is also home to a colony of the smallest penguins in the world, the little penguin. Avid beachgoers should be sure to pay a visit to Emu Bay to indulge in the white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Step into the boots of a beekeeper in this hands-on, unforgettable experience at Island Beehive. Guided by a seasoned expert, you’ll suit up in a protective, ventilated bee suit and venture out to the hives where the magic happens. Feel the buzz as you open an active hive, learn how to use a smoker, and discover the fascinating world of bee behaviour. Hold a frame full of bees for the ultimate photo opportunity and gain a deeper understanding of honey extraction and the creation of other bee products. Finish your experience with a guided tour of the extraction facility and a tasting of our rare and delicious Kangaroo Island Ligurian honey. This is a truly immersive experience perfect for nature lovers, curious minds, and anyone wanting a deeper connection to the natural world.
Go beyond the jar with this guided Behind the Scenes Tour at Island Beehive, where you’ll uncover the magic behind Kangaroo Island’s world-famous Ligurian honey. Led by passionate local guides, you’ll explore how the protected Ligurian bees transform nectar into the golden honey we all love. Discover the rich history of these unique bees, take a peek inside the honey extracting facility, and enjoy a personalised honey tasting experience showcasing a variety of flavours and textures. To top it off, every tour includes a complimentary gift and a scoop of delicious honey ice cream, perfect to enjoy on the balcony as you watch the bees return to their hives after a day’s work. A sweet and educational experience for all ages!
Get inspired with stories and advice on visiting Australia.
If you are planning a trip to Australia, you can rely on the expertise of a team of Australian specialists to help you design the perfect itinerary. Whether you are interested in exploring the Whitsunday Islands, Tasmania, the Red Centre, Perth, or any other part of the country, they can assist you in finding the best options to suit your interests, preferences, and budget.
The team has extensive experience and knowledge of the different regions of Australia, and can provide you with first-hand advice and recommendations on the best places to visit, things to see and do, and where to stay. Whether you are looking for a fly and drive tour, a coach tour, or a combination of both, they can tailor your itinerary to your needs.
When it comes to accommodation, the team can provide you with a huge range of ideas to suit all, from luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly hotels and apartments. They can also recommend unique and authentic accommodations, such as boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts, that will enhance your experience of Australia and give you a taste of the local culture.
Whether you are a solo traveller, a couple, a family, or a group of friends, the team can help you create an itinerary that meets your needs and interests. They will work with you to ensure that you get the most out of your trip, and provide you with up-to-date and honest advice to help you make the best decisions.