A woman in a wheelchair and her tour guide look out over turquoise ocean waters from orange lichen-covered rock ledge at Remarkable Rocks, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. © Tourism Australia © Tourism Australia

Remarkable Rocks, Kangaroo Island, South Australia © Tourism Australia

5 days of Kangaroo Island and Adelaide

From the charming city of Adelaide to South Australia’s island sanctuary, this gourmet-meets-adventure getaway blends delicious luxuries with inspiring outdoor adventure.

Trip overview

5 days

Car, plane

277km (172mi)

The must-do experiences

Taste South Australia’s gourmet produce
Marvel at the Remarkable Rocks
Swim with dolphins

Day 1: Adelaide

Start your South Australian adventure exploring Adelaide, where the city meets the beach. There’s no shortage of things to do in Adelaide.

Pool Deck of Crowne Plaza, Adelaide, SA © Crowne Plaza Adelaide

Where to stay in Adelaide

From luxury suites with every amenity to affordable art-filled hotels and beachside family apartments, Adelaide has accommodation to suit every taste and budget.

Read time • 4min

Day 2: Adelaide to Kangaroo Island via McLaren Vale

3.5hrs 210km (130mi)

Retreat to the pristine white shores of Kangaroo Island today via car or plane. The adventure starts the moment you lay eyes on Kangaroo Island’s immaculate white beaches and green hills.

Travel tip: Not all car hire companies allow their vehicles to be taken to Kangaroo Island. Check with your provider before your departure, or rent a vehicle on the island.

Kangaroo Island Spirits, Kangaroo Island, SA © Meaghan Coles

Find the best places to eat on Kangaroo Island

Spend your days eating and drinking around Kangaroo Island and you will find plenty of reasons to return.

Read time • 3min

Day 3: Emu Bay

Spend today exploring Emu Bay and its surroundings. From epic wildlife encounters to unique gourmet experiences, this is a day you’ll remember.

Day 4: Flinders Chase National Park

Marvel at the wonders of Kangaroo Island’s Flinders Chase National Park, one of Australia’s largest national parks and a mecca for wildlife.

Day 5: Kangaroo Island to Adelaide

3.5hrs 210km (130mi)

Spend your last morning on the island experiencing some of Kangaroo Island’s quintessential activities. Walk along the sand with seals and enjoy the beaches before heading back to Adelaide.

Freqently Asked Questions

How do I get to Adelaide from the UK?

Travelling to Adelaide from the UK is straightforward, with options including one stopover for the most direct access, or two stopovers to include another Australian city in your itinerary.

One stopover (fastest route): You can fly via major hubs like Singapore or Dubai, with an easy onward flight to Adelaide (ADL). Alternatively, take the non-stop flight from London Heathrow (LHR) to Perth (PER), then hop on a direct flight to Adelaide (ADL).
Two stopovers (multi-city route): Connect through global hubs like Dubai (DXB) into a major Australian city – like Sydney (SYD) or Melbourne (MEL) – before taking a domestic flight to Adelaide (ADL).
Onward to Kangaroo Island: From Adelaide, it’s easy to reach Kangaroo Island by flight or ferry.

Is Adelaide and Kangaroo Island a good option for families?

Yes, this 5-day Adelaide and Kangaroo Island itinerary is a fantastic option for families seeking premium experiences.

Luxury eco-lodges and curated private tours make it especially manageable for families with children of all ages. The trip kicks off with urban adventures in Adelaide, including the spectacular views from the Adelaide Oval RoofClimb. In Glenelg or on Kangaroo Island, families have the rare opportunity to join guided eco-tours to swim alongside dolphins in their natural habitat.

Where should I stay on an Adelaide and Kangaroo Island itinerary?

In Adelaide, stay within the city centre, where you'll find a collection of five-star boutique hotels, luxury high-rises and heritage stays close to dining and cultural attractions. On Kangaroo Island, the main hub of Kingscote offers premium eco-lodges and private villas with easy access to the island's attractions. For the ultimate wilderness retreat, heading to the dramatic southern coast to the ultra-luxury Southern Ocean Lodge promises an unforgettable experience.

What’s the best time of year to visit Adelaide and Kangaroo Island?

South Australia is a brilliant year-round destination, but the absolute best time to visit depends on whether you want to prioritise warm weather or peak wildlife encounters.

September to May is the most popular time for exploring Adelaide's vibrant dining scene and pristine city beaches, and these months also offer beautifully warm weather on Kangaroo Island. The months from June to August are cooler and crisper, but are widely considered the best time to visit Kangaroo Island if you're a wildlife lover. At this time of year, koalas and echidnas are more active, kangaroo joeys emerge from their mothers' pouches and migrating whales can be spotted right from the southern cliffs.

How do I get around Adelaide and Kangaroo Island?

Getting around is easy with a mix of transport options. In Adelaide, you can explore the city by car or public transport. To reach Kangaroo Island, you’ll take a short flight or ferry from Adelaide, and once there, hiring a car or joining a guided tour is the best way to experience the island.

Explore more nearby

Underwater view of people swimming with dolphins with Temptation Sailing, Adelaide, South Australia © Tourism Australia

Trips and itineraries

3 days in Adelaide

Places to go

Top places to eat and drink on Kangaroo Island

Remarkable Rocks, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. © South Australian Tourism Commission

Places to go

Guide to Kangaroo Island