Holiday houses in Penneshaw

The gateway to Kangaroo Island, Penneshaw is perched on the north coast of Dudley Peninsula. Known for being the main ferry port to Kangaroo Island’s white beaches, ancient forests, native wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, Penneshaw has a wealth of riches to explore. The town is home to a golf course, scenic wineries with cliff top views, and the Gateway Information Centre with stories of the island and its rich cultural history.

The Penguin Interpretive Center highlights the famous local colony and how they live, while the town’s beach, Hog Bay — named after pigs released here long ago — is an excellent place for a swim or picnic. With fertile farms and vineyards nestled among gum trees, the island is a food lover’s paradise. On the first Sunday of every month, the Kangaroo Island Farmers and Community Market has a vast offering of regional food, artisanal crafts, and local art.

Autumn here is characterised by beautiful mild days and cool nights. Warm days with extended daylight are ideal for bushwalking and nature photography. Evenings are still cool, so don’t forget to pack a jacket. Winter brings out the newborn wildlife and sees colder temperatures, with the wind being the most significant factor. Temperatures begin to rise in early spring, with little precipitation, and September’s WILDROO Ultra Marathon draws crowds from far and wide. The annual Wildlife Carnival in Cygnet River in October celebrates the area’s native wildlife through storytelling. Summer brings ample sunshine and warm days perfect for soaking up island life.

Kangaroo Island Sculpture Trail

Explore local art in nature on the Kangaroo Island Sculpture Trail. Located in the heart of Penneshaw just minutes’ walk from the jetty, the trail passes scenic lookouts, native vegetation, and stunning ravine walls. Admire original artwork and handcrafted benches while looking for the ancient ghost tree and wildlife spotting. As flora and fauna grow, the trail continues to expand with newly added sculptures and landscape elements.

Maritime and Folk Museum

The Penneshaw Maritime and Folk Museum is a National Trust Museum offering displays, information, and artifacts related to the maritime history of the island. The museum was founded in 1968 by a group of locals, and today visitors can wander through exhibits of personal historical items from Wednesday to Sunday, all year round.

Flinders Chase National Park

One of Australia’s most beloved national parks, Flinders Chase National Park sits at the western end of Kangaroo Island. A 90-minute drive from Penneshaw, the park has beautiful coastal landscapes and natural features such as Admiral’s Arch, Cape du Couedic Lighthouse, and Remarkable Rock. Several walking and hiking trails range from beginner to advanced, taking you through beautiful undergrowth and stunning sugar gum forests. The park has limited toilets and does not offer drinks or food, so pack ahead of time.