Flinders Chase National Park: A Complete Guide to Kangaroo Island's Premier Wilderness

Flinders Chase is home to some of Australia's most recognisable natural landmarks. These are the sights you simply cannot miss:

Remarkable Rocks

Perched dramatically on a granite headland overlooking the Southern Ocean, the Remarkable Rocks are a true spectacle of nature. These enormous, weathered granite boulders have been sculpted by wind, rain, and sea spray over 500 million years into surreal, abstract shapes. The vibrant orange lichen that clings to the rocks creates a stunning contrast with the deep blue of the ocean, making it a photographer's dream.

The rocks are particularly spectacular during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the soft light accentuates the colours and textures of the granite. A well-maintained boardwalk provides easy access to the main viewing areas, ensuring visitors of all mobility levels can enjoy this geological marvel. The boardwalk is fully accessible for wheelchair users and prams, making it an inclusive experience for everyone.

Photography Tip: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of the rocks against the ocean backdrop. The best angles are from the eastern side of the boardwalk, where you can frame the rocks with the ocean and sky behind them. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and take advantage of the soft, golden light.

Admirals Arch

A short 10-minute drive from the Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch is another of the park's iconic features. This natural rock arch, carved out by the relentless power of the sea over millions of years, frames a stunning view of the ocean. A scenic boardwalk winds its way down the cliff face to the arch, offering spectacular coastal views along the way.

But the arch itself is only part of the attraction. The rock platforms below are home to a large colony of New Zealand fur seals. Watch as these playful creatures surf the waves, sunbathe on the rocks, and interact with each other in their natural habitat. It's a captivating display of wildlife that makes Admirals Arch a truly special place. The fur seals are most active during the warmer months, from November to March, though they can be seen year-round.

The boardwalk to the arch is about 1 kilometre return and takes approximately 30 minutes at a leisurely pace. It's a relatively easy walk, though there are some stairs to navigate on the way down and back up. The views are absolutely worth the effort.

Cape du Couedic Lighthouse

Standing sentinel over the wild coastline, the Cape du Couedic Lighthouse is a piece of Kangaroo Island's maritime history. Built in 1909, this heritage-listed lighthouse has guided ships safely through these treacherous waters for over a century. The lighthouse was built to prevent maritime disasters after several ships were wrecked on the rocks below.

Whilst the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, you can explore the surrounding area and the historic lighthouse keeper's cottages. It's a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those who lived and worked in this remote and rugged part of the world. 

The cottages have been restored and now serve as a museum, offering insights into the lives of the lighthouse keepers and their families. It's a fascinating piece of Australian history that adds context and depth to your visit to Flinders Chase.

Lighthouse Keeper's Heritage Trail (1.8km return, 45 minutes):

An easy, accessible walk that takes you around the Cape du Couedic Lighthouse precinct, offering insights into the lives of the early lighthouse keepers. The trail is well-marked and suitable for families with young children. Interpretive signage along the way provides information about the history of the lighthouse and the people who worked there.

Admirals Arch Walk (1km return, 30 minutes):

The boardwalk to Admirals Arch is a must-do, with stunning coastal views and the chance to see the fur seal colony up close. This is one of the most popular walks in the park, so it's best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. The walk is moderately easy, though there are stairs on the descent and ascent.

Platypus Waterholes Walk (4.5km return, 2 hours):

A moderate walk that takes you through a variety of habitats, offering the chance to spot the elusive platypus in the wild. Patience and a keen eye are required! The walk follows a creek through dense forest, and the best time to spot platypuses is early in the morning or at dusk. This walk is more challenging than the other two, as the terrain is uneven and there are several creek crossings.

Flinders Chase is a sanctuary for a wide variety of native Australian animals. As you explore the park, keep your eyes peeled for:

Kangaroos and Wallabies

The Kangaroo Island kangaroo, a subspecies of the Western Grey, is abundant throughout the park. You're also likely to see Tammar Wallabies, especially around dawn and dusk when they're most active. These animals are generally shy and will move away if you approach too closely, so it's best to observe them from a distance.

Koalas

Look for them snoozing in the forks of eucalyptus trees. The park's dense woodlands are one of the best places on the island to see them in the wild. Koalas are most active at dawn and dusk, and they're often found in the same trees day after day, so if you spot one, you might see it again the next day in the same location.

Echidnas and Goannas

These more elusive creatures can often be seen foraging on the side of the road or on walking trails. Echidnas are particularly common in the park, and you're likely to see at least one during your visit. Goannas are less common but can occasionally be spotted, especially on warmer days.

Birdlife

The park is home to a variety of native birds, including the iconic Laughing Kookaburra, the colourful Rainbow Lorikeet, and the rare Glossy Black-Cockatoo. Early morning is the best time for birdwatching, when the birds are most vocal and active.

For the ultimate wildlife experience, consider joining one of our wildlife tours. Our expert guides know the best spots to find the island's unique animals and can share fascinating insights into their behaviour and ecology. They can also help you identify species and explain the ecological relationships that make Flinders Chase such a special place.

Flinders Chase National Park is a year-round destination, with each season offering a different experience:

Spring (September - November)

The park comes alive with wildflowers, and it's a great time for birdwatching as many species are breeding. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for walking and exploring. The park is less crowded than during summer, so you can enjoy a more peaceful experience.

Summer (December - February)

Long, sunny days are perfect for exploring the coastline and swimming at the beaches. The fur seals are most active during this time, making it the best season for wildlife viewing. However, the park can be quite crowded during the school holidays, so plan your visit accordingly. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as there's little shade in many areas of the park.

Autumn (March - May)

The cooler weather is ideal for hiking, and the softer light is perfect for photography. The park is less crowded than during summer, and the wildflowers are still blooming. The weather is generally stable, making it a reliable time to visit.

Winter (June - August)

The park is lush and green, and the dramatic winter skies create a moody and atmospheric backdrop for the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Rainfall is more common during winter, so be prepared with waterproof clothing. The park is at its quietest during this season, offering a more solitary and contemplative experience.

Flinders Chase National Park is more than just a collection of beautiful sights; it's an experience that stays with you long after you've left. It's the feeling of standing in the presence of ancient rocks, the sound of the ocean crashing against the cliffs, and the thrill of seeing a koala in its natural habitat. It's a place that reminds us of the power and beauty of the natural world and the importance of protecting it for future generations.

Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a first-time visitor to Australia, Flinders Chase offers something truly special. The park's combination of dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich history makes it one of the most rewarding destinations on Kangaroo Island. Take your time, explore at your own pace, and allow yourself to be captivated by the wild beauty of this extraordinary place.

Ready to explore the wonders of Flinders Chase National Park? Let us take you on an unforgettable adventure. Our small group tours are designed to give you an intimate and authentic experience of this incredible place, with expert local guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge of the park and its wildlife. Book your unforgettable adventure with Kangaroo Island Trails today!