10 Things You Didn't Know About Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroo Island, Australia is one of Australia’s most breathtaking destinations. Renowned for its rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, its a haven for nature lovers, photographers and adventurers alike. However, there’s more to this island than meets the eye, beyond the island’s natural beauty lies a treasure trove of history, culture, and quirky tales that make it even more extraordinary. From fascinating historical tidbits to unique local legends, Kangaroo Island, Australia, has plenty of secrets waiting to be uncovered.

If you are planning a trip to Kangaroo Island, Australia, here are 10 fascinating facts about Kangaroo Island that you might not know:

1. It Was Once Home to a Secret Whisky Distillery

Back in the early 19th century, Kangaroo Island played host to illegal whisky distilling operations. Its remote location and dense bushland made it the perfect hideout for bootleggers looking to evade authorities. Long before distilleries like Kangaroo Island Spirits brought legitimate fame to the island’s craft distilling, these secret operations were quietly thriving in the shadows, adding a rebellious twist to the island’s history.

Kangaroo Island Spirits, known as KIS, was established in 2006 by founders Jon and Sarah Lark. Inspired by the pristine environment and abundance of local botanicals on Kangaroo Island, the Larks set out to create Australia’s first dedicated gin distillery. Their vision was to craft premium, small-batch spirits that celebrated the island’s unique flora and flavors. Over the years, KIS has gained international acclaim for its award-winning gins, vodkas, and liqueurs, with a focus on sustainability and using local ingredients like native juniper berries, coastal daisy bush, and wild fennel. Kangaroo Island Spirits remains an iconic part of the island’s craft distilling scene and is a must-visit destination for spirit enthusiasts visiting the area. Kangaroo Island Trails visits KIS on our Kangaroo Island Full Day Tasting Tour, Kangaroo Island Cruise Ship Tasting Tour and our Kangaroo Island Half Day Tasting Tour.

2. The Only Pure Ligurian Honey Bees in the World Live Here

Kangaroo Island, Australia is home to the world’s last remaining pure Ligurian honey bee population. These bees were originally imported from Italy’s Ligurian region in the late 1800s, and the island’s natural isolation has since provided the perfect sanctuary for their survival. Unlike other regions where cross-breeding and diseases have affected bee populations, Kangaroo Island’s strict biosecurity measures have ensured that this unique breed remains genetically pure. This purity not only makes the Ligurian honey bees a vital part of the island’s ecosystem but also a living link to a centuries-old lineage that has been preserved against the odds.

To protect this invaluable population, Kangaroo Island, South Australia enforces some of the strictest biosecurity laws in the world. The importation of bees, honey products, and even used beekeeping equipment is strictly prohibited to prevent the introduction of diseases or foreign bee species. These measures safeguard not only the health of the Ligurian bees but also the island’s thriving honey industry, which produces some of the finest honey in the world, celebrated for its exceptional quality and flavor. Visitors to Kangaroo Island, Australia can learn more about these fascinating bees by visiting local honey farms, where they can witness the dedication to preserving this one-of-a-kind species and taste the fruits of their labor. The Ligurian honey bee story is a testament to the island’s commitment to conservation and its role in protecting a globally significant natural treasure. Places to be visited, to learn more about these bees and taste the flavorful honey that they produce, are Clifford's Honey Farm, Kangaroo Island Living Honey and Island Beehive. If you are planning a trip to Kangaroo Island and you are a bee enthusiast, Kangaroo Island Trails visits at least one of these honey farms on our Kangaroo Island Full Day Tasting Tour.

3. It’s Australia’s Third-Largest Island

Stretching over 4,400 square kilometers, Kangaroo Island, South Australia is the third-largest island in Australia, after Tasmania and Melville Island. Its size not only makes it a significant geographic feature but also provides ample space for its rich biodiversity, thriving wildlife, and unique ecosystems, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. It stretches approximately 155 kilometres from east to west and about 55 kilometres at its widest point and 0.9 kilometres at its narrowist point. The narrowest point on Kangaroo Island, South Australia is called Pennington Bay. At this location, you can climb the stairs to a lookout called Prospect Hill Lookout, where you can enjoy spectacular views of both sides of the island. The lookout is historically significant, as it was first climbed by Matthew Flinders in 1802 during his exploration of the island. Kangaroo Island Trails visits Pennington Bay on any tour that departs from Penneshaw.

4. The Island Has a Deep Indigenous History

Kangaroo Island, Australia, known as "Karta" by the local Ngarrindjeri people, was once home to Aboriginal communities thousands of years ago. Archaeological evidence, including stone tools and ancient campfire remains, suggests that the island was inhabited for over 10,000 years before being mysteriously abandoned. The reasons for their departure remain uncertain, with theories ranging from rising sea levels isolating the island to shifts in climate and resources. Today, the island remains a place of cultural significance for Aboriginal communities.

5. Remarkable Rocks Are Over 500 Million Years Old

Remarkable Rocks, one of Kangaroo Island’s most iconic landmarks, are an awe-inspiring natural wonder that took over 500 million years to form. These striking granite boulders, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Southern Ocean, have been sculpted into their unique shapes by the relentless forces of wind, sea spray, and rain over millennia. Their weathered formations and vibrant orange lichen make them a must-see attraction, offering visitors both stunning photo opportunities and a chance to marvel at the island's ancient geological history. Remarkable Rocks is one of the stops that Kangaroo Island Trails will take you to when you book our Kangaroo Island Scenic, Nature and Wildlife Tour.

6. You Can Spot Little Penguins in Penneshaw

Kangaroo Island, Australia is one of the best places in Australia to see little penguins in the wild. The earliest record of the little penguins around Kangaroo Island was 1826. Little penguins are the smallest in the world, roughly 33 cm tall and weighing around 1 kg. Head to Penneshaw at dusk to watch them waddle ashore after a day of fishing. You can also do a tour with the Penneshaw Penguin Centre that starts at various times in the evening. This tour is also included in our Kangaroo Island 5 Day Experience.

7. Flinders Chase National Park Was Devastated by Bushfires

In 2020, Kangaroo Island was ravaged by catastrophic bushfires, with more than half the island, including much of Flinders Chase National Park, left scorched. This iconic park, known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife, faced immense devastation. However, in the years since, the island has become a testament to nature’s resilience. Slowly but surely, the park’s ecosystems are regenerating, with new growth emerging from the ashes and wildlife returning to the area. Flinders Chase now stands as a symbol of recovery, offering visitors a chance to witness the incredible power of nature’s renewal firsthand. Our Private Tours allow guests to tailor the tour to themselves, by doing so, allowing a much more personal tour.

8. There’s a Unique Pink Lake on the Island

Lake Florence, a hidden gem on Kangaroo Island, Australia, is a must-see for visitors exploring the island’s natural wonders. This unique pink lake occasionally transforms into a stunning pink hue, thanks to salt-loving algae that thrive under the right conditions. While it may not be as well-known as Lake Hillier in Western Australia, Lake Florence offers a breathtaking and serene experience for those seeking something truly special. One of our Kangaroo Island Tours where you may see a remarkable natural attraction like this, would be our Kangaroo Island Full Day Tasting Tour.

9. The Island Has More Kangaroos Than People

Kangaroo Island, Australia, truly lives up to its name, with thousands of kangaroos roaming freely across its stunning landscapes. Remarkably, the island’s kangaroo population far exceeds its human population of approximately 4,500 residents. These kangaroos are a unique subspecies, distinct from their mainland counterparts, being slightly smaller and darker in appearance. Visitors on any of our Kangaroo Island tours often have the chance to spot these iconic animals in their natural habitat, making it a memorable experience for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

10. You Can Experience Some of the Best Food and Wine in Australia

Kangaroo Island, Australia, is a true foodie’s paradise, renowned for its fresh seafood, premium wines, and artisanal delights. From locally produced honey and olives to handcrafted gin and freshly shucked oysters, the island’s thriving culinary scene offers something for every palate. Visitors can indulge in these exceptional flavors by joining one of the Kangaroo Island Trails Full Day Tasting Tours, which showcase the very best of the island’s local produce and gourmet experiences. It’s a must for anyone looking to savor the unique tastes of this incredible destination.

Kangaroo Island is full of surprises, blending natural beauty, rich history, and unique wildlife. Whether you’re visiting for adventure, relaxation, or gourmet delights, there’s always something new to discover. Book a tour with Kangaroo Island Trails here and let us show you the hidden gems of this incredible island!