Flinders Chase National Park

Flinders Chase National Park, on Kangaroo Island's western end, is a wild and windswept sanctuary of dramatic coastal cliffs, ancient rock formations, and abundant native wildlife. This is South Australia's most iconic national park, where the Southern Ocean crashes against granite boulders sculpted into Remarkable Rocks and the natural arch of Admirals Arch frames a colony of long-nosed fur seals. For travellers seeking untamed nature, this is an essential stop on any Kangaroo Island itinerary.

Highlights & What to See

• Remarkable Rocks – A cluster of precariously balanced, weather-sculpted granite boulders perched atop a dome of rock, glowing gold at sunset. Wander among them for surreal photo ops and sweeping ocean views.
• Admirals Arch – A natural rock bridge carved by the sea, with a boardwalk leading down to viewing platforms where you can watch New Zealand fur seals frolic in the surf below.
• Cape du Couedic Lighthouse – Built in 1909, this historic lighthouse stands on a rugged headland. The adjacent cottages now house a small museum on maritime history.
• Flinders Chase Visitor Centre – Start here for maps, exhibits on the park's geology and ecology, and advice on walking trails. The nearby boardwalk through coastal heath is great for spotting kangaroos and wallabies.
• Wildlife Encounters – Kangaroo Island kangaroos, Tammar wallabies, echidnas, and goannas are commonly seen. At dusk, look for koalas in the eucalypt woodlands along the park's drives.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate a full day to explore the park properly. Arrive early to beat the tour buses at Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. A loop drive from the visitor centre to Cape du Couedic and back takes about 2–3 hours without stops, but you'll want at least 4–5 hours to walk the short trails and linger at viewpoints. If you're staying overnight on Kangaroo Island, consider an afternoon visit followed by sunset at Remarkable Rocks.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kelly Hill Caves – A network of limestone caves with guided tours through fossil-rich chambers, just 20 minutes east of the park.
• Vivonne Bay – A stunning white-sand beach perfect for a swim or picnic, about 30 minutes from the park entrance.
• Seal Bay Conservation Park – Home to a colony of Australian sea lions, with guided beach walks to see them up close.
• Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail – A multi-day hike that traverses the park's coastal heath and cliffs; sections can be done as day walks.
• Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary – A private sanctuary with koala walks and nocturnal tours, located near the park's eastern boundary.

Please check official sources for current details.