Flinders Chase National Park

Flinders Chase National Park is Kangaroo Island’s wild heart: a rugged, windswept sanctuary of dramatic cliffs, ancient rock formations, and pristine wilderness. Established in 1919, this 326-square-kilometre park protects some of South Australia’s most iconic coastal scenery, including the famous Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Here, you can wander among sculpted granite boulders, watch New Zealand fur seals play in the surf, and hike through mallee scrub and eucalypt forests alive with birdlife. The park’s isolation and raw beauty make it a must-do for anyone exploring the island.

Highlights & What to See

• Remarkable Rocks – These precariously balanced granite boulders, weathered into fantastical shapes, are the park’s most photographed sight. Visit at sunset when the golden light sets the rocks ablaze.
• Admirals Arch – A spectacular natural bridge carved by the Southern Ocean, with a boardwalk offering front-row views of a large colony of long-nosed fur seals.
• Cape du Couedic Lighthouse – Built in 1909, this historic lighthouse sits atop rugged cliffs; the adjacent heritage cottages now house a small museum.
• Weirs Cove & the Kelly Hill Caves – Descend into limestone caves for a guided tour of stalactites and stalagmites, or explore the historic jetty and flying fox used to supply the lighthouse.
• Platypus Waterholes Walk – A short trail near Rocky River that offers a chance to spot platypuses (dawn/dusk best) in freshwater pools.
• Snake Lagoon & Cape Borda Lightstation – Remote, less-visited corners with sweeping ocean views and a chance to see kangaroos, echidnas, and goannas.

Suggested Time to Spend

To do justice to Flinders Chase, plan a full day (8–10 hours) from Kingscote or American River. This allows time to drive the 60 km to the park, stop at all major sights, and enjoy a couple of short walks. If you’re short on time, a half-day focused on Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch is still worthwhile. Overnight visitors staying at the park’s campground or nearby lodges can add a sunset and sunrise visit for magical light and fewer crowds.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kingscote – The island’s main town, with penguin tours, seafood restaurants, and a historic jetty.
• American River – A peaceful fishing village on the Pelican Lagoon, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching.
• Seal Bay Conservation Park – Just east of Flinders Chase, home to a large colony of Australian sea lions with guided beach walks.
• Vivonne Bay – A stunning white-sand beach and jetty, perfect for a swim or picnic stop.
• Little Sahara – Inland sand dunes offering sandboarding and panoramic views over the island.

Please check official sources for current details.