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Lashmar Conservation Park

National Parks and Reserves

Lashmar Conservation Park

A favourite for beach lovers, Lashmar Conservation Park adjoins the long sandy beach at Antechamber Bay. The park is an ideal location for swimming, fishing and bird watching and is just a short drive from Cape Willoughby lightstation. Explore the park further by canoeing your way along the tranquil Chapman River which flows through the park and into the sea at Antechamber Bay. A scenic picnic area and campground are also available within the park. Please note camping fees apply.

Penneshaw SA

4.3 km away

Antechamber Bay

Natural Attractions

Antechamber Bay

Located on the north coast of Dudley Peninsula on Kangaroo Island overlooking Backstairs Passage. Antechamber Bay beach is a 4.2 km long, northeast facing beach. It is around 30 minutes on a sealed and unsealed road, and into Lashmar Conservation Park, where you will see the beautiful Antechamber Bay. A favourite for beach lovers with a long sandy beach.

Antechamber Bay SA

4.8 km away

Chapman River

National Parks and Reserves

Chapman River

Chapman River is an ideal location for swimming, fishing and birdwatching. A great destination to visit with children, as they can play in the shallow waters of the river mouth. Explore by canoeing your way along the tranquil Chapman River which flows through the Lashmar Conservation park and into the sea at Antechamber Bay. A scenic picnic area and campground are also available.

Antechamber Bay SA

5.4 km away

Ironstone Hill Hike

Natural Attractions

Baudin Conservation Park Ironstone Hill Hike

Ironstone Hill Hike (1 hr 30 mins return, 4km return) This hike follows the coast east of Penneshaw along a section of the original bullock track to Cape Willoughby and provides spectacular views across Backstairs Passage to the Fleurieu Peninsula. After climbing through regenerating sheoak vegetation, the hike leads to the ruins of Harry Bates' cottage and a stone threshing floor on Ironstone Hill. The farming heritage of the area is interpreted on signs along the hike. Access: follow Frenchmans Terrace along the foreshore at Penneshawto the car park at the start of Binneys Track.

Ironstone SA

7.5 km away

Frenchman's Rock

Landmarks and Buildings

Frenchman's Rock

The rock, named Frenchman's Rock, was inscribed by the members of Nicolas Baudin's crew on the ship Le Geographe in 1803 on their expedition to map the coast of New Holland (now Australia). They stopped at the bay to collect meat and fresh water. Baudin and his crew stayed for 3 weeks and during that time, he mapped the island and collected many flora and fauna specimens. Baudin and his men announced their arrival to the island by inscribing the rock. The inscription reads: "Expedition de decourverte par le commandant Baudin sur le Geographe 1803". The English translation is "Expedition of discovery by Captain Baudin in the Geographe 1803".

Penneshaw SA

8.3 km away

Baudin Conservation Park — Image credit: DEW

Natural Attractions

Baudin Conservation Park

Baudin Conservation Park was a family farm from 1861 to 2001, and comprises of she-oak woodland and rolling hills, with spectacular views across Backstairs Passage to the Fleurieu Peninsula. Interpretation along the Ironstone Hill Hike follows part of the original bullock track to Cape Willoughby and provides an insight into how the Bates family lived and worked in this area. The hike leads to Ironstone Hill where the ruins of the Bates' cottage and a stone threshing floor remain. While walking through the park you may encounter tammar wallabies, and see wedge-tailed eagles. The rare glossy black cockatoos may also be seen feeding in the she-oak forest. You may even catch a glimpse of dolphins and whales swimming in Backstairs Passage adjoining the park.

Penneshaw SA

8.3 km away

Penneshaw Beach

Natural Attractions

Penneshaw Beach

Penneshaw Beach (Hog Bay) is 600 m long and faces the northeast. There is a reserve and low foredune running the length of the beach, with toilets and picnic facilities at the western end, and a monument to the French explorers at the eastern end. A road backs the length of the beach, providing good access and parking. The town's beach known as Hog Bay, was named after the fact that numerous pigs were released here long ago. Today it is a great place for a swim and for a picnic making it a great family beach.

Penneshaw SA

8.6 km away

Kangaroo Island Sculpture Trail — Image credit: Kangaroo Island Sculpture Trail

Natural Attractions

Kangaroo Island Sculpture Trail

The Kangaroo Island Sculpture Trail is the region's leading cultural art attraction, owned and managed through the work of community volunteers. The trail's sculptures capture the unique story of Kangaroo Island, its natural environment and its community, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors and residents alike. Located in the heart of the coastal village of Penneshaw, just a few minute's walk from the Penneshaw Jetty, opposite beautiful Hog Bay Beach, The Kangaroo Island Sculpture Trail is a fun, free and family-friendly experience offering original artwork in a beautiful native setting. Come for a wander through the stunning trail, following the contours of the natural environment. Explore the many surprises, scenic lookouts, ancient vegetation and the stunning ravine walls. Your donation to the trail helps our volunteers grow our trail's art collection. The trail is 1.5 kms in length; an easy walk but with some steps so is unfortunately not suitable for wheelchairs. The trail is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Trail markers with maps are situated within the trail to help you select your route.

Penneshaw SA

8.7 km away

Australian nursery print - vintage tones. Print of watercolour artwork. — Image credit: Robyn Field, 2019, KI and Co. Australia

Shopping and Markets

KI and Co. Australia

Proudly Australian made and handmade, KI & Co. Australia provides a unique range of leather earrings, art prints, greeting cards and Australian and Kangaroo Island souvenirs. Run by mother and daughter duo, Robyn and Kellie, you'll find their products stocked in retailers throughout Australia. The range continues to evolve and they're open to custom requests and collaboration.

Penneshaw SA

8.9 km away

Market browse — Image credit: Robyn Field

Shopping and Markets

Penneshaw Market

Penneshaw Markets is a showcase for local artists, gardeners, growers, authors, photographers, artisans, and small-scale food producers in a social village atmosphere. Stay for an Island specialty lunch in the scenic backdrop of our town Oval or visit the local cafes and restaurants for a freshly prepared meal. Spend a lazy afternoon on the beach or enjoy one of the many walks around Penneshaw including Kangaroo Island Sculpture Trail, Wallaby Track, Ironhill hike and the Walking Penneshaw guide. Visit the Maritime Museum to learn of the early settlers and their pioneer life styles. Penneshaw Market Days are held the first Sunday of every month, plus Easter Sunday, from October – April as well as to welcome large cruise ship arrivals. In the event of adverse weather, the market falls back to Penneshaw Hall which is adjacent the Oval. The schedule of cruise ship arrivals for which markets will be held is available on the Penneshaw Market Facebook page.

Penneshaw SA

9.1 km away

Fireball Bates Walking Trail

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Fireball Bates Trail

George Bates, called Fireball because of his red hair, was one of the first settlers to Kangaroo Island. He joined a sealing expedition in 1823, jumping ship in Kangaroo Island 13 years before settlers arrived. The trail begins at the Kangaroo Island Visitor Information Centre and loops down to near the ferry and back. There are interpretive signs along the way. It is an easy walk of 3km and takes 1-2 hours to complete.

Penneshaw SA

9.3 km away

Christmas Cove

Natural Attractions

Christmas Cove

Christmas Cove on the western side of the Penneshaw town, has been converted into a small boat harbour through the construction of two small harbour walls and a dredged basin. The 300 metre long high tide beach curves around the shore of the very protected, almost circular bay, surrounded by 20 metre high bluffs. The bay was originally filled with the fronting sand flats, the western side of which have been dredged for a boat ramp and moorings. The cove is an important geological site, with Palaeozoic glacial erratics lying on the beach. Look for the ice scratches in the cliff face caused by ice action over 250 million years ago. Large granite boulders carried by a glacier are now monument to Captain Matthew Flinders. Christmas Cove is unsuitable for swimming, owing to the shallow sand flats and boat traffic.

Penneshaw SA

9.4 km away

Penneshaw Maritime and Folk Museum — Image credit: Rick Norman

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Penneshaw Maritime And Folk Museum

The Penneshaw Maritime and Folk Museum is a National Trust Museum situated in Penneshaw on the Dudley Peninsula at the eastern end of Kangaroo Island. It has displays, information and artefacts on the maritime and folk history of the Dudley Peninsula. The Museum was started in 1968 by a group of dedicated local people led by Keith and Margot McKenzie. At that time many people came forward to donate personal historical items from the Dudley Peninsula. The Museum was initially a sub branch of the Kingscote Museum and the Kangaroo Island Branch of the National Trust. In the 1980s the Dudley area became a National Trust branch in its own right. The Museum is open Wed. to Sun. from 2 pm to 4.30pm or by appointment. Group bookings welcome. Please note this run by volunteers and opening times may vary.

Penneshaw SA

9.5 km away

Cape Willoughby Heritage Trail

Natural Attractions

Cape Willoughby Heritage Trail

Situated in the easternmost point of Kangaroo Island, Cape Willoughby Lighthouse was the first lighthouse to be built in South Australia in 1852. It stands 27 metres high with 102 steps to the lookout tower, and offers stunning panoramic view across Backstairs Passage and the Kangaroo Island coastline Self-guided walking trails provide further insight into the lives of the early Lighthouse Keepers and the construction of the Lightstation. A 1.9-kilometre loop walk commences from the Visitors Centre.

Willoughby SA

14 km away

Cape Willoughby Lightstation - Cape Willoughby Conservation Park

Landmarks and Buildings

Cape Willoughby Lightstation - Cape Willoughby Conservation Park

Situated in the easternmost point of Kangaroo Island, Cape Willoughby Lighthouse was the first lighthouse to be built in South Australia in 1852. It stands 27 metres high with 102 steps to the lookout tower, and offers stunning panoramic view across Backstairs Passage and the Kangaroo Island coastline. Guided tours of the Lightstation precinct, including the tower, are held daily. The Visitor Centre includes a fascinating museum reading room, with light refreshments and souvenirs available. Self-guided walking trails provide further insight into the lives of the early Lighthouse Keepers and the construction of the Lightstation. A 1.9 kilometre loop walk commences from the Visitors Centre. Nearby Antechamber Bay, in Lashmar Conservation Park, offers a long sandy beach perfect for swimming, beachcombing, with picnic and camping facilities.

Willoughby SA

14 km away

Artworks gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Artworks Gallery

Artworks is a friendly, informal community gallery manned and run entirely by the artists themselves and volunteer members of the artists Collective KI Inc. The gallery is housed in an attractive open space building with light and airy display areas. The wide range of art and craft work for sale is a feature of artworks and includes paintings, photography, prints, collages, lino and solar etching prints, paper tole, jewellery, pottery, sculptures, wood and metal work, handmade felt items, hand knitted scarves and hats, cards, bookmarks and much more! Whether you are looking for a unique piece of artwork from Kangaroo Island or a small memento of your visit you will find plenty to choose from at Artworks. A special photo opportunity is the giant limestone octopus at the entrance! If the flags are out, the gallery is open.

Baudin Beach SA

15 km away

Baudin Beach

Natural Attractions

Baudin Beach

Baudin Beach located on the Dudley Peninsula was named in 2002 after the French navigator Nicolas Baudin in honor of his exploration of Kangaroo Island in 1802. Prior to 2002, Baudin Beach was known as American Beach. Next to the boat ramp is copper sculpture celebrating Mary Beckwith, the first recorded European woman to set foot on South Australia soil. East of the town is a staircase to the mouth of Deep Creek. To the west follow the boardwalk to a sheltered beach. Facilities include a boat ramp, viewing platform, clifftop walking path and public toilets

Baudin Beach SA

15 km away

Blowhole beach aerial view — Image credit: DEWNR

Natural Attractions

Blowhole Beach

Blowhole Beach is a stunning ocean beach near the western edge of Deep Creek Conservation Park. You can walk 2 km to the beach from the Cobbler Hill carpark. Or if you have a four wheel drive vehicle you can drive down the steep track to the Blowhole Beach carpark. You can sometimes see dolphins in the surf and kangaroos nearby. The sandy beach is 200 m long and is in a steep valley. A creek crosses the beach and rocky headlands reach out at either end of the beach. Swimming can be hazardous because there is usually a strong rip which can sweep swimmers out to sea. You can also camp in the park and stay at cottages in the park and nearby. There is no camping at the beach. Check the website for maps, details and booking.

Cape Jervis SA

16 km away

Brown Beach — Image credit: SATC

Natural Attractions

Brown Beach

Brown Beach located on the north coast of Dudley Peninsula on Kangaroo Island. A beautiful sheltered and easily accessible beach suitable for families with children and great for swimming, snorkelling or fossicking for shells. Adjacent to a camping ground with BBQ, picnic area and public toilets with showers are available.

Brown Beach SA

16 km away

Fishery Beach road — Image credit: Yankalilla VIC

Natural Attractions

Fishery Beach

Fishery Beach is a small unpatrolled beach about 4km southeast of Cape Jervis and was named for the 19th century whale hunting that was based there. In 1862 it became a shipping port for the export of ore from the nearby Talisker Mine; and some ruins of the ore crusher building remain there today. The electricity substation marks the mainland end of Kangaroo Island's submarine power cable. The beach is a good shore fishing spot but unsuitable for swimming due to rocks, strong rips and tidal currents. On clear days Kangaroo Island can be seen from Fishery Beach.

Cape Jervis SA

17 km away

Views of the coast from Newland Head Conservation Park

Natural Attractions

Heysen Trail

Experience the Heysen Trail; one of the world's great walking trails and the longest in Australia. The 1,200 kilometre Heysen Trail extends from Cape Jervis on the south coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula to Parachilna Gorge in the Flinders Ranges. Named after the famous landscape artist Sir Hans Heysen, the trail boasts some of the state's most spectacular landscapes; passing through national parks, state forests, vineyards, orchards, acclaimed tourist destinations and historic towns that offer accommodation. Join the trail at any point along its journey and enjoy a section as a series of half-day walks or complete the entire trail as a 60 day hiking adventure. Inexperienced hikers should stick to the sections of the trail closer to Adelaide and the south coast. Further out from Adelaide the trail becomes more challenging; the terrain is harder and more isolated. Some of the most stunning sections of the Heysen Trail include: Fleurieu Peninsula: Deep Creek National Park, Tapanappa to Boat Harbor. Adelaide Hills: Mylor to Mount Lofty. Barossa Valley: Mount Crawford to Tanunda. Flinders Ranges: Wilpena Pound to Parachilna Gorge. Heysen Trail Northern guidebooks and maps are available from leading bushwalking and map shops, the RAA and park offices.

Cape Jervis SA

18 km away

Talisker Mine Ruins

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Talisker Mine Ruins

== UPDATE: this site is temporarily closed due to damage from the February 2026 bushfires == Talisker Mine was once the largest silver and lead mine in South Australia. The Talisker Mining Company began working July 1862. After the arrival of a shipload of Cornish Miners from Glenelg, six distinct lodes were located. Within one month, ore was dispatched to England for assaying and a start made with opening up the mine and building the nearby township of Silverton. The silver and lead was shipped from nearby Fishery Bay, where it was carried to the lighters moored in chest deep water for ferrying to the large ships. 36,000 bags of ore, weighing 1,600 tons, and 890 tons of ingots were carried in this way. The mine ruins illustrate typical mid-nineteenth century Cornish mining and ore processing techniques and are an important remnant of South Australia's heritage. The mine is located within Talisker Conservation Park and is listed on the Register of State Heritage Items. Today an interpretive trail through the mine ruins and bushland has been created. The walk takes about an hour for able walkers. Maps are available from the Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre.

Delamere SA

19 km away

Morgans Beach — Image credit: Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre

Natural Attractions

Morgans Beach

Morgan Beach is an unpatrolled sandy beach, nestled below 50 metre high cliffs of Permian Ice Age glacial debris. Explore the rocky reef at the southern end of the beach and enjoy a swim in the clear waters at the north end of the beach. The un-named access road to Morgan Beach begins in Cape Jervis, opposite Fleurieu Avenue. The road branches after a few hundred metres: the right branch goes to a spectacular clifftop lookout, and the left branch is a steep descent to the carpark by the beach. Four wheel drive vehicles are permitted on the beach but please check tides and weather conditions. Dogs are allowed on the beach however there are restrictions during daylight saving. Some of the boulders on the beach & reef were transported here by glaciers during the Permian ice Age. These boulders (and other nearby glacial features) attract geologists from all over the world.

Cape Jervis SA

19 km away

Island Beach

Natural Attractions

Island Beach

Island Beach overlooks Eastern Cove in Nepean Bay on the north-west coast of the Dudley Peninsula. Fringed by dense bushland and home to wallabies, kangaroos, and Rosenburg's Goannas. A range of birdlife, including pelicans and the endangered Hooded plover. Expansive sandy beach provides safe swimming. There is limited access to the beach for boat launching and retrieval.

Island Beach SA

21 km away

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