Awe-inspiring landscapes, wander along the Town Walk, and encounter wildlife in their natural habitats.
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Day one
Pennington Bay
Pennington Bay sits on the southern coastline of Kangaroo Island.
It is a stunning bay that is famous for its surfing due to the powerful swells that roll in. Caution should be taken when swimming as the waves can be rough.
The landscape of Pennington Bay is stunning, with stunning bush land and wild life.
Just two kilometres off the main Hog Bay Road.Prospect Hill
Matthew Flinders climbed Prospect Hill when navigating the North Coast of Kangaroo Island to determine his bearings in 1802.
Today, visitors can climb this steep sand hill via 500 steps to see beauitful panoramic views of Pelican Lagoon and Pennington Bay.
The Prospect Hill Stairs and lookout were upgraded in 2018/2019 , constructed using stainless steel fittings and fibre reinforced polymer stairs and structural members.Rebuild Independence Project
The Rebuild Independence Project is a volunteer group that is re-creating the first vessel ever built in South Australia - the 45ft United States Schooner "Independence." The original Schooner was built on the banks of an inlet, where now stands the town of American River. She was built by American sealers from Stonington in Connecticut, USA, in 1803, who sailed here in their Brig "Union".
The vessel is being built in the RIG Boathouse, which is at the entrance to the American River Wharf. Visit us and learn about the "Union" and "Independence". Discover their association with the great explorers Nicolas Baudin and Matthew Flinders.
The vessel is being built entirely by voluntary labour and we estimate that we will need another three to five years to complete. Once finished visitors will be able to climb aboard and go for a short sail around the beautiful Eastern Cove and learn how these old sailing vessels were handled.
Looking for refreshments? The adjoining licensed water front Deck Cafe, with ample parking, looks out over the anchorage. While away the time over a delicious lunch or coffee and watch the many birds, and maybe our resident seal or dolphin.Kangaroo Island Oysters
KI Oysters is a family-owned and operated oyster farming business situated in the picturesque fishing village of American River on Kangaroo Island. Their oysters are cultivated sustainably within the island's pristine waters, guaranteeing exceptional taste and freshness.
Committed to excellence, KI Oysters seamlessly blends traditional farming techniques with innovative practices, resulting in a premium product that authentically reflects the unique flavors of their local environment.
The farm offers both freshly shucked and whole shell oysters at their convenient Blue Oyster farm gate shop.American River Gallery and Arts Centre
This small and beautiful Gallery at American River is nestled into a landscaped spot overlooking the peaceful waters of American River, in reality a tidal inlet harboring pelicans and a host of native birdlife that patrons can look over as they browse the artworks on display. Artists local and island-wide exhibit at the Gallery and visitors from all over the island and the world come to admire the exceptional quality of their work. Monthly art and craft workshops are popular as are quarterly exhibitions.Discover the American River Town Walk
Welcome to the beautiful town perched on the shores of the American River Inlet and Pelican Lagoon. Explore the fascinating history, engaging stories, meet locals, hear about conservation successes, find out about the local seafood and wildlife and discover early explorers.Enjoy fantastic Kangaroo Island food and beverages, honour our pioneers, hear some tales of the sea, and what it takes to build a ship.
All this in an enjoyable walk in two parts. The northern section is a 7 km return walk which includes the more challenging Fish Cannery Trail, an optional extension of the township walk. The southern section is an easier 7.5 km return walk and incorporates the Independence Trail. -
That's a wrap
Discover the wonders of American River, Kangaroo Island. Ascend Prospect Hill, hike the Town Walk or explore maritime heritage at the wharf. Immerse yourself in nature and history on this relaxing day of exploration.
