Cruise Arrivals

Penneshaw is home to one of Kangaroo Island’s safest beaches for swimming and snorkelling, with calm waters, abundant marine life and excellent beachcombing along the shoreline. Keep an eye out for the local pod of dolphins, often seen playing in the bay. Fishing is also a favourite pastime here, whether from the sand or the nearby rocks.

At the eastern end of the beach, you’ll find Frenchman’s Rock, where a plaque commemorates the bicentenary of Nicolas Baudin’s 1803 circumnavigation of Kangaroo Island.

There are plenty of walks throughout the township, offering the chance to spot native wildlife including wallabies, kangaroos, Rosenberg’s goannas, glossy black cockatoos and echidnas. Pause quietly and you may find they are just as curious about you.

Penneshaw is also rich in history. Visit the local museum to discover stories of early island life, then wander to the hilltop cemetery, where many remarkable local characters rest overlooking the town and sea.

Looking for something a bit different?

• Challenge yourself to a round of Mini Golf at the Seafront Hotel
• Looking for a longer drive - head to the local 9-hole golf course
• Grab a rod and some bait from the fuel station, and see what you can catch!

• Getting around: There is no public transport, taxi or Uber service on Kangaroo Island. If you wish to visit another region of the island, transfers should be pre-booked in advance.
• Day tours: Are limited and strongly recommended to be booked prior to arrival.
• Local businesses: Some businesses, attractions and dining venues operate seasonally or may have variable trading hours on cruise ship days. We recommend checking opening times on arrival and booking ahead where possible.
• Mobile coverage and Wi-Fi may vary in some areas outside Penneshaw. Download maps or information in advance where possible.
• Payment options: Most businesses accept card payments, but carrying a small amount of cash can be helpful.
  
• Biosecurity: Please do not feed wildlife or bring food into natural areas unless permitted. Help us protect the island’s environment.
  
• Time awareness: Please allow plenty of time to return to your ship before final boarding.
  
• Road safety: If hiring a vehicle, remember Kangaroo Island roads can be narrow and wildlife is active, especially dawn and dusk.
  
• Accessibility: Access conditions vary between locations. Check directly with operators if you have mobility requirements.
  
• Weather ready: Conditions can change quickly, so bring sun protection, water and a light jacket.

While walking or hiking around Penneshaw, keep an eye out for some of the island’s most memorable locals, its wildlife. From quiet bush tracks to coastal lookouts, there is always something to spot if you take your time. Look beneath shrubs and low branches, scan the treetops, and don’t forget to watch the water’s edge. The more still and observant you are, the more likely you are to be rewarded with a special encounter.

For the best chance of seeing kangaroos and their smaller companions, the wallabies, head to the Sculpture Trail or the Ironstone Hill Hike, where they are often spotted grazing amongst the bush.

Species you may see:

• Wallaby
• Kangaroo Island Kangaroo
• Glossy Black Cockatoo
• Rosenberg Goanna
• Cormorants
• Little Penguins
• Bottlenose Dolphin
• Southern Right Whales (May to October)