If you’ve done any sort of research into Kangaroo Island – or been lucky enough to visit – you’ll know that there are certain things that are essential for any first-timer’s itinerary.
Located roughly 110 kilometres across the sea from Adelaide, Australia’s third-largest island boasts no fewer than 19 National and Conservation Parks and five Wilderness Protection Areas. This is a place of enormous natural beauty and abundant wildlife – don’t-miss spots include the Kelly Hill Caves, Remarkable Rocks, Seal Bay, Admirals Arch, Flinders Chase National Park and the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park in Seddon.
And then, of course, there’s the fact that Kangaroo island has endless pristine beaches along its 500 kilometres of coastline. One such beach is Stokes Bay. Located on the north coast of Kangaroo Island, about an hour’s drive from the largest town, Kingscote, it’s one of Australia’s most beautiful hidden beaches.
Access to the beach is via a gap in the rocks near the car park just down the road from the open-air, licensed Rockpool Café. This natural rock tunnel is sometimes referred to as ‘The Secret Tunnel’. If you didn’t know it was there, you might be compelled to move on, thinking that the area is just all rocks. But trust us, you’ll want to stick around.
Take the easy, slightly uneven trail through the rock tunnel (a bit of head-ducking might be required, but this short hike should be do-able for most people) and you’ll soon emerge onto a gorgeous stretch of soft white sand lapped by calm, clear water.
The thrill of making your way to a hidden beach via a rock tunnel is undeniable, and the beauty of the sandy beach will take your breath away. It’s often said to be the best on the island. Part of it is protected from the surf by a natural barrier of rocks, making it safe and perfect for even the most timid swimmer, while the sheltered inlet beyond is ideal for surfing, boogie boarding, snorkelling or fishing.
There are interesting rock formations to explore at one end of the beach, while birdwatchers could get lucky and see anything from ospreys, sea-eagles, pelicans and herons, to hooded plovers, honeyeaters, blue wrens, firetail finches and white-fronted chats.
While you’re in the area, you can also check out Stokes Bay Bush Garden, a three-hectare garden showcasing 150 types of native flowers and plants plus 750 other species.
There’s also the Lathami Conservation Park, a little park located about 1.5 kilometres southeast of Stokes Bay. It’s dedicated to the Glossy Black Cockatoo, a beautiful bird that can only be found on Kangaroo Island.
Read more: Why travellers love Kangaroo Island