Destination guides > Australia > South Australia > Kangaroo Island > Kingscote
Kingscote
Kingscote is Kangaroo Island’s largest town and also South Australia’s oldest European settlement. It has the tourist infrastructure of cafés and restaurants and it’s a good base for further island-exploration, but the town itself isn’t anything special. After its establishment in 1836 it was suggested that Kingscote could be the state capital of South Australia, but because of the island’s insufficient resources Adelaide was considered a better alternative. There are only about 1500 residents in Kingscote, but it is the main centre on the island, and you’ll need to come here if you need an ATM or supermarket.
Practical information
National Parks & Wildlife Office
39 Dauncey Street, Kingscote
Tel (08) 8553 2381
Website www.parks.sa.gov.au
Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
Hostel accommodation
Kangaroo Island Central Hostel
19 Murray Street, Kingscote
Tel (08) 8553 2787
Sightseeing, museums & tourist attractions
Hope Cottage Museum
This small museum is housed in one of the three original cottages built in 1856. Its exhibits include a collection of farm machinery plus displays relating to local history.
Centenary Avenue, Kingscote
Tel (08) 8553 2656
Website www.nationaltrustsa.org.au/properties/kingscote_hope_cottage.htm
Admission $5
Open Jan 10am-4pm daily; Feb-Jul 1pm-4pm daily; Aug Sat 1pm-4pm; Sep-Dec 1pm-4pm daily
Kangaroo Island Marine Centre
This small aquarium is home to a variety of South Australian marine life, but the main attraction is tours to the nearby penguin colony.
The Wharf, Kingscote
Tel (08) 8553 3112
Website www.kimarinecentre.com.au
Open Jan 8.15pm; Feb-Mar 9pm; Apr-Oct 7pm; Nov 8pm; Dec 8.15pm
Tours Jan 8.45pm, 9.45pm; Feb-Mar 8.30pm, 9.30pm; Apr-Oct 7.30pm, 8.30pm; Nov 8.30pm, 9.30pm; Dec 8.45pm, 9.45pm
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