Arrange a trip to Granite Island, a small island and recreation park that is home to unusual rock formations, a colony of penguins and other wildlife. Spend a few hours here and stay for an evening wildlife tour.
To get to the island, walk or take a horse-drawn tram ride across the wooden causeway that connects it to the mainland. Wheelchair users can get rides from the local taxi service.
Familiarize yourself with the history, geology and wildlife of your new surroundings with a stroll along the Kaiki Walk. This loop trail encircles the island for about 0.7 miles (1.1 kilometers) and is dotted with interpretive signs. These signs cover the island’s geology and the aboriginal myths associated with it.
Along the way you will come across huge orange lichen-covered boulders and fascinating rock formations, such as Umbrella Rock. During your hike, pause to enjoy the views toward Victor Harbor and Seal Island.
Bring your binoculars with you to try to spot whales. The best season to observe the large marine mammals is from June to October when southern right whales visit Encounter Bay. Sometimes the whales come quite close to the shore.
Go on a penguin or wildlife guided tour, which are held most evenings around dusk. Watch the little penguins, also known as fairy penguins, as they come ashore after searching for food in the sea. These are the smallest penguins in the world, growing to an average height of about 14 inches (35 centimeters). If you enjoy fishing, reel in your catch from the causeway or the jetty.
Granite Island is located just off the coast of Victor Harbor, which is about 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Adelaide. It can be accessed every day except Christmas Day and admission is free, although there are fees for the wildlife tours. For details, visit the official website of the Granite Island Recreation Park. The island's facilities include picnic areas and toilets.
