Granite Island Recreation Park

Granite Island Recreation Park is a much-loved destination just off the coast of Victor Harbor, about 85 km south of Adelaide. The island – only about 1.5 km in circumference – is famous for its giant lichen-covered granite boulders, picturesque views, and its colony of little penguins. You can reach Granite Island via a 630-metre long causeway from the Victor Harbor foreshore, either on foot or by riding the historic horse-drawn tram that operates daily (where Clydesdale horses pull vintage trams across the causeway – a unique throwback to the 19th century). Once on the island, a 2.9 km Kaiki Walk trail loops around the shoreline, offering stunning panoramas of Encounter Bay, the mainland, and offshore islands. Along the way, interpretive signs share the island’s history and geology. You’ll see the iconic orange-burnished granite formations, sculpted by wind and waves, and perhaps spot seabirds like silver gulls, Pacific gulls, and cormorants nesting on the rocky points.

Granite Island’s little penguins (also known as fairy penguins) are a major drawcard. By day, these small penguins are out at sea feeding, but at dusk they return to their burrows on the island. Guided penguin tours in the evening (seasonally available) let visitors observe them waddling ashore and learn about their ecology. In recent years the penguin population has declined and is carefully monitored – if you visit at night on your own, use a red light and keep distance to avoid disturbing them. During daylight, you might also spot fur seals or dolphins in surrounding waters, and in winter months the occasional southern right whale offshore.

Facilities: As a recreation park focused on conservation, Granite Island has fairly minimal facilities, but enough for a comfortable visit. Near the causeway landing there is a penguin information centre and a small kiosk/café (open seasonally) where you can grab ice cream, snacks or souvenirs. Picnic tables and benches are provided around this area, taking advantage of ocean views (no BBQs are on the island). There are public toilets near the kiosk. The island has several lookouts and art installations, including the dramatic Umbrella Rock formation and a creative sculpture trail that has seen various artworks on display. There is no playground or dedicated shade structures – the island is largely open terrain with low vegetation (so bring a hat and sunscreen on hot days). Also note, no dogs or bikes are allowed on the island to protect wildlife and for pedestrian safety. Entry to the island is free and it’s open at all times, but if walking at night, be cautious as lighting is limited.

Granite Island has cultural significance as well – its Ramindjeri name is Nulcoowarra. It was also an early whaling station site in the 1800s. Today, it’s one of the most accessible ways to experience a piece of coastal wilderness. The loop trail takes you past Swift’s Lookout (a great whale-spotting point in winter) and Cape Willoughby Light (a small navigational light, not to be confused with the larger lighthouse of the same name on Kangaroo Island). For many, a visit to Granite Island is not complete without riding the charming horse tram and taking photographs alongside the charismatic boulders tinged with orange lichen. With crashing waves, fresh sea air, and the novelty of crossing by horse tram, Granite Island Recreation Park makes for a delightful half-day adventure, especially for families visiting Victor Harbor.