Granite Island (Nulcoowarra)

The basics

Whether you choose to walk or ride the traditional horse-drawn tram across the causeway to Granite Island, ocean views and wildlife sightings are near-guaranteed. On the island, follow the 40-minute Kaiki Walk along the coast, set sail on a whale- or dolphin-watching cruise, or rent a canoe or kayak to explore rocky bays that you can’t reach any other way. You can even swim and snorkel, go fishing from the rocks, or dock your boat on the island.

Things to know before you go

• Granite Island is one of the most visited attractions in Victor Harbor and is a must for wildlife lovers.

• There’s little shade on the island, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of water.

• Facilities on the island include a boat landing, restrooms, and picnic areas. There are no shops or cafés, so pack a picnic and bring everything you need with you.

• The island is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

How to get there

Granite Island is just off the coast of Victor Harbor, about 50 miles (80 kilometres) south of Adelaide or an about 1-hour drive. A footbridge links the island to the mainland, and it’s a short 10-minute walk across the island. Alternatively, horse-drawn trams depart for the island every 30 minutes and take about 10 minutes.

When to get there

You can visit the island at any time, though the causeway sometimes closes at night to protect the island’s wildlife. There’s no accommodation, so most visitors leave by sunset. Horse-drawn trams run daily between mid-morning and late afternoon. The best time to see wildlife is around sunrise and sunset, and whale-watching season runs from May through October.

Wildlife-watching on Granite Island

The wild bushlands, lichen-covered rocks, and windswept coastline of Granite Island provide a natural habitat for a variety of wildlife. Look out for seals lounging on the rocks, dolphins swimming along the coast, seabirds swooping overhead, and seasonal Southern right whales.