Summer Is Looking Delicious on Kangaroo Island: Your Guide to What’s New
If you’re planning a summer escape to Kangaroo Island, you’ve chosen the perfect moment. Sun-soaked days, stunning beaches, relaxed vibes and the best part, new ways to experience the taste of Kangaroo Island.
Discover Summer 2025/26’s must-do dining, wine and travel experiences .
From coastal pop-ups and fine dining to chilled wine bars and generous SA Tourism voucher programs, this is shaping up to be one of the most delicious summers the island has seen.
Dine for less this Summer with South Australian Tourism Commission Vouchers
The South Australian Tourism Commission has relaunched two major incentive programs to help visitors experience more of regional South Australia, including Kangaroo Island.
Coast is Calling Vouchers
If you’re lucky enough to snag a voucher, you can receive:
- $100 off experiences (min. $100 spend)
- $100–$500 off accommodation, depending on the voucher tier
- Travel dates through summer and early autumn, perfect for planning a holiday that includes beaches, wildlife encounters, fine dining and wine tasting.
These vouchers book out fast, so if you’re planning to visit Kangaroo Island, keep an eye on release dates and be ready.
How to use your Coast is Calling voucher at The Islander Estate Vineyards
The Islander Estate Vineyards is offering three different premium food and wine experiences for voucher holders:
- Flagship Tasting & Sparkling Experience: Our signature premium tasting experience for two, plus a bottle of Petiyante, our stunning sparkling Chardonnay/Pinot Noir to take away. Use your $100 experience voucher and pay nothing.
- Gourmet on the Deck: Our Flagship Tasting experience for two, plus a delicious platter of artisan cheese, authentic charcuterie and Kangaroo Island produce to enjoy on the deck. Use your Coast Is Calling $100 experience voucher and pay just $10 per couple.
- Have Your Wine And Drink It Too: Our signature tasting experience, gourmet platter to enjoy, PLUS six bottles of wine from our varietal range to take away. Just $200 per couple after redeeming your $100 experience voucher.
Dining Cashback Program
The South Australian Tourism Commission Dining Cashback program rewards you for dining out at participating restaurants and cellar doors with $50 back on your dining spend.
Make the most of your Dining Cashback Voucher at The Islander Estate Vineyards:
Book in at our Tasting Room for a Gourmet on the Deck experience via our website, just $110 per couple (claim $50 cashback, so you pay only $60 per couple). Book this relaxed premium food-and-wine experience, and indulge in a hosted Flagship Tasting experience for two people. Then enjoy the best seasonal produce with sweeping views over Cygnet River, with an artisan cheese, charcuterie and local produce platter.
New and Not-To-Miss Dining Experiences on Kangaroo Island
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Kangaroo Island or a regular ‘islander’, there are some great new venues to discover and iconic spots to visit again.
Kangaroo Island Providore
Kangaroo Island Providore at Kingscote Airport is a celebration of the island’s rich food culture, bringing together locally made gourmet products under one roof. Known for championing small producers, it offers everything from artisan pantry staples to handmade treats, showcasing the flavours and craftsmanship that make Kangaroo Island one of Australia’s most loved food destinations. It’s a go-to stop for visitors looking for fantastic coffee and pastries, take-away handmade lunches, catering or an authentic taste of the island to take home.
Tirage on Kangaroo Island Wine Bar, Kingscote
The newest wine bar on Kangaroo Island, created by Jack Ingram (of hatted Sunset Food & Wine restaurant), Tirage has quickly become a favourite for locals and visitors seeking:
- A refined but chill atmosphere
- Seasonal share-style dishes
- Excellent South Australian wines
- Friendly, elevated service
It’s the perfect stop after exploring the north coast or before dinner in Kingscote.
The Fig Tree Restaurant & La Baracca – Snelling Beach
One of Kangaroo Island’s most iconic dining locations is back with a brand new pop up venture.
The Fig Tree Restaurant: Dine beneath the sweeping canopy of a century-old fig tree overlooking Snelling Beach. Expect:
- A three-hour long-table feast
- Mediterranean-inspired flavours
- A magical atmosphere like nowhere else
A must-do for food lovers and one of the most unique outdoor restaurants in Australia.
Introducing: La Baracca: A brand-new addition for summer — a wood-fired Italian-Australian grill pop-up in the old shearing shed above Snelling Beach. Think:
🔥 Smoky, shareable meats
🍋 Aperitivo hour
🍹 Cocktails
🎶 Post-beach party energy
An easy walk from Snelling Beach, and the perfect sunset session.
Samphire Restaurant, American River
If you haven’t experienced Samphire Restaurant at American River, make it a must-do dining venue for this summer, This intimate space offers:
- Seven-course degustation focused on the best Kangaroo Island seafood, meats, and produce
- Optional wine pairing featuring The Islander Estate Vineyard wines
- Floor-to-ceiling stunning views across American River to Island Beach and beyond
- Thoughtfully crafted dishes in an intimate setting.
A standout KI dining experience for couples, special occasions, or visitors seeking a fine dining highlight.
Let’s Go Again: Returning Favourites for Summer 2025/26
Some of last year’s favourites are back — and still essential stops for your Kangaroo Island itinerary.
Pick & Shovel Bar, Kingscote: Opened in winter 2024, this cosy bar is Kingscote’s new go-to spot for:
- Excellent wine (including The Islander Estate Vineyard range)
- Curated whiskey & craft beer
- Cocktails in a relaxed setting
- Local cheese and charcuterie
Open daily from 4pm until late, right in the centre of Kingscote.
Mooncake at Kangaroo Island Source, Penneshaw: Set on the hill above Penneshaw with sweeping coastal views, Mooncake returns this summer with:
- Modern Asian small plates & feasts
- Inventive cocktails
- Laid-back, beach-holiday vibes
- A perfect pre-ferry stop or sunset dining experience
A great option for weekend travellers staying on the island’s east end.
Plan Your Kangaroo Island Summer
With more dining options, new wine destinations, and great-value vouchers, there’s never been a better time to visit.
Top tips for planning your holiday:
- Book early — especially The Fig Tree, Samphire, and island accommodation.
- Check ferry availability — summer sessions fill quickly.
- Consider wildlife-safe driving times — KI roads are safest before dusk.
- Add wine tasting to your itinerary — especially at The Islander Estate Vineyards.
Experience Kangaroo Island’s Most Awarded Wines
Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, make time to explore The Islander Estate’s Tasting Room — the island’s premium wine experience, crafted by world-renowned Bordeaux winemaker Jacques Lurton.
Book your summer tasting or Gourmet on the Deck below.
