Stokes Bay is in north-central Kangaroo Island, about 45 minutes west of Kingscote, the island's capital. Aside from the white sand beach and bluffs, the highlight is the natural rock pool, a protected lagoon ideal for wading with children. The Lathami Conservation Park, home to the Glossy Black Cockatoo and other endangered birds, is just south of Stokes Bay Beach. Some 4WD tours explore Stokes Bay and make the rounds at Seal Bay, Duck Lagoon, Pennington Bay, and other scenic areas on the island.
Campgrounds and cottage rentals are available near Stokes Bay Beach.
The beach is near Lathami Conservation Park and Paul’s Place Wildlife Refuge, home to kangaroos, alpacas, and koala bears.
With easy opportunities for wading and snorkeling, Stokes Bay Beach is considered one of the most family-friendly beaches in Australia.
Stokes Bay is about one hour from Kingscote and nearly 2 hours from the Penneshaw ferry terminal by car. Kangaroo Island has no public transportation, so travelers can bring their cars on ferries or rent cars, vans, and campervans on the island. Sealink ferries connect the mainland to the island from Cape Jarvis to Penneshaw, running up to 12 times a day each way during peak season. Booking tours with transportation included is another option.
Stokes Bay—and all of Kangaroo Island—is a year-round destination. The Australian summer from December to February is ideal for beach time and swimming in pleasantly warm waters, though locals generally say that autumn is the best time to visit, as these cooler months usher in wildflower season and good opportunities to spot Glossy Black Cockatoos and other endangered birds at Lathami Conservation Park.
Kangaroo Island is large and fairly remote. In addition to sorting out ferry rides, travelers have to consider how they’ll get around. Campervans are convenient and fun—and you can bring your own on the ferries or rent one near the ferry terminal in Penneshaw. Keep in mind, however, that there are a limited number of private caravan parks on the island—in Penneshaw, near Flinders Chase National Park, Kingscote, and a few other locations. Book ahead during the peak travel season.
