Kangaroo Island is teeming with breathtaking sights and unforgettable experiences, but my heart is drawn to Emu Bay. In my previous October blog, I shared the elements of Emu Bay beach that capture my affection. However, there’s so much more to discover beyond the stunning 6 km stretch of sandy beach.
One of the simple pleasures of Emu Bay is the revamped boat ramp. If you’ve read “Our Story” on our website, you know our family shares a passion for fishing. This upgraded facility is a crucial feature for us, especially when planning a day out on the water. While you enjoy the luxury of our beachfront accommodation, Hamilton & Dune, don’t miss the chance to embark on a local fishing adventure with Emu Bay Fishing Charters. Under Sean’s expert guidance, you can explore the coast from the water and likely return with a fresh catch for dinner—right on your doorstep!
We also take full advantage of the Emu Bay jetty, which dates back to 1914 when it was used for loading grain onto ketches. Before that, produce was hauled by bullocks to waiting dinghies, a challenging task indeed! Today, the jetty serves mainly as a boarding point for charter boats and a hotspot for evening squid fishing. High tide turns it into a thrilling jumping spot for kids of all ages. In summer, it becomes the go-to place for thrill-seekers looking for fun.
Our family enjoys afternoons at the jetty and boat ramp, sharing laughs and checking out the boats’ catches (or lack thereof) as they return from the sea. Grab an ice-cold beer, join in the banter, and help feed the pelicans with any scraps. Younger kids can easily spend hours bird feeding, searching for fairy penguins in the bushes, or hunting for crabs and shells beneath the rocks—just like we used to do!
I’ve mentioned my love for walking along Emu Bay beach, but for a change of scenery or on cooler days, I enjoy exploring the coast in the opposite direction. Starting from Hamilton House on Hamilton Drive, head west past the jetty towards the last row of beachfront houses. Take a right down to the rocky beach where we used to hunt for cowrie shells. Navigate over smooth rocks, admiring the unique treacle colors, or opt for the easier route over the mounds of seaweed. After about 20 minutes, you’ll reach what we affectionately call “Jammos’ beach,” often a quiet spot since the talented Jammo is busy servicing boats. The swimming here is just as stunning, and if it's breezy at Emu Bay beach, you’ll find protection here. For the adventurous, continue until you reach the reef.
From late December to the end of March, dolphins become the main attraction at Emu Bay. Pods frequently cruise along the beach, and if you’re quick, you might even dash into the water to join them as they swim and play. Just last week, I witnessed them feeding on schools of salmon almost at my feet, leaving local fishermen torn between fishing and swimming alongside these magnificent creatures.
For the ultimate dolphin experience, book a tour with Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures. Andrew has been leading tours past the reef to an awe-inspiring dolphin nursery for years. Swimming in the crystal-clear, shallow waters with these gentle, intelligent mammals while wearing goggles is a bucket-list experience you won’t want to miss. Andrew ensures minimal disturbance to the dolphins while positioning you perfectly to catch the pod as they swim by. The warm water is a testament to why they choose this magical spot to nurse their young. This tour alone is a fantastic reason to choose Hamilton & Dune for your summer getaway.
Emu Bay offers a plethora of activities and experiences that create lasting memories. From fishing and jetty jumping to dolphin encounters, there's something for everyone. Stay tuned for more tips on exploring this beautiful part of Kangaroo Island!
