American River

Known by locals as ‘The River’, Kangaroo Island’s American River is situated on the western shore of Eastern Cove, is surrounded by bushland, and boasts spectacular coastal views all the way to mainland Australia. Just a thirty-minute drive from Kingscote, American River is named for the American sealers that mistook the ocean inlet for a river back in 1803. The town overlooks the protected wetlands of Pelican Lagoon Conservation Park, a 397-hectare nature reserve quite popular with birdwatchers, kayakers, and boaters. Keen surfers might hop over to nearby Pennington Bay Beach for its natural beauty and famously powerful surf swell. There are several walking trails within the town; be sure to keep a keen eye for native fauna and birdlife, such as endangered red-tailed glossy black cockatoos, as well as kangaroos and wallabies.
Known as Kangaroo Island’s seafood capital, American River is home to fresh oysters, marron, green lip abalone, and King George whiting, among other sustainable local fish prepared fresh on site. A trip to the Oyster Farm Shop is highly recommended for seafood lovers for a taste of the freshest oysters on the island.