First time visiting Admirals Arch on Kangaroo Island, South Australia? This guide covers opening hours, entry fees, how to get there, what to expect — and nearby attractions.
Overview of Admirals Arch
Admirals Arch is a striking natural stone arch on the southwest coast of Kangaroo Island, sculpted over millennia by the Southern Ocean. The arch frames ocean views and dramatic cliffs, forming part of the coastal landscape within Flinders Chase National Park. Beneath the arch lies a rocky shore where visitors often spot a colony of seals lounging, swimming or playing in the surf.
The walk to Admirals Arch is short and accessible: a boardwalk leads from the car park down toward the headland, then stairs drop to viewing platforms near the arch itself. The path offers ocean views and chances to spot wildlife even before reaching the arch.
Nature lovers and photographers will appreciate the rugged coastline, seal colony and ocean panoramas. Meanwhile, families and visitors seeking an easy outdoor experience will find the walk manageable and rewarding, with minimal effort required to reach dramatic scenery and wildlife encounters.
Just beware of the smell. The seals are entertaining, but they frankly stink.
How to explore Kangaroo Island
There are several ways to tackle Kangaroo Island, including very long day trips from Adelaide. Two day tours are less rushed and let you see more of the island. Three day tours are even more comprehensive.
Alternatively, you can take the Kangaroo Island ferry from Cape Jervis. Once on the island, you can self drive (if you’ve brought your car), or take one of several tours. Most opt for a highlights day tour, but small group tours and Indigenous-guided tours are worth considering for a more distinctive experience.
You can also swim with dolphins, try a guided koala walk, go quad biking and take a half day tasting tour around food producers and distilleries.
Admirals Arch opening hours
Flinders Chase National Park, containing Admirals Arch, is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Admirals Arch entry fee
When I last checked in November 2025, there is no entry fee for Flinders Chase National Park.
Admirals Arch walk details
The track to Admirals Arch is approximately 800 metres return and takes around 15 minutes at a relaxed pace. The initial portion is a wide, level boardwalk, suitable for prams or wheelchairs, before descending a short flight of steps to viewing platforms by the arch.
Even if you do not descend the stairs, the boardwalk section alone offers striking coastal views and frequent sightings of seals on the rocks below — making the walk worthwhile for visitors with limited mobility.
Admirals Arch visitor facilities & practical advice
There is a car park at the start of the Admirals Arch walk, with public toilets nearby. It’s worth looking out for koalas here – I saw a mother and joey in a tree when I visited.
There are no shops or food outlets at Admirals Arch itself. Visitors should bring water, snacks and any essentials, especially since services within the national park are limited.
Because the arch sits on a coastal headland, weather conditions can be windy and conditions may be slippery when wet. It is wise to wear sturdy shoes and be cautious near cliff edges.
When to visit Admirals Arch and why it stands out
Admirals Arch is especially atmospheric during early morning or late afternoon, when light and shadows accentuate the rock formations and the ocean is often calmer. These times also tend to be quieter, offering a more peaceful experience.
Seal sightings are the main draw of Admirals Arch. The rocky shore below the arch is home to a colony of fur seals. With luck you may spot seals basking, swimming or playing in the surf — an experience that adds wildlife magic to the coastal scenery.
Nearby attractions to Admirals Arch
- Remarkable Rocks — dramatic granite boulders and coastal vistas, a short drive away.
- Cape du Couedic Lighthouse — historic lighthouse set against rugged coastline, near Admirals Arch.
- Weirs Cove — a rugged coastal cove offering shore-side scenery and ocean views.
- Park visitor centre at Flinders Chase — good for maps, information and planning further walks.
Admirals Arch visitor tips
Bring water and snacks with you as there are no food or drink services near Admirals Arch. The walk is short but surfaces may be rocky and exposed — wear sturdy shoes and take care near cliffs. Try visiting early in the morning or late afternoon for better light and quieter conditions. Respect wildlife: observe seals from a safe distance, avoid disturbing their resting or breeding areas, and follow signage. Leave no trace — take all rubbish away with you.
Check for park alerts or closures before visiting — heavy weather or strong winds may lead to temporary closure of coastal sites for safety.
Allow at least a couple of hours if you plan to combine Admirals Arch with other nearby attractions within Flinders Chase National Park. Also, factor in the time it takes to drive from accommodation in the north of the island.
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More South Australia travel
Other South Australia travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Swimming with sea lions in Baird Bay.
- Why you should book a Coorong kayaking cruise.
- Why I enjoyed the drive across the Nullarbor.
- Complete guide to visiting the South Australian Museum.
- Plan your visit to Adelaide Gaol.
