American River was the birthplace of tourism on Kangaroo Island and has long been one of the island’s best-kept secrets. The wharf was home to some of the first industries on Kangaroo Island with salt, gypsum, and mallee wood being shipped to Port Adelaide. The wharf is in the town centre and is still a working wharf. Here you can view shipbuilding activities and try the delicious fresh oysters at KI Oysters. Visit one of the nearby cafes and restaurants and enjoy a peaceful bushwalk around the bay to see the native fauna and birdlife.
History of American River
Known by locals as ‘The River’, American River sits on the western shore of Eastern Cove and is named after the American sealers that stayed on this part of the island back in 1803. While the area was named ‘American River’ by explorer Matthew Flinders, it’s actually an ocean inlet, however, it boasts impressive coastline views.
Top 10 things to do at American River
Rebuild for Independence Group (RIG) Boathouse
The Rebuild for Independence Project is located at the RIG boathouse at American River and is run solely by volunteers. Stop by to see the original Schooner vessel being rebuilt and learn about the “Union” and “Independence”. You can find the boathouse at The Wharf, Tangara Drive and it’s open most days from 10:30am to 3pm.
KI Oysters
Listed as one of SeaLink’s top ten reasons to visit KI, a trip to KI Oysters in American River comes highly recommended. Showcasing Island aquaculture and sustainable seafood, you’ll be able to taste the freshest oysters renowned for their taste and quality.
Enjoy them fresh on-site in their stunning outdoor seating area. Join a shucking experience to learn how to open your own oysters straight from the source and browse their selection of fresh seafood available to purchase and take home. Open Monday to Friday 10am-5pm and weekends 10am- 4pm.
Interpretive Trail and ‘Red Tailed Glossies’
Take the interpretive trail around the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge which tells the tale of the flora and fauna located in this area, including a flock of the endangered Red Tailed Glossy Black Cockatoo that inhabits the Sheoak Trees around the property. You’ll see why this region is known for birdwatching.
Pelican Feeding
Every second morning (so as not to encourage daily binge fish eating by the birds), the pelicans are fed by the staff from the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge. Come and get some eyeball contact with the balmy air force. It happens around 9.00am at the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge for guests.
The Deck Cafe
Nestled alongside the Rebuild Independence Group (RIG) Boathouse, overlooking the beautiful American River bay and wharf, the Deck Café offers visitors to American River and locals alike a spot to sit and relax and absorb the serenity of Kangaroo Island’s waterways, birdlife, and boats. Enjoy some locally caught King George Whiting, fresh coffee, beer, and wine at this licensed venue after visiting the RIG Boathouse.
Flavours of Petite Provence
Located just before the American River turn off, you’ll find the Flavours of Petite Provence Farmgate. Stop by here to pick up some organically grown food and gourmet items from their store such as olive oils, fresh vegetables, jams, pickled foods and gift packs.
Boating and Fishing
Boating and fishing is one of the most popular activities in this area, due to the sheltered waters which are home to fantastic fishing grounds, especially for the prized Australian King George Whiting. The best way to explore them is with a local who’ll take you out in their boat to all the good spots. Local Kangaroo Island charters have many years of experience and offer full-day and half-day charters which usually include lunch, transfers, bait and tackle and fish cleaning. If you have your own boat, there is a boat ramp at the American River, too.
Another way to view the quiet waters of American River and Pelican Lagoon is to take your own or hire a kayak and travel to the reaches of the Bay into Eastern Cove and along to exclusive Island Beach. Stop for a swim or just bask on the white sands of this gorgeous beach.
Beach, Birds and Bush trail walk
This is a coastal walk of approx. 8 km, east from the Lodge along the water’s edge and through a little scrub to the old Cannery Works at Ballast Head. This was once the primary shipping port of Kangaroo Island. It’s not unusual to see kangaroos, wallabies and koalas on the land and then cast your eyes out to sea and see a pod of dolphins, and even the occasional whale! You’ll also see views over the KI Shellfish oyster farm from the walk.
Reflections Restaurant, Mercure KI Lodge
Offering an unforgettable dining experience, the award-winning Reflections Restaurant at the Mercure KI Lodge is a must-visit when staying in American River. Enjoy the best of the region’s finest meats, produce and wines, with impeccably presented dining. Sit on their alfresco patio or warm up with a drink inside by the fireplace.
KI TruThai Restaurant
On Thursday evenings make your way to the TruThai for a superb Thai feast and a very local KI experience. Each Thursday you’ll find their restaurant in Willowbrook with live music, a fully licensed bar and a great atmosphere. You’ll also see their mobile van getting around the island, especially at local events.
Nearby Attractions
Climb Prospect Hill
If you’re up for a challenge, head to the Prospect Hill Track for a walk up the case of 500 steps. You’ll marvel at the look out over the most narrow section of Kangaroo Island. Allow just over half an hour for your return walk.
Pennington Bay
This is Kangaroo Island’s premier surf beach, and has to be seen to be believed. American River to Pennington Bay is a 15-minute drive and you are basically going from one side of the island to the other as you traverse the narrowest part of the island! Ride the plank or simply marvel at the shifting forces of nature as the swell rolls in and out. Why not make an outing of it and take a picnic. If you’re staying nearby at the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge, they’ll even pack you a picnic and provide a beach umbrella!
Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery
Emu Ridge is a eucalyptus oil distillery, the only one of it's kind in Australia. The distillery is situated in a beautiful bushland setting and has been operating since 1991. Visitors to Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery have the opportunity to learn about the distillation process and witness the oil extraction firsthand. The distillery offers guided tours where knowledgeable staff members explain the history, benefits, and various uses of eucalyptus oil. Visitors can see the distillation equipment, learn about the different eucalyptus species, and even participate in the process by bottling their own eucalyptus oil.
Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery also features a great café where visitors can enjoy refreshments and light meals - including one of the best places to get breakfast on the island. Enjoy a local coffee, juice or cocktail to start your day, with their rehabilitated kangaroos often out on the back deck in close proximity.
Clifford's Honey Farm
Clifford's Honey Farm is a cherished family enterprise owned and operated by Dave and Jenny Clifford. This multigenerational business has been thriving for several decades.
The Clifford family manages both the honey production business and the farm gate shop. Visitors are welcome to explore the shop, which is open every day from 9am to 5pm. Additionally, they can discover the fascinating world of bees in the informative display room. Honey tasting experiences are also available, allowing guests to savor the distinctive flavors produced on the farm. A firm favourite of all visitors to the farmgate is Jenny's home-made honey icecream, a thick and creamy treat perfect for indulging in at any time of the day.
Where To Stay at American River
Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge
Situated in American River, the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge is set across from the coast, offering exceptional water views. It’s a bird lovers' paradise, surrounded in seven acres of natural bushland. Join the morning pelican feeding spectacle and walk around the property to spot the endangered Red Tailed Glossy Black Cockatoo.
Enjoy the large hotel swimming pool, and the many interpretive walking trails. With comfortable rooms, the Reflections Restaurant onsite, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the serenity of the island.
Check out the Mecure and other American River accommodation options and make your Kangaroo Island experience one to remember.
