Kangaroo Island
Set beside the picturesque Cygnet River, the Kangaroo Island Racing Club is one of South Australia’s most celebrated country racing venues, with one of the largest membership bases in the state.
Each year begins with Racing at the Cygnet on 17 January 2026 - a relaxed picnic race day for the whole family to enjoy on our beautiful green lawns.
The highlight of the season is the iconic SeaLink Kangaroo Island Racing Carnival - featuring the Penneshaw Pub Kangaroo Island Cup - on Thursday 19 and Saturday 21 February, 2026. Attracting more than 3,000 racegoers, this two-day festival is the jewel of the island’s event calendar. With thrilling country racing, local wines, spirits and produce, and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s an experience that brings together the very best of Kangaroo Island.
About Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island has earned the reputation as one of Australia’s most picturesque holiday destinations. From sea-lion spotting to honey tasting and surfing in the sea or Little Sahara sand-dunes, there’s something for absolutely everyone on this idyllic island.
For more information on what to see and do on Kangaroo Island, visit southaustralia.com or tourkangarooisland.com.au for holiday inspiration.
Accommodation
With a wide variety of accommodation from glamping and cabins to self catering accommodation, bed and breakfasts, and high end luxury retreats, Kangaroo Island has something for everyone and every budget.
Click here for a range of options to suit you and your holiday plans.
Getting there
- By Air: A short 30 minute flight from Adelaide brings visitors to Kangaroo Island Airport (KGC). The airport is located 13 km from Kingscote. Airport shuttles to and from Kingscote and other locations on the Island are available. Qantas regularly fly to Kangaroo Island.
- By Ferry: SeaLink ferries operate from Cape Jervis on the mainland, to Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island, with regular departures daily. Travelling time is a comfortable 45 minutes to one hour and coach connections are available between Adelaide and Cape Jervis, and Penneshaw, American River and Kingscote. For more information, visit sealink.com.au
Getting around
From Kingscote:
During the February Cup Carnival, a free shuttle bus service will operate every 30 minutes opposite the Ozone Hotel, Commercial Street. This free bus service will commence from 11.30am on Thursday and from 10.30am on Saturday.
From Kingscote Airport:
Contact KI Transfers to arrange your airport transfer. bookings@kangarooislandtransfers.com.au
From Penneshaw and American River:
Peninsula Coaches operate shuttle service from Penneshaw Ferry terminal and stops on route to Kingscote. Departing at 10am from Penneshaw in the morning and departing racecourse at 5:30pm to return to Penneshaw. Bookings essential. 08 8821 2755
SeaLink offer transfers from Penneshaw. Bookings essential. 13 13 01
Kangaroo Island Coachlines are running a coach shuttle to and from Penneshaw and American River on race day! Don’t miss a moment, relax and have fun when you book your seat on their safe and comfortable coach. From $50pp. 08 7082 9607
Kangaroo Island Car Hire:
Budget Kangaroo Island 08 8553 3133
Seafront Connect Car Hire 0419 100 100
2026 Racing Carnival
2026 Racing Carnival Event Guide is now LIVE! Dive in an discover everything Kangaroo Island has to offer! Download the Guide.
Hospitality Options
Stowaway Kangaroo Island Fashion at the Races
Track Map
