King Island self-drive itinerary planning isn’t about racing from one stop to the next, it’s about meandering slowly, windows down, itinerary scribbled in pencil on the back of a flyer. With quiet roads, wide open views, and plenty of space between stops, a self-drive trip is the best way to take it all in.
Whether you’ve only got a few days or you’re settling in for a longer stay, this guide offers two options: a three-day highlights loop and a slower five-day version with time to explore deeper. No rush, no crowds, just the island at your own pace.
Three Day King Island Self Drive Itinerary – A Highlights Loop for First-Time Visitors
A taste of everything – landscapes, food, stories and a little golf or nature on the side.
Day 1 – Coastal Landscapes and Natural Wonders
Morning: Arrive on King Island (flights arrive at King Island Airport Loorana). Pick up your hire car. Drive in to Currie and pick up food from the supermarket and picnic lunch. Head east to Naracoopa Beach and Jetty for a calm, scenic start. Walk the jetty, take in the coastal views and breathe in the salt air.
Midday: Visit the Calcified Forest– a short loop walk through one of the island’s strangest and most fascinating landscapes – Seal Rocks. Cataraqui – memorial.
Afternoon: Take your time heading north, stopping for photos or short walks as you go. Check in to your accommodation in the north or Currie region.
Overnight stays: Choose a coastal retreat near Naracoopa or Currie
Dinner options: Island Larder (Currie), King Island Hotel or a picnic with King Island Fresh supplies
Day 2 – Food, History and Local Colour
Morning: Start in Currie with coffee and pastries from the Bakehouse. Visit the King Island Historical Museum and learn about shipwrecks, settlers and stories from the island’s past. Climb the Currie Lighthouse for ocean views and a great photo opportunity.
Midday: Take a walk along the foreshore or enjoy a casual lunch at Wild Harvest (bookings recommended).
Afternoon: Take things slow and browse local shops. Wind down with a sunset at Porky’s Beach – one of the best spots to watch the day disappear.
Overnight stays: Stay another night in Currie or move further north
Dinner tip: If you’ve pre-ordered, enjoy a DIY dinner at The Boathouse with produce from local suppliers.
Day 3 – Golf or Nature (You Choose)
Option 1 – Golf Day
Tee off at Cape Wickham or Ocean Dunes, two of Australia’s most scenic and acclaimed golf courses. Grab lunch at the clubhouse. Drive the northern loop and finish with a quiet walk at Seal Rocks, Disappointment Bay or Copperhead.
Option 2 – Nature Day
Early birdwatching at Penny’s Lagoon Bird Hide. Walk part of the King Island Kelp Tracks or take a guided horse ride if operating. Enjoy a slower pace and revisit your favourite beach or lookout before departing
Fly out: Late afternoon or stay an extra night if your flight allows
Five Day King Island Road Trip – Slow Travel with Time to Explore
More space to explore, linger longer and lean into the quiet. If you’ve got the time, here’s how you can stretch the above itinerary into five slower, richer days:
Day 4 – Surf, Scenic Roads and Local Tastings
Drive out to Martha Lavinia Beach for the morning, even if you don’t surf, it’s spectacular
Take a detour through the northern farms and coastal routes
Visit a local farm gate (if open) or check out the Brewhouse or King Island Distillery for a tasting
Afternoon swim or walk at Naracoopa before returning inland
Overnight: Stay in the north or at a rural farm stay
Day 5 – A Slow Morning and a Relaxed Departure
A quiet morning – read, walk, or revisit a favourite spot
Grab lunch at Oleada Restaurant or the Island Larder
Pick up last-minute souvenirs (local cheese, honey, gin, crafts)
Return your hire car and fly out relaxed
Planning Notes for Your Self-Guided King Island Driving Route
Getting here:
Flights arrive via King Island Airport (Currie) or Grassy. Book early in peak seasons.
Car hire:
Essential for seeing the island. Book ahead and check pick-up options.
Accommodation:
The island offers everything from boutique coastal stays to farm retreats and golf lodges. See our Accommodation Guide for more options.
Food and supplies:
Stock up in Currie, and keep an eye on opening hours (especially Sundays and winter as things operate on ‘island time’). King Island Fresh can also pre-stock your stay.
Want the Map?
Download our suggested driving route or build your own with our interactive map. No matter how long you stay, there’s always one more beach, one more view, one more reason to return.
