Kangaroo Island Weather in March

Average Temperatures in Kangaroo Island in March

In March, Kangaroo Island experiences pleasantly warm temperatures. Daytime highs typically range from 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F), breaking away from the intense heat of the peak summer months. As evening sets in, temperatures cool down to between 14°C and 18°C (57°F to 64°F), making the nights refreshingly mild.

As March progresses, you’ll notice a gradual cooling of temperatures, signalling the approach of autumn. The days remain warm, but the cooler nights hint at the change. This gradual cooling is perfect for those who prefer milder weather, as it provides a pleasant balance between warmth during the day and a slight chill in the evening. 

When packing for a trip to Kangaroo Island in March, layering is the key. Light, breathable clothing such as t-shirts, shorts and dresses are ideal for the warm daytime temperatures. As the temperatures drop in the evening, it’s a good idea to have a light jacket or cardigan on hand. 

Average temperatures on Kangaroo Island in March 

Sunshine Hours and Daylight in March

In March, Kangaroo Island enjoys an average of about 12 hours of daylight each day, as the island transitions from the longer days of summer to the slightly shorter days of autumn. At the beginning of autumn the sun rises around 7am and then sets again at 7pm, with the days getting shorter as the month goes on. There is still plenty of time to explore the island's many attractions.

UV levels on Kangaroo Island in March

In March, the average daily maximum UV index across Kangaroo Island still sits at 7, which is the same as in the summer months. This indicates a high health risk from unsafe exposure to ultraviolet radiation. While the days might feel milder, it’s just as important to protect yourself from the sun, especially during the peak hours of the day. Layer up and keep that hat on no matter how cool it might feel.

Average Rainfall on Kangaroo Island in March

As the island transitions from summer to autumn, March comes with a slight increase in rainfall compared to the drier summer months. While it is still considered a fairly dry month, the frequency of rain showers begins to rise as the island moves closer to the wetter autumn season. These showers are generally light, and they often occur in the late afternoon or evening.

On average, Kangaroo Island receives around 20 to 30 millimetres (0.8 to 1.2 inches) of rainfall in March. It’s enough to warrant packing an umbrella or raincoat for your day trips exploring, but not enough to change your plans altogether. Simply take shelter in a local cafe and enjoy the fresh landscape as you wait for the shower to pass.

Best Things to Do on Kangaroo Valley in March

March is a wonderful time to explore Kangaroo Island, as the warm weather and long daylight hours allow you to get out and about to enjoy a variety of activities. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, adventure, or simply relaxing and enjoying the island, there’s something for everyone. From unique wildlife encounters to hikes, swimming, and more, here are some of the best things to do on Kangaroo Island in March.

Penneshaw Penguin Centre

Love wildlife? Don’t miss the Penneshaw Penguin Centre where you can learn all about the adorable little fairy penguins that call Kangaroo Island home. They are the smallest species of penguin, and they return to the shore at dusk after a day of fishing at sea. At the Penneshaw Penguin Centre, you can join guided evening tours led by knowledgeable guides as you walk along the boardwalks and paths, for the chance to see these penguins as they waddle back from the sea. The centre’s commitment to conservation and education ensures that your experience is both enjoyable and respectful of the penguins’ natural habitat. 

Swimming with Wild Dolphins at Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures

If you’re after an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for years to come, book in to swim with wild dolphins at Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures. Take a ride onboard their custom-built dolphin swim jet boat, Energizer, where they will take you to the best spots to see the dolphins in the wild.

At the beginning of March, while the weather is still nice and warm, you might have the opportunity to swim with up to as many as 50 to 80 dolphins. Once the dolphins are spotted, you can slip into 1-3 metre deep water and swim alongside them.

There is also plenty of room to relax back on the boat and take plenty of photos as the dolphins swim and play around you. 

A Scenic Ferry Experience

Before the weather starts to cool down, March is the perfect time of year to take a ferry ride to and from Kangaroo Island. Many tourists are often too caught up in the destination to sit back and enjoy the ride, which offers plenty of stunning scenery right before your eyes. The ferry takes you across the waters of the Backstairs Passage, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the South Australian coastline and the island’s shores. You should also keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seabirds, and even whales along the way.

Learn about Bees at Clifford's Honey Farm

Bees are big business on Kangaroo Island (at least the honey is!) and Clifford's Honey Farm offers a glimpse into the world of bees and the art of beekeeping. As you explore the farm, you’ll learn about the unique Ligurian bees, known for their gentle nature and the pure, high-quality honey they produce. 

The farm provides tours where you can see the bees at work in glass hives, watch the honey extraction process, and gain insights into the role bees play in our ecosystem. After learning about the bees, you can sample a variety of honey products made on-site, including the farm’s famous honey ice cream. 

Enjoy a Drink or Dinner at Sunset Food & Wine

Sunset Food & Wine is a modern bistro that overlooks America Beach. It was the first restaurant on Kangaroo Island to be awarded one Chef Hat from the Australian Good Food Guide in 2017, so you know you’re going to sample some delicious food. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch, a romantic dinner, or just a glass of wine, you’re in for a treat.

As the name implies, the real magic happens as the sun begins to set. The restaurant’s outdoor terrace provides the perfect vantage point to watch the sun dip below the horizon, as all the gorgeous colours cast a glow on the water. It’s the perfect way to soak up some natural beauty at the end of a busy day.

March is a fantastic time to explore Kangaroo Island, with its mild temperatures and daylight hours that welcome in the autumn months. The island’s endless landscapes, unique wildlife, and vibrant local culture come alive in this season, offering plenty of opportunities for adventure, relaxation and discovery. Whether you’re swimming with dolphins, enjoying a scenic ferry ride, or dining with a view of a breathtaking sunset, March provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable trip.

Whether you’ve started planning your Kangaroo Island holiday or not, check out First Light Travel’s Kangaroo Island blog for any further information you might need. Or, you can contact FLT’s Kangaroo Island travel team for advice and guidance on how to design your own trip.