10+ things you MUST KNOW before going to Remote KING ISLAND in Tasmania!
Growing up on remote and picturesque King Island in Tasmania was truly extraordinary. I didn’t fully appreciate just how special this place was until I left and saw it through fresh eyes. King Island holds so many unique little niches and quirks that set it apart from anywhere else I’ve ever been. Yes, the island comes with its challenges and obstacles, but there’s truly no place like it on earth. For tourists arriving fresh, these surprises can catch you off guard—so here are my personal tips and tricks, straight from a local, that you absolutely must know before visiting King Island.
1. The locals always wave.
When driving on King Island for the first time, you’ll probably chuckle when you pass a car and notice the other driver giving a casual little 1-finger wave. Every single driver—sometimes even passengers—does this subtle greeting to the next vehicle they meet. Most visitors brush it off as coincidence or someone they know, but it’s just classic King Island culture. Locals can instantly spot tourists by who doesn’t wave back!
2. There are snakes on King island.
Summer months, especially February, bring plenty of snake activity to the island. While I haven’t heard of anyone actually getting bitten, the local species—Tiger, Copperhead, and White-lip snakes—are all highly venomous. Whether you’re playing golf or taking a peaceful walk, always watch your step through long grass. And if your golf ball lands in the scrub? Leave it—it’s not worth the risk.
3. The weather is wildly unpredictable.
You could check the forecast 100 times a day, but King Island’s weather changes on a dime regardless of what the app says. A perfect sunny morning can flip into 100km/h winds, pounding rain, and single-digit temperatures by lunch. It’s not just normal—it’s classic King Island. Always pack layers and stay flexible!
4. Wildlife on the roads.
Like every remote Australian town, King Island’s roads come alive with wallabies and possums after dark. These nocturnal road ramblers are everywhere, so drive extra carefully, especially at dusk and dawn. If you’re heading to see the penguins at Grassy, give your car a quick check underneath before starting up—you never know what might be snoozing there.
5. The wind is constant.
Winter visitors need to brace for near-constant wind that makes anywhere else’s “breezy day” feel tame by comparison. King Island gusts hit with Roaring Forties force—you’ll get used to leaning into it, but first-timers should know to expect that wild island edge to every coastal view.
6. There is a small selection of restaurants.
With just 1,500 residents, King Island’s dining scene naturally stays small and focused. Most restaurants close Monday and Tuesday nights, plus kitchens typically shut around 8 PM sharp. Always check opening hours ahead so you don’t arrive to a dark signboard—planning saves hunger headaches!
7. The shop times are different!
Currie, the main town, has only two grocery stores, both running 7 AM to 6 PM. If you’re out exploring all day, stock up early. And yes, imported everything means prices run higher than mainland cities—just part of island life.
8. There is no public transport.
Getting around means renting from King Island Car Rentals, calling the Community Car service, or kindly asking locals for rides. Skip expectations of taxis or buses (except school runs and tours)—the airport definitely won’t have a rank waiting!
9. Telstra is the only network provider.
Optus and other networks? Forget service here. Telstra is your only reliable option. Locals joke you might catch a bar of signal dangling off Cape Wickham Lighthouse on a windy day—but don’t count on it!
10. There is limited accommodation.
Simple fix: book early, especially for summer or the massive Festival of King Island. Both locals and tourists flock back for the event—those who plan ahead get the best beachfront spots.
11. King Island Community Radio.
Despite the tiny population, locals cherish their local radio station at 100.5 FM, entirely volunteer-run with playlists showcasing new Australian talent. Shows like “Grandstand with Tam and Craig” and “Wots on the Rock” keep everyone connected with sports, news, and island gossip. Listen for their catchy slogan: “Let’s make waves together!”—it’s pure community magic.
12. Ask the locals!
King Islanders embody legendary Australian hospitality. Need directions, tips, or help? Anyone will go out of their way to assist with a smile. (And yes, that’s some cheeky self-promo for Yentl As Anything below!)
13. Look out for cows on the road!
This farming island means you’ll regularly encounter cows strolling along highways. Farmers own land across road boundaries and herd livestock casually—slow down, give way, and don’t panic. They know their routes perfectly; just follow their lead patiently.
Read more about King Island:
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Yentl and Avalon, your description of King Island is so on point! I really like reading it. It makes me smile because of all the little and special things this island offers.
Thank you so much, Jorg, for the comment and the kind words 🙂 Your website looks amazing!
The CD across bass strait with willpower
The stories of the jewels of Bass Strsit
Written and produced by a blowin who became locally loved .
Thanks, Will, for your comment!
Love the Island, but you did not mention another thing that people should know.
NO BUNNINGS ON THE ISLAND
Hi Max, thank you for your comment! There are indeed no Bunnings on the island! All your goods need to be imported!
I was a ‘blow-in’ myself for about 4 years and loved every minute. Hubby had a full-time contract there for 10 years and after several months in the KI cheese factory plus some time away for studies, I came back to nurse. A delightful little hospital and one of the most professional yet caring healthcare communities I’ve ever encountered.
My hot tip for those who love to regularly walk, is to get familiar with the Currie kelp track stretched alongside the marvellous Southern Ocean. There’s a great wander from Little Beach, past the Boat House, up around the bend under the Lighthouse hill, and then a picturesque trudge along the stony track beside the waves – with the golf course on your left – all the way to Netherby Rd. Follow that road back to Currie township and home again. I would do this regularly on a good day.
Hi Josephine, thank you for your comment! Yes, I did that same walk multiple times; it’s great! I might put it somewhere in a future list! 🙂
I was brought up on a soldier settlers farm on K.I. and lived there from 54/82.Couldn’t have wished to grow up anywhere else.Where did you take the photo of the coast,was it on the east coast?Your comments are spot on.
Hi Rick, thank you for your comment! Yes, the picture of the coast was definitely somewhere on the east coast!
I own King Island Green Ponds Guest House and Cottage and welcome anyone wanting to see our most beautiful island we call paradise. Please call me on mobile 0429831047 if your comming for work I also have TRADIES Accommodation so looking out for your trip of your life Cheers Sonia
Hey loved your spool. Been to KI twice magnificent spectacular amazing- A photographer paradise/golf cape wickham golf links No 1 public course in Australian with a surf beach in front top 25 in world & no 2 in Australia public/private! Have to mention Turkeys they are everywhere & this trip went to the King Island Brew house what a beautiful place with lovely young owners. Well done – A bucket list a must to Visit King Island
Thank you, Eileen, for your reaction. Happy to hear you enjoyed the island so much.
Thank you for every other informative blog. Where else could I
am getting that kind of info written in such a perfect approach?
I’ve a venture that I am simply now working on, and I have been on the
glance out for such info.
Welcome as always! Thank you for reading and reaching out 🙂
Wonderful blog! I found it while surfing around on Yahoo News.
Do you have any suggestions on how to get listed in Yahoo News?
I’ve been trying for a while but I never seem to get there!
Appreciate it!
Thank you for the kind words. Unfortunately, I can’t give any advice on how to get into the Yahoo Newsfeed. I don’t know how my post made it there. Good luck! 🙂
Lived on King 1972 thru 1975, my father worked for the Pmg as it was known then. My mother worked at the hospital with a wonderful woman named Audrey Graham amongst others. Loved my time there and hope to return at some point, and yes as kids we would ride horses to a lot of secluded beach’s rock pools etc. A absolute wonderland of a place.
Thank you for reaching out, Anthony! It seems that it is time for a re-visit indeed. 🙂
Very neat article. Really looking forward to reading more. I will read on…
Happy to read that! 🙂