Kangaroo Island eco villas named among world’s top 10 sustainable stays

Oceanview Eco Villas has been named among the top ten hotels globally in Wanderlust Magazine’s WanderSleeps Awards 2026, recognised in the Eco-conscious Sleeps category for setting the benchmark in responsible travel.

For a small, family-owned South Australian business, this is a massive achievement.

“We were absolutely thrilled,” shared co-founder Tamsin Wendt. “It was an honour to be nominated in such strong company from across the globe, and placing in the top ten, particularly in a category recognising stays that set the standard for responsible travel, is extremely exciting. Responsible and regenerative luxury travel has always been a core element of the business, which we have considered across every element and stage, and earning that recognition means a lot to us.”

Image: Tourism Australia

Located on a spectacular coastal property, Oceanview Eco Villas delivers luxury without compromise. Here, sustainability is the foundation of everything they do.

“When starting the business, Tim and I always knew that sustainability would be a key element of our vision,” shared Tamsin. “The villas sit on a 500-acre property, with over 1km of north-facing coastline and private beach access.

“Kangaroo Island is such a spectacular and unique part of the world, it was important to us to create an experience that did not compromise on luxury, or regenerative and sustainable practices.”

The off-grid retreat operates entirely on solar power and rainwater, and its villas use passive solar architecture to minimise environmental impact. Every material, finish and product has been carefully curated, prioritising quality, local provenance and story.

The property is also a registered wildlife sanctuary, home to an abundance of native species. Since opening, the Wendt family has shifted away from farming and instead donated parcels of land for habitat regeneration, helping protect endangered flora and create critical habitat for the endangered Glossy Black Cockatoo.

“It has always been a priority for us to work to protect and preserve the natural environment on Kangaroo Island. It is such a privilege to be able to share such a beautiful part of the world with guests, and accordingly, it is a responsibility to invest in its protection and regeneration.”

That commitment to regenerative tourism has resonated strongly with travellers, who are increasingly seeking experiences that feel authentic, purposeful and deeply connected to place.

Image: Tourism Australia

Guests can enjoy locally sourced menus showcasing Kangaroo Island and South Australian produce, paired with a wine list that celebrates regional makers. Through the family’s Kangaroo Island Touring Company, visitors can also participate in bespoke luxury experiences, connecting directly with conservation projects and researchers working to protect the island’s unique ecosystems.

It’s this combination of luxury, storytelling and environmental stewardship that has made Oceanview Eco Villas a standout. And then, of course, there’s the setting.

With more than a kilometre of north-facing coastline, private beach access, and panoramic ocean views, the villas offer a kind of immersion in nature that’s increasingly rare.

“With the world getting increasingly busier, we prioritised designing the Villas and business model on the commodity of connection – we once had a guest describe the view from their bedroom window as ‘like watching kangaroo television’, and it is exactly that type of engagement that we wanted to integrate into each element of the villa design.”

As global demand for meaningful, responsible travel continues to grow, Oceanview Eco Villas is perfectly positioned at the forefront of the movement.

For Tamsin and her team, the recognition is both rewarding and motivating. “It has always been our vision to continue to lead the luxury hosted accommodation industry, with a commitment to luxury, personalised service, and environmental conservation, without compromise,” she said.

So if you’re looking for a world-class stay, that now ranks among the best, right here in South Australia, this is one you’ll want to add to your list.

Oceanview Eco Villas
Where: 31 Point Morrison Road, Nepean Bay, Kangaroo Island, SA 5223
For more information, click here.