[8] The locality's boundaries were created in May 2002 which includes both the former government town of Vivonne and the Harriet River Shack Site, was given the “long established name” which is also derived from the adjoining bay.

Two rivers, the Harriet and the Eleanor, flow throughout the locality to discharge into the bay.

Facilities associated with the settlement include a general store located on the South Coast Road, an outdoor education facility operated by the Sealink Travel Group and a camping ground operated by the Kangaroo Island Council.

[12] The 2007 fires resulted in the evacuation of residents after South Australian Country Fire Service determined that the area was difficult to defend and the destruction of one dwelling, with acting state premier, Kevin Foley criticising residents for not adequately clearing vegetation around their homes.

[13] Vivonne Bay is located within the federal division of Mayo, the state electoral district of Mawson and the local government area of the Kangaroo Island Council.