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Pack your crown and get ready for a whirlwind tour of Europe’s most enchanting castles, complete with places to stay nearby fit...
Looking to island-hop your way to paradise? Australia is home to some shore-stopping getaways that'll have you trading your desk for a deckchair in no time. Whether you're daydreaming of turquoise waters, lush rainforests, or foodie feasts by the beach, there's an Aussie island with your name written in the sand.
Pack your sunnies, hat, and sense of adventure as we dive into our top 10 Australian island escapes.
1. Kangaroo Island
It doesn’t take a leap of imagination to see that Kangaroo Island is hopping with wonders beyond its iconic Remarkable Rocks.
Make sure to set aside at least a whole day to explore the island, with it taking about an hour and a half to bounce from Penneshaw on the east coast to Flinders Chase in the wild west.
The natural attractions? They’re un-bee-lievably good! From striking geological marvels and sweeping vistas to an iconic wildlife lineup. Beyond the renowned kangaroos and seals that attracts all the visitors, Kangaroo Island is also buzzing with the world’s only purebred Ligurian bees.
GETTING THERE
2. Lord Howe Island
When it comes to bucket list destinations, Lord Howe Island takes the crown. This tropical paradise is a true Pacific wonderland.
Even Sir David Attenborough couldn’t resist singing its praises, calling it “so extraordinary it is almost unbelievable… few islands, surely, can be so accessible, so remarkable, yet so unspoilt.” High praise from the kind of natural wonders!
Find out more about the natural paradise that is Lord Howe Island.
GETTING THERE
3. Whitsunday Islands
Why settle for one island what you could take your pick of 74?
Fly direct to Hamilton Island and settle in for a few days (or a week – island time will have you staying longer). Dive into our top 10 things to do on Hamilton Island, or hop aboard a ferry for a dreamy escape to the cosy charm of Daydream Island.
If you’re visiting with the no shoes, no worries vibes; no trip to the Whitsundays is complete without sinking your toes into the pristine sands of Whitehaven Beach.
If you’re looking to make memories on cloud nine, take to the skies for a flight over Heart Reef – you won’t mind the splurge after the view steals your heart.
GETTING THERE
4. Fitzroy Island
Queensland is living the island dream with tropical treasures dotting the coastline like jewels on the crown of the Great Barrier Reef.
If you’re making your way up this golden coast to Tropical North Queensland, Fitzroy Island should be topping your itinerary. Whether you’re trekking through lush rainforests or snorkelling in warm crystal-clear waters to meet the locals (aka Nemo and friends), this island is packed with picture-perfect scenes from rainforest to reef.
Fitzroy Island isn’t just a pretty face, it is also home to a Turtle Rehabilitation Centre and coral nurseries. If eco-tourism is on your cards this year, Fitzroy Island is your destination.
GETTING THERE
5. Orpheus Island
Tucked away in the Great Barrier Reef, Orpheus Island is a secluded slice of paradise that will feel like your own private escape.
With just a handful of guests at any time on the one and only resort (or any accommodation for that matter) of the island, it’s the kind of place where tranquillity isn’t just a promise – it’s a guarantee.
Surrounded by coral reefs bustling with marine life and fringed by an almost empty beach, Orpheus is a dream for snorkelers, kayakers, or anyone who loves their holidays served with a side of exclusive experiences.
Whether you’re feasting on fresh seafood by the water or enjoying a sunset cruise included in one of the many glamorous stay packages, this island is the definition of laid-back luxury.
GETTING THERE
6. Rottnest Island
What’s better than an island escape? An island full of adorable quokkas, of course!
While it may be these native marsupials that give this destination its claim to fame, Rottnest Island is a destination for the bucket list within itself with white beaches and sparkling blue waters making it postcard perfection.
How to get to this haven of small fluffy creatures and crystal waters? Only a quick ferry ride from Perth or Fremantle and you’ll be discovering the best of the west coast.
GETTING THERE
7. Magnetic Island
Back in sunny Queensland, just off the coast of Townsville, lies an island overflowing with magnetic charm – literally. Known as Yunbenun by its Traditional Owners, Magnetic Island got its English name from Captain James Cook, who felt pulled in by its allure while sailing by in 1770, saying the granite boulders interfered with his ship’s compass.
This island is a natural masterpiece, with vast national parks, abundant wildlife, and secluded bays framed by dramatic boulders swaying palms. If you’re looking for a side of history with your scenic stay, take a hike on the Forts Walk where you’ll climb hillside trails to WWII fortifications and be rewarded with 360-degree views.
GETTING THERE
8. K'gari (formerly Fraser Island)
Closer to Brisbane lies the World Heritage-listed K'gari – the world’s largest sand island.
Unsurprisingly for the biggest island, K’gari is home to some of Queensland’s most stunning sand, alongside enchanting forests, freshwater lakes, and views that look like they belong in a gallery.
Time your trip from July to October and witness the magic of a humpback whale migration to add an extra splash of splendour to your stay.
GETTING THERE
9. Tiwi Islands
The Tiwi Islands, affectionately dubbed the “Islands of Smiles,” offer a vibrant escape just a short flight from Darwin.
This sandy slice of paradise encapsulates rich First Nations culture, coastal scenery, and world-class fishing. Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional art, cast a line into the salty waters, or simply soak up the sun on pristine beaches.
The Tiwi Islands consist of two larger islands, Melville Island and Bathurst Island, in addition to several smaller islands. Make Bathurst Island your base with Tiwi Island Retreat adding a luxurious twist to your barefoot escape.
GETTING THERE
10. Bruny Island
Foodies – bon voyage and bon appetite, this one’s for you! Bruny Island is the destination for any travellers with cheese, wine, and oysters on their holiday shopping list.
Just a short ferry ride from Tasmania’s mainland, this island is a feast for both your eyes and your tastebuds with coastal cliffs, abundant local wildlife like fur seals and fairy penguins, and most importantly, award-winning local produce.
Don’t forget to bring your camera along with your appetite as you indulge in a gourmet tasting tour and chew with a view of some of the best scenes Tasmania has to offer. Stop in at picture-perfect lookouts in between visiting local producers of Tassie’s tastes along the way.
GETTING THERE
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