Best Islands in Australia: Jaw-Dropping Vacation Spots
Australia is fringed by more than 8,000 islands, each of them unique and filled with unbelievable wildlife! That’s a whole lot of beautiful islands to choose from, so our Australia specialists have curated this list of the best ones to explore on your next trip.
Whether you’re looking to explore or completely relax, we are sure that one of these great islands will fit your fancy. Here are our 7 favorite islands of Australia:
Hamilton Island
Surround yourself with the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef on Hamilton Island. This tropical paradise features sandy white beaches and stunning ocean views around every turn. There are many great hotels to choose from on Hamilton Island, from family-friendly hotels to luxurious adults-only resorts like qualia. In addition to exploring the Great Barrier Reef, you can drive around the island on a golf buggy (there are no cars), relax on the beach, or take a quick hike up to One Tree Hill.
Aerial view of Hamilton Island. Image: Tourism Whitsundays
K-gari
K’gari is perfect for explorers who want to get off the grid. Flying in from the Queensland capital of Brisbane, your small plane lands right on the beach, and your adventure begins! K’gari offers a plethora of activities to choose from, like hiking the dunes, exploring the shipwreck of Maheno, watching the migration of humpback whales, or exploring the rainforest filled with unique wildlife. You can visit K’gari on a day trip or stay a little longer at the Kingfisher Bay Resort.
The world-renowned sandy beaches of K’gari. Image: Tourism Queensland
Lizard Island
The Great Barrier Reef has hundreds of gorgeous islands and coral atolls, some of which are home to luxury resorts. Lizard Island is well known for its clear waters and luscious greenery adorning the sandy beaches. The resort offers an exceptional “barefoot luxury” experience amidst some of the most stunning scenery in Australia. Lounge on private beaches, take a helicopter excursion over the Great Barrier Reef, spend a day island hopping, or simply soak up the views from a private plunge pool on your outdoor terrace.
The spectacular setting of Lizard Island. Image: Lizard Island Resort
Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island is an ecological haven for native Australian wildlife. Kangaroos, koalas, penguins, echidnas, and bird life all call this island home. Here, you can walk among a colony of endangered sea lions or spot a sleepy koala in the trees. Don’t forget to take in the breathtaking scenery of the island with its rugged cliffs, sheltered bays, native bushlands, and rolling farmland. From wildlife adventures and coastal activities to food and wine and historical guided walks, Kangaroo Island has something for everyone!
Native Kangaroos hopping around on Kangaroo Island. Image: Tourism South Australia
Hayman Island
Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Hayman Island is the most northerly of the Whitsunday Islands. The Whitsundays have long been internationally recognized for some of the world’s most beautiful stretches of tropical coastline. Hayman Island is a private island resort that’s perfect for family travel, with luxurious and elegant accommodations, including expansive pools, lush gardens, and pristine white sand beaches. If you are wanting a more adventure-packed vacation, Hayman also offers activities like snorkeling, diving, excursions by seaplane, nature hikes, and bush walks.
The beautiful Hayman Island by InterContinental resort
Tasmania
Visiting Tasmania is a one-of-a-kind experience full of history, natural beauty, and delicious wine. Tasmania is still a wild place; more than a fifth of the island is wilderness and is designated as a World Heritage site, so it’s the perfect place for a wildlife tour!
Tasmania was settled by a rough assortment of convicts, miners, and whalers who’ve left traces of their history at scenic sites around the island. While visiting Tassie, you can explore the forests, cliffs, mountains, and white sand bays. If you head east, you’ll find Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay, where you can kayak, swim, or scuba dive right off the sandy shores. You’ll also find a plethora of hiking and nature cruises.
A relaxing cruise on Wineglass Bay. Image: Tourism Tasmania
Rottnest Island
Located off the western coast near Perth, Rottnest Island makes a great day trip off the beaten tourist track! Enjoy bicycling around the quaint towns or snorkeling in the beautiful coral gardens just offshore. And, of course, you can’t leave Rottnest Island without getting a quokka selfie!
An adorable quokka on Rottnest Island. Image: Tourism Western Australia
Top Australian Islands for Every Type of Traveler
From tropical reef escapes to remote wildlife havens, the best Australian islands offer something for every traveler. Whether you’re looking for luxury, family fun, rugged adventure, or romance, these destinations each provide a one-of-a-kind experience worth the journey. Australia’s diverse islands make it easy to tailor a vacation to your travel style.
Family-Friendly Activities and Attractions
Australian islands offer a perfect blend of exploration and ease for families. Fraser Island, also known as K’gari, is ideal for kids and adults alike. Picture 4WD adventures across sandy tracks, freshwater lake swims, and guided rainforest walks. Hamilton Island is another favorite, with its safe beaches, golf buggy transportation, and wildlife park where kids can meet koalas and kangaroos.
Whitsunday Islands are also a great choice for multi-generational vacations. Stay in resorts with kid-friendly amenities or explore the Great Barrier Reef together on a day cruise. With a wide range of activities, from beach days to snorkeling, these islands make for truly memorable Australian island vacations.
Adventure and Exploration
Thrill-seekers will find plenty of adventure activities on Australian islands. The Great Barrier Reef islands are top picks for snorkeling and diving, offering a vibrant world of coral gardens and marine life. Fraser Island adds rugged appeal with hiking trails, perched lakes, and towering sand dunes.
For wildlife lovers, Kangaroo Island stands out with its remarkable biodiversity. Here, you can walk among endangered sea lions, spot echidnas on coastal trails, or even join nocturnal wildlife tours. Tasmania’s offshore islands also offer exceptional hikes and kayaking routes surrounded by pristine wilderness and native animals.
Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Islands
Travelers seeking a quieter experience should consider hidden gems in Australian islands like Lord Howe Island. With just 400 visitors allowed at a time, this unique Australian island offers untouched beauty, crystal-clear lagoons, and world-class snorkeling at Ned’s Beach.
You’ll also find off-the-beaten-path luxury on islands like Bedarra and Wilson Island. These secluded hideaways are ideal for those looking to avoid crowds while still enjoying refined service and nature-driven adventures. They’re perfect for Australian island-hopping itineraries that balance well-known spots with peaceful retreats.
Romantic Getaways on Australian Islands
Few destinations compare to Australia’s islands for romance. Lizard Island and Hamilton Island offer luxurious resorts with spa treatments, private beaches, and dining under the stars—perfect for honeymoons or couple’s escapes.
For a mix of wildlife and romance, consider Kangaroo Island. Boutique lodges and eco-retreats offer quiet luxury and coastal views. Travelers can explore the island’s scenic cliffs and secret beaches by day, then return to gourmet meals and wine by night. Down Under Endeavours partners with Exceptional Kangaroo Island to offer exclusive access to tailored couple experiences that blend romance, nature, and culinary delights.
Whether you’re after a relaxing Australian island escape or an adventurous getaway, these islands rank among the top Australian islands to visit. From laid-back luxury to wild landscapes, Australia’s islands invite you to discover your perfect paradise.
Ready to begin planning your trip to the islands of Australia? Browse our Australian travel packages, or call us at 888-229-0082 to start planning the adventure of a lifetime!