The Best Island Holidays in Australia

Dotted along Australia’s incredible coastline are some 8,000 islands of varying sizes and climates. From remote, windswept cliff tops in the southernmost states to the iconicwhite sand beaches and turquoise waters of Queensland, there are infinite experiences to be had on land and sea around Australia's coast.

QUEENSLAND

Lizard Island
Lizard Island is the most northern resort in tropical Queensland and is located directly on the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef, which stretches some 2,000km along the Queensland coastline. The private island offers total seclusion, accessed only by private charter from Cairns airport. This sense of exclusivity and blissful solitude is enhanced by luxury accommodation, exceptional service and a host of island activities including snorkeling, diving, sailing and bush walking.

Orpheus Island
Orpheus is a private island hideaway, located just 80km north of Townsville in Queensland’s north, accommodating just 28 guests. The island is surrounded white sand and the magical waters of the Great Barrier Reef, and is the epitome of idyllic island luxury. Access is either via a 30 minute helicopter journey from Townsville, or a 1.5 journey from Cairns. This is truly a fisherman’s paradise with the most sought after reef fish species in the world. Guests are encouraged to borrow the resort’s motorized dingys, grab a picnic hamper and discover the many pristine coves and reefs that fringe Orpheus.

Heron Island
For the underwater enthusiast, Heron Island is the ideal escape. The island is a natural coral cay 89kms off the coast of Queensland. The Great Barrier Reef, with a myriad of colourful coral and reef fish, is right on the doorstep. The crystal clear aquamarine waters surrounding the island shelter coral gardens and sea creatures of every shape and size. The private island resort also offers an array of possibilities for those who like to relax on the beach or enjoy the sanctity of the day spa.

Hamilton Island
One of Australia’s best known and loved islands, Hamilton Island, is the largest inhabited island of the beautiful Whitsundays in Queensland. Direct flights depart regularly from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Cairns. Luxury accommodation at the renowned qualia resort offers unparalleled comfort and decadence on the waters edge.

Hayman Island
Close by, Hayman Island is the most northerly of the Whitsunday islands, taking advantage of incredible views of the Great Barrier Reef and neighboring islands to the south. Access is via private vessel from Hamilton Island. Luxury resort, One&Only Hayman Island caters for every age and taste with numerous island activities including golf, water sports, hiking, tennis, squash and basketball.

Haggerstone Island
About 600 kilometres north of Cairns alongside the rugged Cape York Peninsula is the much-lauded island retreat, Haggerstone Island, where the Guesthouse caters to a small number of visitors.Guests will be awestruck by the marine life on Haggerstone. Exploring shipwrecks, beach combing for WWII artifacts, snorkelling and fishing are complemented by a superb cuisine featuring fresh local produce. The incredible remoteness of Haggerstone and the simplicity of island life ensures this is one of Australia’s most unforgettable experiences.

Lord Howe Island, New South Wales
Just a two-hour flight from Sydney, Lord Howe Island is a UNESCO World Heritage listed paradise, home to the world’s most southernmost coral reef. At just 11km long and 2km wide, this tiny island is home to a remarkable array of wildlife and is renowned for its pristine rainforests, beaches and marine environment. Luxury accommodation at Capella Lodge or Arajilla Retreat is the perfect complement to this island adventure.

LUXURY LORD HOWE ISLAND WALK & KAYAK ADVENTURE 6D5N, FULLY GUIDED

Satellite Island, Tasmania
In the heart of the D'Entrecasteaux Channel, south of Tasmania, lies a small island of breathtaking natural beauty. Exemplifying the dramatic scenery of Australia’s southern coastline, sheer sea cliffs drop into to crystal-clear waters below. Local bird and sea life is abundant on Satellite Island while, on land, numerous native mammals call the island home.

Until recently Satellite Island was completely inaccessible to the public. Now it can be accessed by ferry, helicopter or private boat and is available for exclusive use including all island accommodation - the Summer House and the Boathouse and the luxury bell tent.

Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Much of Kangaroo Island remains virtually untouched by human habitation and, as a result, exists as a true wildlife sanctuary where animals and birds reside in harmony with the native bushland. Kangaroo Island is home to kangaroos, wallabies, koalas and a variety of bird species, including the famous Cape Barren geese.

Alongside this wild and untamed wilderness, flourishes an exciting food and wine scene, with numerous artisan producers taking advantage of the rich supply of local ingredients, as well as luxury boutique accommodation in the form of the remarkable Southern Ocean Lodge and the Kangaroo Beach Lodges.

Kangaroo Island Tours

Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Western Australia
Located 2,750km northwest of Perth in Western Australia, the Cocos Keeling Islands are a group of coral islands that form two atolls. Only two of the 27 islands are inhabited, however all the islands are accessible and ideal for secluded snorkelling, world-class diving, excellent fishing and the adrenalin-rush of kite surfing.

Cocos Castaway offers stylish, ocean side, self-contained accommodation located on West Island. The exclusive complex provides a private and relaxed atmosphere with the magnificent Indian Ocean right at the back door.

Please contact us to bespoke your luxury island holiday in Australia. Email: travel@onlyluxe.com.au