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Beyond Australia’s mainland lies almost 10,000 more unmissable and unique isles. From Hayman Island’s laidback luxury to the secluded white sandy beaches of Louth Island, read on to discover our list of Australia’s best island escapes.
Hayman Island, Queensland
Offering direct access to the Great Barrier Reef, there’s playtime aplenty at Hayman Island, with opportunities for snorkelling, diving and private boat charters to dozens of Whitsunday islands. Whitehaven Beach, crowned #1 Best Beach in the World 2025 by Lonely Planet, is an hour away via ferry. At the five-star InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, dip into the southern hemisphere’s largest swimming pool, unwind at the tranquil Hayman Spa or savour extravagant seafood feasts at oceanfront onsite restaurant Pacific and Asian-Australian fusion at the poolside diner Bam Bam.
Magnetic Island, Queensland
Magnetic Island – ‘Maggie’ as it’s affectionately called by locals – is a tropical retreat just a 20-minute ferry ride from Townsville. Thanks to its extraordinary location in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the island offers some of Australia’s best snorkelling and scuba diving, with easy access to shipwrecks and the Museum of Underwater Art, the world’s largest underwater art structure. Book a local tour and explore the underwater worlds of Geoffrey Bay, Florence Bay, Arthur Bay and Alma Bay, where vibrant marine life thrives.
Above sea, more than two-thirds of the island is a protected national park and home to one of the country’s largest wild koala populations. Hike to the Forts Walk for sweeping views of the Coral Sea, discover hidden bays like Radical Bay or embrace the island’s quirky charm by cruising around in one of its famous topless Barbie cars.
Rottnest Island (Wadjemup), Western Australia
Just a short ferry ride or scenic flight from Perth, this car-free island escape is best explored by bicycle, allowing visitors to pedal through bushland to hidden beach nooks and breathtaking lookouts like Vlamingh Lookout, which offers 360-degree views. The best way to truly experience the island is with a stay at Discovery Resorts – Rottnest Island, an eco-friendly beachfront glamping resort nestled behind the dunes of the iconic Pinky Beach.
By day, spot the island’s resident quokkas – dubbed the world’s happiest animal – soak in the sun at pristine beaches, dive into vibrant snorkelling spots at The Basin and Little Salmon Bay and take in the laidback coastal charm. By night, return to your luxe safari-style accommodation and sleep (almost) under the stars.
Louth Island, Western Australia
Set in the Spencer Gulf, this rugged private island escape is home to just one eco-conscious retreat, offering a truly exclusive escape. Rumi on Louth – South Australia’s first-ever private, eco-luxury resort – blends the wild beauty of the Eyre Peninsula with the comforts of an ultra-luxe stay, with beachfront villas, gourmet local produce and uninterrupted sunset views.
Guests can indulge in world-class dining at Samphire, the island’s signature restaurant, awarded two Chef’s Hats in the Australian Good Food Guide 2025. Beyond culinary delights, Louth Island offers near-exclusive access to Carl Cove – one of South Australia’s most breathtaking beaches thanks to its dramatic backdrop of porcelain white sand bookended by rusty red cliffs.
Bruny Island, Tasmania
Just past Tasmania’s southeastern coast lies Bruny Island, a rugged wonderland where verdant pastures meet pristine coastlines, and gourmet cheese and oysters reign supreme. Sandwiched between D’Entrecasteaux Channel and the Tasman Sea, this island escape is a short ferry ride from the sleepy coastal town of Kettering. For a luxurious base before or after your island adventure, The Cove Kettering offers a tranquil waterfront retreat with stunning marina views and gourmet breakfasts, making it the perfect prelude to Bruny’s wild beauty.
Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Kangaroo Island – often called Australia’s answer to the Galapagos – is a haven for wildlife and wilderness lovers. Just 112 kilometers southwest of Adelaide, the island is famed for its untamed coastline, sprawling national parks and pristine beaches providing sanctuary to diverse native species, from sea lions basking on the sands of Seal Bay to echidnas foraging through Flinders Chase National Park.
For an unforgettable island escape, Southern Ocean Lodge offers world-class luxury with panoramic ocean views, conservation-focused experiences and a menu celebrating Kangaroo Island’s finest seasonal ingredients.
Phillip Island, Victoria
Best known for its nightly Penguin Parade, Phillip Island is a family favourite just two hours south of Melbourne. Meet cuddly natives at the Koala Conservation Centre, cruise alongside playful seals on a Wildlife Coast Cruise or join the crowds to watch hundreds of little penguins waddle ashore at sunset, returning to their burrows after a day at sea. Beyond its adorable residents, the island offers some of Australia’s best surf at Cape Woolamai, adrenaline-fuelled motorsports at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit and stunning coastal trails.
Tiwi Islands, Northern Territory
Just north of Darwin, the Tiwi Islands feel a world away. Known as the ‘Island of Smiles,’ this remote destination – comprised of two main islands (Bathurst and Melville) – is best known for off-the-beaten-path experiences. Join a guided tour led by the Tiwi People – renowned for their rich cultural traditions, storytelling and welcoming spirit – to visit local art centres to see intricate carvings and vibrant paintings, learn about traditional bush medicine or witness an exhilarating game of AFL during the Tiwi Islands Football League season.
Tiwi Island Retreat provides the perfect off-the-grid luxury experience, combining adventure with tranquillity. This beachfront haven offers cultural experiences, pristine fishing spots and unparalleled serenity, making it an unforgettable escape beyond Australia’s mainland.
K’gari (Fraser Island), Queensland
Immerse yourself in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonder, K’gari, the world’s largest sand island, just over five hours north of the Sunshine Coast. Explore rugged 4WD tracks, spot humpback whales (August–October), swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake McKenzie or float down Eli Creek’s gentle currents. For the ultimate island escape, stay at Kingfisher Bay Resort. Foodies will be spoiled for choice with six bush-inspired restaurants and bars to discover, while relaxation is around every corner with four lagoon-style pools onsite. Nestled amid pristine shorelines and picturesque bushland, this eco-resort offers a truly enchanting experience.
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Feature image: Whitehaven Beach, Queensland.
