There are 8222 Australian Islands, some are ridiculously famous, some you may never have heard of. Here, we are going to pay homage to some of the best islands of Australia.
Best Islands of Australia
1. Lord Howe Island
Most people think of visiting the Galapagos Islands for unique wildlife and outstanding beauty but Australia can more than rival them, in the form of Lord Howe Island, located 600km off the coast of Sydney. This world heritage listed island offers remote, unspoilt beaches and bush walks. And the chance to just meander into the ocean to snorkel in the world’s most southerly coral reef. You’ll be snorkelling amongst unique marine life and gorgeous, elegant sea turtles. Visit during winter when you can enjoy warm sunshine during the day and sit by an open fire at night. Perfect, especially with a glass of red wine.
2. Fraser Island
Another world heritage listed island is Fraser Island, the famous backpackers haunt. The endless stretches of white sandy beaches and crystal clear water is where backpackers visit paradise on a budget. It is also the only place in the world where the rainforest and sand dunes live together in harmony. Four wheel driving and a spot of fishing are the two essential activities here. With so many tours to choose from at such cheap prices, this island is not to be missed.
3. Philip Island
Besides Melbourne, in comparison to the rest of Australia Victoria gets little mention, so it’s only fair to acknowledge that they do in fact have a pretty impressive Island to call their own, and one that is really easy to visit. Philip Island, situated in Western Port Bay, is where backpackers, or any visitor, can see penguins. Australia isn’t really known for its penguins which makes this island in Victoria very special. It is also the home of the Australian Motor Grand Prix so well worth a visit.
*Please note that taking pictures of the penguin parade on Phillip Island is not allowed. The picture of penguins in this article is provided by Bunyip Tours..
4. Whitsunday islands
There are numerous beautiful islands within the Whitsundays to visit, here are some of the best…
Daydream Island
has to be mentioned because its name makes it sound like heaven. It’s a tiny island which, along with six others, makes up the Molle group of islands – part of the Whitsunday Islands. Daydream Island is reported to be a must-visit destination for those who enjoy taking to the seas. It is also the home to a unique outdoor aquarium as well as being the perfect spot for sea-kayaking, scuba-diving and all things water related. Daydream Island is not really a backpacker destination, even though it is just a few minutes boat ride from Airlie Beach, as the resort is really rather pleasant but if you are backpacking and decide to get married whilst doing it, look no further than Daydream Island. I am even tempted to book just on the off chance that I get proposed to in the next six months.
Hook Island
is the perfect destination for snorkelling, diving and other water adventures. What makes this island different from many others in this group is how unexplored it is by tourists, which makes it an untouched paradise perfect for campers and those who want to explore the unbeaten path. As mentioned, being in the Great Barrier Reef paints the underwater world here with colourful corals and tropical fish, which you can see for yourself at Maureen’s Cove and Luncheon Bay, while if you want to explore the dry land, walk The Ngaro Cultural Site to see Aboriginal rock art.
Hamilton Island
also in the Whitsundays needs a mention here, every famous person that visits the Whitsunday Islands seems to visit it.
Whitsunday Island
is famous for Whitehaven Beach, which can often be found on lists of the top 10 beaches in the world! You can take a one-day trip to see the iconic purity of the water and the incredible, sparkly white sand that makes this beach so well-known!
Want to visit the Whitsundays? Check out this Guide to The Whitsundays
5. Abrolhos Islands
If by some miracle you manage to see all the beauty that Western Australia has to offer its visitors you can always leave the mainland and head to the Abrolhos Islands. There are 120 islands in total, divided into three groups and although you can’t stay on the islands they are located only 60km of the coast of Geraldton, Western Australia, so day trips are a must, or if you really want to impress, a helicopter ride over the islands. The Abrolhos Islands are a marine life haven so for dolphin and whale spotting it’s an incredible location. They are also home to over 90 different species of bird and even ticks the historical box as the Batavia wreck lies on the ocean floor of the Wallabi group of Islands.
6. Tasmania
Let’s be honest, Tasmania is worthy of a mention as it is arguably the most famous Australian island and any Island that takes that much mockery and abuse deserves a little recognition. And it’s stunningly beautiful to visit.
Tasman Island
located just off the south-eastern coast of Tasmania, is another amazing Australian Island worth the trip. While it’s a humble 1.2 square km big, it represents an important breeding site for several bird species, such as the fairy prion. Moreover, the isolated lighthouse by the island’s cliff provides a spectacular sight at sunrise or sunset.
Bruny Island
Speaking of Tasmania’s endless beauties, Bruny Island is a true gem down by its southern coast that mustn’t escape your attention. Actually consisting of a North and a South island that are connected by “The Neck”, this piece of land is a bit off the beaten track, but it only means it’s truly an unspoiled little haven that has vivid wildlife. If you’re an animal lover, you might want to catch a glimpse of the seals, fairy penguins and other fauna that inhabit the coasts. You can explore the land on one of the many bushwalks, while you can marvel at the beautiful coastline by taking a cruise. In addition, what a lot of people don’t know is that the island offers amazing, authentic local food and wine, which are must-tries if you decide to visit Bruny.
Want to properly explore Tasmania? Check out the best Tasmania walking tracks.
The list of Australian Islands to visit is endless but it’s true that each one is special and unique. Sadly, there are just too many to see them all. What’s your favourite Australian Island?
Written with contributions from Nina Simons – Nina is a lifestyle blogger, yoga aficionado and a travel enthusiast with a distinctive taste for home decor. She’s passionate about learning new things and sharing meaningful ideas. In her free time, she loves to design clothes and furniture. If you wanna see what she’s up to you can find her on twitter
