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Escape to the Isles: Australia’s Best Island Retreats

Many first-time visitors to Australia may not know that the country is home to a long list of beautiful islands. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of a city vacation, here are some of the best to visit.

Lord Howe Island

Found off the coast of NSW, Lord Howe Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with wildlife and natural wonders. Whether it be the incredible beaches, the imposing mountains, or the crystal clear water that makes sealife spotting a breeze, Lord Howe has it all.

While it may be fairly popular with locals and tourists alike, it is still incredibly easy to find a secluded spot to relax the day away, and a few nights in the Capella Lodge should most certainly be on the cards.

Kangaroo Island

Often described as Australia’s Galapagos, Kangaroo Island is a very special island found off the coast of South Australia. One of the island’s biggest draw cards is, of course, the kangaroos. With over 65,000 of them calling the island home, they aren’t the only residents. You can also find koalas, sea lions, seals, glossy-back cockatoos, fairy penguins, and echidnas.

The island is also a great place to enjoy incredibly fresh seafood, their unique ligurian Kangaroo Island honey, and award winning beers, ciders, along with gins and liquors from Kangaroo Island Spirits. And along with some top luxury lodges you can also find some great glamping getaways.

Remarkable Rocks, Kangaroo Island, image Amanda Woods

King Island

Tasmania is already one of the most gorgeous corners of the world, but King Island steps it up a notch. With unimaginable natural beauty, the island is also a foodie’s dream, packed with delicious food and fresh ingredients, including seafood, cheese, and beer.

It is also incredibly easy to live like royalty, with the Kittawa Lodge providing unmatched coastline views, spectacular rooms, and even a private chef to prepare your meals.

Tiwi Islands

A short, 30-minute flight from Darwin will land you on the Tiwi Islands. This hidden gem is barely known by the majority of Australians, yet the gorgeous landscapes and sandy beaches have everything you need for an idyllic island getaway.

You can also immerse yourself in the culture of the Tiwi people, who have lived on these islands for over 40,000 years. Don’t forget to pack your swimmers, and for an off grid escape in a pristine marine sanctuary, book a stay at the Tiwi Islands Retreat.

Enjoy an off grid stay at Tiwi Island Retreat, image Tourism NT/Tourism Australia

Horn Island

If you want a true escape, and to almost live off the grid, then Horn Island is for you. Found off the coast of Cairns, Horn Island is brilliant for avid fishermen, as the clear water is packed with sea life.

You can also take a ferry or bus tour to Thursday Islands, and immerse yourself in the history of the island, which ranges from military, to maritime, and the pearling industry that once thrived here.

The Whitsundays

One of the gems of the Great Barrier Reef, The Whitsundays are home to crystal clear waters, soft white sand and 74 islands to explore.

The name of the game here is to spend the day relaxing on the beach or taking a boat out to snorkel in the reef and discover the creatures that call this natural wonder home.

Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island, or Rotto as it is affectionately known, can be found just by taking a short ferry ride from Perth. Clear blue water, rocky outcrops, and those smiling world famous quokkas are all awaiting you here, and it is one of the best spots for a family beach vacation.

As well as luxury stays including Samphire Rottnest there are plenty of camping sites to choose from, as well as over 60 beaches to explore. There are no private cars here, but embracing the slow pace and exploring on foot or on a bicycle is far more enjoyable than you may think.

Samphire Rottnest Island
Experience barefoot beachfront luxury at Samphire Rottnest Island

K’Gari

Formerly known as Fraser Island, K’Gari has remained as close to untouched as you could ask for. Life is simple here, with long, coast car rides and swimming the day away being the order of business.

Found 6 hours North of Brisbane, the best time to visit is during migration season, which is between August and October. This will allow you to spot the countless Humpback whales passing by, or take a K’Gari Great Walk, which will certainly bring you closer to the nature around you.

Credit for the beautiful Lord Howe image at the top of this story goes to Dylan Shaw.

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