It’s no wonder Aussies (and tourists alike) are spoilt for choice with regards to exploring our multitude of stunning islands, when you consider that Australia’s coastline stretches an astonishing 36,000 kilometres and that Australia is the biggest country on the planet surrounded wholly by water.
Whether you are looking to explore the rugged, wild landscape of our many islands found at the southern end of the country, or the unspoilt, pristine, tropical islands that can be found up north, Australia is home to some of the most superb island destinations in the world. In this article, we introduce you to three unique and spectacular Australian island destinations that you cannot miss in your lifetime!
Bruny Island, Tasmania
Bruny Island is one of Tasmania’s most famous and popular islands thanks to its incredible cliff-top views, abundance of beautiful Australian wildlife and its unspoilt bush and coastal environments. A ferry crossing to reach Bruny Island takes just 20 minutes from the small waterside town of Kettering (located 35 minutes’ drive from Hobart, heading south).
Bruny Island is commonly thought to be two islands, thanks to its two main sections (termed North Bruny and South Bruny) joined by ‘The Neck’ – a long, slender stretch of land. Approximately 50km in length, what attracts most visitors to Bruny Island is the South Bruny National Park, which is home to spine-tingling and breathtaking views of the beaches and coastline below (in addition to its expansive kelp seaweed gardens beneath the ocean’s surface).
A number of magnificent (and entertaining!) animals call Bruny Island home, some of which are endangered and rare species. While hiking and adventuring through the island’s rugged landscape, you may be fortunate enough to spot white wallabies, echidnas, fur seals and elephant seals, as well as an array of spectacular birdlife.
Not only is Bruny Island famous for its incredible wildness, also on offer is an amazing range of delicious local produce. Numerous accommodation options are available on Bruny Island, from campsites to high-end luxury options.
Image Credit: australiantraveller.com
Fitzroy Island, Tropical Far North Queensland
Located right amongst the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, just off the coast of Cairns, you shall find the exquisitely beautiful and tropical Fitzroy Island. Covered 97% by lush rainforest vegetation and home to some of the country’s most breathtaking beaches (the island’s Nudey Beach was ranked number one in Australia’s Top 101 Beaches Awards for 2018), Fitzroy Island is easily accessible, simply by taking a 45-minute ride from Cairns Marina via Fast Cat.
Fitzroy Island is perfect for travellers looking to just kick back and relax as well as those looking for a ton of adventure. Of course, one of the island’s most popular activities and attractions is the incredible ability to snorkel straight off the island’s shore out onto the magical Great Barrier Reef!
You might also like to try your hand at snorkelling, take part in a 3-hour Guided Sea Kayaking Tour, cruise the waters of the island and admire the beauty below via a Glass Bottom Boat Tour, jump around and have a laugh on the island’s Giant Ocean Trampoline, hike one or more of the island’s stunning walking/hiking trails and pay a visit to the island’s Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre (via organised tour).
The island’s exclusive resort (Fitzroy Island Resort) offers an abundance of accommodation options, for all tastes and budgets. Choose from camping by the beach, all the way up to a Four Bedroom Penthouse – the choice is yours!
Rottnest Island, Western Australia
Famous for its (numerous!) outstanding beaches and its absolutely adorable quokkas is Rottnest Island, located 19km from the port city of Fremantle, Western Australia. Rottnest Island is home to a jaw-dropping 63 exquisite beaches, as well as 20 bays (see Fremantle’s best beaches). Rottnest Island is high on the bucket list of travellers not only from all around the country, but all around the world.
Preservation and sustainability are of extremely high importance on Rottnest Island, and its community works tirelessly to minimise any negative impact on both the land and ocean environments. Rottnest locals are very casual and welcoming, and a number of nature-based adventures are just waiting to be had!
Other than lazing around on one of the many spectacular beaches, you may also like to ride a bicycle around the island, take part in a walking tour, or try your hand at surfing and/or diving. Numerous accommodation options are available on the island, with something to suit all tastes and budgets.
