Australian Islands That Satisfy Your International Travel Bug

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While international travel remains a Post Covid daydream, there’s plenty of Australian islands that can make you feel like you’re overseas. Getting out of the city and escaping your life for a small break is exactly what we all need after lockdowns and quarantines. If it’s an idyllic Australian island destination that’s on your wishlist we’ve got you covered with 5 of Australia’s best islands.

Lord Howe Island

This heritage-listed Australian island paradise is located in the Tasman Sea just a two-hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane and was recently named one of National Geographic’s’ best destinations for 2021. Not only is Lord Howe Island an oasis for relaxation there’s still so much to do – hiking, scuba diving, fishing, snorkelling and even bird watching all at your fingertips. There’s a range of accommodation from luxury lodges, apartments and guesthouses but with a 400 tourist bed limit, it’s best to book flights and accommodation in advance.

Kangaroo Island

Accessed by ferry or by air South Australia’s Kangaroo Island is welcoming back visitors as it recovers from 2020’s devastating bushfires. Australia’s third-biggest island produces some of Australia’s finest gourmet pleasures including wine, spirits, olives, figs and honey and of course, heaps of seafood. If a food safari isn’t what you’re up for then there are plenty of other things to experience on Kangaroo Island. Crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming, diving, kayaking and surfing. On land, the bushwalks and walking tours are some of the best in the country. No matter how you want to experience the island there’s plenty of accommodation with 5-star retreats to camping spots and AirBnB’s.

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Fraser Island

Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island and is the perfect getaway from your busy life. Our top 3 things to do are relaxing at Lake McKenzie, float down Eli Creek or take in the grandeur of the rainforest at Central Station, our full Fraser Island Guide has all the info you need! The water between Fraser Island and Hervey Bay is one of the best viewing points during whale watching season. The easiest way to explore this Australian island is by 4WD which you can drive over or hire one out at Kingfisher Bay Resort. Speaking of there’s plenty of accommodation options for you to choose from camping, a holiday house or two resorts to choose from.

Wilson Island

A little Australian island roughly 80-kilometres east of Gladstone on the Great Barrier Reef, Wilson Island is one of the most untouched islands on one of the worlds natural wonders. So much so you can only reach it via Heron Island and depending on your preference you can get to Heron Island by sea or by air transfer. They’ve said it themselves “social distancing was already a way of life for them” as there’s a maximum of 15 guests allowed on the island at once. Sleep just metres from the sea with nine Reef Safari Tents for accommodation. There’s an onsite chef to whip up all meals, drinks and snacks included in the price of your stay.

Frankland Islands

The Frankland Islands are a group of five picturesque uninhabited islands in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park that is a short boat ride from Deeral, south of Cairns. Unfortunately, there are no facilities for an overnight stay but its the perfect place for a day trip! Spend the day snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking or just chilling out. These Australian islands are home to an array of birdlife and the surrounding waters are home to both an abundance of corals and marine life.