Nine Of Best Islands in Queensland: Your Guide to the Ultimate Holiday
What comes to your mind when you think about Queensland Coast? Is it paradise beaches, happy locals, and breathtaking islands? If so – you’re spot on. This is exactly what the Queensland coastline is like, only better.If you are planning to travel up Queensland’s coast, make sure you know where the best Queensland Islands are, so you can experience the most that the state has to offer.
From hidden lakes to crystal waters, unique marine life and unbelievable views, all Queensland Islands are special in their own unique way, catering for every kind of traveller. Regardless of whether you are looking for an adventure, a romantic getaway, some days to relax, or get close to nature, there is an island off Queensland’s coast just begging to be explored.
In terms of accommodation, most of them vary from luxury resorts, backpackers’ hostels, caravan parks, and secluded camping grounds.
Without further ado; let's go through the best islands along Queensland's coast to add to your itinerary today.
1. Whitsunday Island
Many people claim that Whitsunday Island is home to the most beautiful beach in the world, Whitehaven Beach, which makes this island a must-visit when you come to Queensland. An unbelievable environment is created by the white sand and blue shades of the water in this untouched island.
2. Keppel Island
Another one of the best islands in Queensland, Keppel Island can be accessed by ferry (30 minutes) from Yeppoon, halfway between Brisbane and Townsville. Home to 17 different beaches and crystal waters, Keppel Island is a great spot for snorkelling the Southern Great Barrier Reef, where you can easily spot turtles and dolphins in their natural habitat.
The most popular beaches are Shelvin Beach, Monkey Beach, Putney Beach, Wreck Beach and Butterfish Bay.
3. Magnetic Island
This tropical island paradise is one of the best Queensland islands to visit if you want to relax on palm-fringed beaches, get lost in ancient rainforests and discover a picturesque island town.
Spot one or more koalas while you explore one of the many amazing tracks with rewarding views you can find on Magnetic Island. The Hawkings Track (1.2 kilometres) offers amazing views across the island. If you are diving and snorkelling, don’t miss your chance to discover the underwater gem of SS Yongala and follow the Magnetic Island Snorkel Trail.
4. Moreton Island
Ngugi people call it by its real name, Mulugumpin, which means “the place of sandhills”. This destination is one of the best islands in Queensland for 4-wheel driving. A paradise with iconic sandhills, where you can watch one of the most beautiful sunrises in Australia.
Moreton Island is located just 75 minutes by ferry from Brisbane and boasts natural wonders like the Blue Lagoon and Champagne Pools. Tangalooma Wrecks is a dream destination for every kayaker, snorkeller and diver, as the ruins of 15 sunken ships create colourful and surreal scenery.
5. Hamilton Island
No conversation about the best islands in Queensland would be complete without Hamilton Island Hamilton Island is the jewel of the Whitsundays Islands and the favourite destination of locals. The natural beauty of the island attracts thousands of tourists who stay in the wonderful accommodation options this tropical haven has to offer.
Hamilton Island is not only one of the largest islands of the area but the perfect place to discover the Great Barrier Reef. August is probably the best time to visit Hamilton Island is, when Hamilton Island Race Week takes place. People from all parts of Australia come together to participate, watch, and enjoy the most important yachting event of the country.
6. Bedarra Island
Breathe in all the peace and quiet that only a private and remote paradise island like Bedarra Island can give you. Located between Cairns and the Whitsundays Islands, Bedarra has nothing to envy Hamilton Island or other beautiful attractions of the region.
With no roads, no cars, no touristic tours that arrive every day, and limited guests, this is the dreamy romantic getaway that you always wished for.
7. Fraser Island
Its original name is K’gari, which means “paradise” in the native Butchulla language, the original owners of the land. This magic land which can be accessed from Rainbow Beach and Harvey Bay is the largest sand island in the world and a real magnet for adventurers. Some of the most visited attractions are Lake McKenzie, Lake Wabby, Indian Head, Champagne Pools, and Maheno Shipwrecks, among other amazing places.
K’gari Fraser Island Adventures offer beachfront accommodation (glamping or cabin), 4WD Hire and small group tours that will take you on an unforgettable journey to all the secrets of this historic island and unique nature creations.
8. Hook Island
What makes this place so special is its secluded bays and snorkelling spots where marine life is abundant, colourful, and friendly. Manta Ray Bay, Luncheon Bay, and Butterfly Bay are just a few of them.
If you are thinking of sailing there and spend the night on the boat, there are plenty of anchorages like Stonehaven and Nara Inlet. If not, there are sheltered camping sites on the island that deserve to be visited. Find out which is the campground that suits you better here.
Known as one of the Great Eight of the Whitsundays Islands, George, a giant Maori Wrasse fish can be visited and gently photographed when you snorkel in Manta Ray Bay.
Wings Sailing Charters Whitsundays offer skippered and all-inclusive private charters to sail around the Whitsundays Islands and all the best islands in Queensland to get to know all these extraordinary places.
9. North Stradbroke Island
Better known as Straddie or Minjerribah for its traditional owners, the island is located 30 kilometres southeast of the centre of Brisbane and just 15- minutes boat ride from the coast.
One of the more unique destinations in the best islands in Queensland, here you’ll find friendly manta rays at Manta Bommie, one of the best dive sites in Australia. Apart from its famous attractions like Goompi Trail, Brown Lake and Amity Point, North Stradbroke Island is celebrated for its rich indigenous culture and laid-back sense of community.
