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Extremely popular Daydream Island is just north of Long Island and across the Molle Channel from the mainland. It’s a small, lushly gardened island dominated by the 296-room Daydream Island Resort and Spa (www.daydreamisland.com). Previously known as West Molle Island, Daydream was renamed in the 1930s by a yachtsman who bought everything in sight, then renamed the island after his yacht.

Relatively flat, the low peak of the island contains a small but dense tropical jungle inhabited by parrots and tiny sunbirds, accessed via a short walking track. The resort manages to squeeze in something for everyone, with the obligatory lagoon pools, open-air restaurants, mini-golf and water sport activities all included in the tariff. However, it does have two unique attractions that make it stand out from the crowd: kids and the young at heart are attracted to the vast outdoor aquarium containing a kaleidoscope of fish and coral (a great alternative to donning a snorkel); and pampered ladies head straight to the Rejuvenation Spa that specialises in, naturally, marine-based spa products. Treatment rooms are tucked far from the buzzing resort overlooking the azure sea.

Nearby South Molle has undulating grasslands alternating with pockets of lush rainforests cascading down into secluded bays and fringing reefs. The island is virtually joined to Mid Molle by a tidal causeway, offering low tide reef exploring. There are five camping spots on South and North Molle, as well as tiny Planton and Denman Islands nearby, offering true castaway experiences.

Opening this March is the somewhat garishly named Koala Adventure Island; or rather, it’s a re-opening of South Molle Island Resort. And, considering the slew of negative reviews the budget property racked up over the years, let’s hope it’s a dramatic improvement. Aimed squarely at exuberant young party types, all the usual daytime water- and land-based sport activities are included, as well as a nightspot with a resident DJ and bands.

Getting There: Boat transfer from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island.