12 dreamy island holidays in Australia you need to visit

Because nothing beats an island holiday.

As the land girt by sea, it’s no surprise that Australia is home to over 8000 islands, most of them boasting luxe lodgings, cute cafes and an abundance of Aussie wildlife. But with so many islands to choose from, picking where to start your next adventure can feel like an almost impossible task.

Don’t worry though, we’ve hit the ground running to do the research for you. From WA’s quokka-filled Rottnest Island and Magnetic Island in Queensland to Tassie‘s generous sprinkling of rugged islets and SA getaways like Kangaroo Island, these are the ones worthy of your bucket list.

1. Picnic Island, Tasmania

Picnic Island sits in Tasmania’s magnificent Coles Bay.

Accessible only by boat, Picnic Island sits in Coles Bay within Tassie’s ruggedly beautiful Freycinet National Park. Owner Clem Newton-Brown originally used the island for rugged camping trips with his family, but it now boasts two weathered, copper-clad structures.

The buildings are connected by a boardwalk: one contains five bedrooms, sleeping up to 10 people, while the other features a kitchen, dining and living space complete with suspended fireplace and views over the bay. Dolphins can be spotted passing by, and a walk around the island after dark reveals scores of fairy penguins returning to their burrows. Guests can also enjoy fishing, swimming and foraging for mussels at low tide.

2. Kangaroo Island, SA

Take a short break (and make a big difference) on Kangaroo Island in South Australia. In summer, Hamilton Dune is the place to be. A duo of private-hire lodges overlooking picturesque Emu Bay, guests can choose between architecturally designed Dune House and the larger Hamilton House. Or book into the recently refurbished Southern Ocean Lodge for a taste of true luxury.

While on the island, visitors can take guided tours, spot native wildlife and sample hyperlocal produce at Emu Bay Lavender Farm . Dreaming of a dive with dolphins? Look no further than Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures , where you can expect to swim with anywhere between 20 to 50 wild dolphins at a time. For lovers of gin, Kangaroo Island Distillery is also a must.

3. K’gari, Qld

a man walking along the west coast of K'gari — Escape to the west coast of K’gari. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/ Kyle Hunter)

Some 500,000 visitors arrive on Queensland’s K’gari each year and Wayne, an easygoing larrikin who doubles as driver and guide at K’gari Explorer Tours , estimates 499,000 of them stop at Lake McKenzie. And as easy as it would be to spend the whole day there, this island offers so much more. Think wild swimming, whale watching, 4WD tours, shipwreck snorkelling, guided walks and more.

When it comes to settling in for the night, many visitors opt the luxurious Kingfisher Bay Resort . The stunning eco-driven accommodation is the perfect place to stay and play thanks to its day spa, guided activities and variety of restaurants. While here, be sure to take a Bush Tucker Talk & Taste tour to learn about the island’s native ingredients. K’Gari Beach Resort on the island’s east coast is also a great budget-friendly option.

4. King Island, Tas

Unwind at Kittawa Lodge on King Island — Enjoy sweeping views across the Bass Strait from every room at Kittawa Lodge.

King Island lies off the beautiful and craggy coastline of Tasmania’s north-west. Home to some of the cleanest air in the world, its no wonder the owners of Kittawa Lodge decided to set up shop. Dreamt up to be a place where busy people can unwind and breathe deeply, its two luxury cabins sit snug against the property’s rugged wilds.

With sweeping views across the Bass Strait from every room, both lodges are designed to maximise guests’ connection to the outdoors. Inside, luxurious linens, a handmade concrete bath and original paintings by local artists deepen its sense of place. No Tassie experience would be complete without lashings of local produce either, and King Island certainly delivers.

5. Rottnest Island, WA

an aerial view of the Rottnest Island — Rottnest Island is a water lover’s paradise. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Jump on a ferry from Perth to explore this pristine playground – just be sure to tread lightly. Rottnest Island has long been WA’s holiday destination of choice thanks to its timeless, slow-paced charm. It is also recognised as one of the country’s best-managed ecotourism environments. The island and all its plants and critters are protected by law, including the incredibly friendly quokka – just be sure to follow the guidelines that keep them safe.

With a no-car policy, Rottnest is an ideal place to explore by bike. There are 45 kilometres of walking trails, too, which take in the island’s many beautiful beaches. Alternatively, take a Segway tour to hard-to-reach corners of the island. Stay overnight at Samphire Rottnest to soak up the serenity after the daytime crowds have gone home.

6. Flinders Island, Tas

Exterior of Crayshack Flinders Island — The ocean beckons for guests at the Crayshack on Flinders Island. (Image: Liam Neal)

Flinders Island is the largest in the Furneaux Group, a collection of islands sitting pretty in the Bass Strait. Renowned for its pristine and wild waters harbouring some of Australia’s best seafood, it’s long been a chef’s secret pantry. The island’s resident farmers, growers and producers are passionate about its local ingredients; be sure to get a taste down at The Flinders Wharf .

Providing another reason to visit – and stay awhile, The Flinders Wharf also manages three chic and cosy farm stays on the Quoin Farm . Dwarf Cottage is a gorgeous studio space perfect for couples; family-friendly Crayshack sits right on Killiecrankie Beach; and the three-bedroom Wombat Lodge boasts a tub overlooking the mountains. Take your pick!

7. Abrolhos Islands, WA

The Abrolhos Islands in WA from above — The Abrolhos Islands are an adventurer’s dream. (Image: Chris Gordon)

Sitting 70 kilometres off Western Australia lies an island smaller than a footy oval. Basile Island is just one stop on Eco Abrolhos’ five-day exploratory cruise of the Abrolhos Islands, and its 32-person catamaran is the only tourism vessel permitted to stop there. Few people even know this remote archipelago of 122 islands exists, making it the perfect getaway for thrill-seekers after a bit of peace and quiet.

Snorkel over coral gardens in glass-blue water. Dive at the historic Batavia shipwreck. Go crayfishing and lobster-catching. Learn about the local pearl farm industry. And after all that, head back to the mainland to visit the Museum of Geraldton , where you can learn more about the magical place you just explored.

8. Tiwi Islands, NT

an aerial view of a beach on the Tiwi Islands — The Tiwi Islands is a far-flung northern sanctuary where art flourishes. (Image: Tourism NT)

Travel across the water from Darwin in a tiny prop plane to soak in the ancient and abundant culture of the Tiwi Islands. Home to plentiful tropical rainforests, clay-like cliffs and white-sand beaches, its landscapes will leave an indeliable mark on your heart. This top-notch topography is matched in magnificence by the island’s many Indigenous artists, who you can meet on guided art tours.

The Tiwi’s strong cultural pulse can be felt across its two main islands, Bathurst and Melville, where you can experience First Nations language, culture, dance, song and storytelling. Nine smaller, uninhabited islands make up the rest of this rich community in the Timor Sea.

9. Lord Howe Island, NSW

While technically classified as part of NSW, the World Heritage listed Lord Howe Island has an identity all of its own. The remnant of a volcano that was active more than two million years ago, this tiny paradise in the Tasman Sea needs to be on your bucket list.

Lord Howe is characterised by its knockout beaches, all-year-round good weather and abundance of subtropical forests, all surveyed by the impressive Mt Gower – rated one of Australia’s best day walks. Don’t miss the I-never-want-to-leave luxury of Capella Lodge , home to one of Australia’s best infinity pools.

10. Christmas Island

a drone shot of a boat sailing across Christmas Island — Christmas Island is a secluded gem in the Indian Ocean. (Image: Christmas Island Tourism Association)

Located in the Indian Ocean 2600 kilometres north-west of Perth, Christmas Island is unlike anywhere you’ve ever visited before. It’s a true secluded paradise where tropical jungle meets turquoise water, offering way more than the headlines would lead you to believe.

Come for the huge red-crab migration made famous by Sir David Attenborough, one of the largest animal migrations on the planet. Stay for (or rather, at) luxury eco retreat Swell Lodge , where all funds go to the island’s incredible conservation efforts. Fill your days with secret swimming spots, snorkelling, hiking, fishing and a melting pot of unique cultural experiences.

11. Cocos Keeling Islands

a boat tour on Cocos Keeling — Boat tours explore outer islands and reefs. (Image: Cocos Keeling Tourism/Rachel Claire)

Like Christmas Island, the Cocos Keeling Islands is another external Australian territory, minding its own business in the vast Indian Ocean. About halfway between Perth and Sri Lanka, this tranquil and unspoilt atoll is home to a rich culture and heritage that dates back centuries.

A visit to this little slice of paradise is a must for those craving a tropical escape. With 27 coral islands, visitors are encouraged to spend their days boat-hopping from one beach to the next. Only two of the tiny landmasses – West Island and Home Island – are inhabited and there are no shopping centres, restaurant chains or crowded beaches, making it the perfect place to recharge.

12. Norfolk Island

Aerial beach shot on Norfolk Island — The locals in Norfolk are extremely welcoming. (Image: Norfolk Island Tourism)

Resting quietly between New Zealand and New Caledonia, Norfolk Island is – geographically speaking – a very isolated place. But this sublime speck in the South Pacific Ocean is home to a vibrant and thriving community that welcomes its visitors with open arms.

Its subtropical landscape of rolling plains and pine forests dance in time with sparkling bays and world-class dive sites. In particular, Emily Bay is known among locals as an aquatic mecca, with seals and turtles spotted frequently. Harnessing the abundance of homegrown produce, from fresh fish to honey and cheese, Norfolk also boasts an immaculate paddock-to-plate philosophy – stop by Bailey’s to sample the goods.

From thundering waterfalls to ancient Indigenous art, Kimberley’s raw beauty will take your breath away.

Wild, pristine, and shaped by nature, the Kimberley Coast is one of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes. A remote and rugged frontier that remains a bucket list destination for many travellers. Its most breathtaking attractions – including Montgomery Reef, King George Falls and Horizontal Falls – are accessible only by sea or air, making a guided expedition cruise aboard Silversea’s luxury expedition ship, Silver Cloud, the ideal way to explore it.

From its intricate intertidal zones to ancient rock art, extreme tides and rare wildlife found nowhere else in Australia – or the world – this journey offers an unparalleled exploration of one of Earth’s last true wildernesses.

Why Silversea?

Silversea offers a 10-day expedition departing Broome, or an extended 16-day expedition voyage from Indonesia, including landings on the hidden gems of Palopo Sulawesi and Komodo. Accompanied by expert guides and specialists in marine biology, history and geology, guests gain a deeper understanding of the Kimberley’s dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage and extraordinary biodiversity.

Silversea offers one of the experiential travel industry’s leading crew-to-guest ratios. Along with all-suite accommodation (80 per cent with private verandah), 24-hour butler service, a swimming pool and four dining options. Silver Cloud also has an experienced crew of multilingual expedition guides and specialists in marine biology, history and geology to enhance your Kimberley Experience.

silversea cruise ship pool deck — Take a dip in the pool deck.

1. Koolama Bay

Before visitors see King George Falls, they hear them – a growing rumble in the distance, steady and foreboding as the Zodiac glides through the gorge, the sound echoing off sheer rock formations. At 80 meters tall, the twin cascades carve through the red cliffs, churning the waters below in a spectacular finale – but Koolama Bay holds secrets beyond its striking scenery.

Named after a ship that beached here following an aerial attack by Japanese bombers in World War II, the bay may seem desolate, yet it teems with life. With Silversea’s expert guides on their 10-day Kimberley itinerary, guests gain a sharper eye for its hidden wonders – rock wallabies darting across the cliffs, crocodiles lurking among dense green mangroves, and high above, the silhouette of a bird of prey circling the sky.

King George Falls at koolama bay excursion on Silversea Kimberley Cruise — Take a shore excursion to see King George Falls.

2. Freshwater Cove / Wijingarra Butt Butt

Connect with Country on a wet landing at Freshwater Cove, also known as Wijingarra Butt Butt. Considered one of the most special experiences on both the 16-day and 10-day Kimberley cruises, Silversea guests are welcomed by the traditional Indigenous custodians of the land, painted with traditional ochre, and invited to take part in a smoking ceremony.

Located on the mainland near Montgomery Reef, Wijingarra Butt Butt holds deep cultural significance to the local Indigenous community. Here, rock formations along the shore represent spiritual ancestors, and guests are guided to a nearby rock overhang filled with ancient art, where traditional owners share the stories and meaning behind these sacred paintings.

welcome to country on freshwater cove during silversea kimberley cruise — Take part in a smoking ceremony. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

3. Vansittart Bay (Jar Island)

Modern history, ancient culture and mystery converge in Vansittart Bay, which is also known as Jar Island. Here, the first thing to catch the eye is the dented, silver fuselage of a World War II-era C-53 plane – a striking relic of the past. Yet, the true cultural treasures lie just a short hike away where two distinct styles of Indigenous rock art – Gwion Gwion and Wandjina – can be found.

The Wandjina figures, deeply connected to Indigenous traditions, stand in stark contrast to the enigmatic Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) paintings, which date back more than 12,000 years. Significantly different in form and style, the two different styles create a striking juxtaposition, offering a rare glimpse into the region’s rich and complex past.

aerial view of Vansittart Bay, See it in you Silversea Kimberley Cruise. — Explore ancient Gwion Gwion rock art at Vansittart Bay. (Image: Janelle Lugge)

4. Horizontal Falls

Part illusion, part natural phenomenon, the Kimberley’s much-lauded Horizontal Falls aren’t a waterfall, but a tidal and geographic spectacle that visitors have to see to comprehend. Known as Garaanngaddim, the phenomenon occurs when seawater rushes through two narrow gaps- one just twenty metres wide, and the other seven metres in width, between the escarpments of Talbot Bay.

With each tidal shift, the force of the water creates whirlpools, furious currents and the illusion of a horizontal cascade as thousands of gallons of water are pushed and pulled in through the gap every six hours with relentless movement, making this one of the Kimberley ’s most mesmerising natural wonders.

Horizontal Falls are described as "One of the greatest wonders of the natural world". They are formed from a break in-between the McLarty Ranges reaching up to 25m in width. The natural phenomenon is created as seawater builds up faster on one side of the gaps than the other, creating a waterfall up to 5m high on a King tide. — Watch whirlpools and furious currents collide. (Image: Janelle Lugge)

5. Montgomery Reef

As the tide turns in Montgomery Reef, magic happens. With the Kimberley’s legendary tides varying up to ten metres, at low tide the submerged reef almost appears to rise from the depths: exposing up to four metres of the sandstone reef.

The impact is otherworldly: as the water drains, waterfalls cascade on either side of the channel, turtles left exposed scramble and dive, and fish leap in search of sanctuary in shallow pools. Meanwhile, the dinner bell rings for the migratory seabirds dugongs, reef sharks and dolphins that scavenge and feast in the area.

Using zodiacs, guests cruise through one of the world’s most significant inshore reef systems navigated by experienced guides, exploring the most intricate and fascinating parts of a 300-square-kilometre-wide biodiversity hotspot.

aerial view of boat going along Montgomery Reef — Witness seabirds, dolphins and reef sharks on the hunt.

6. Mitchell Falls by Helicopter

Experiencing the Kimberley by sea allows you to feel the power of the tides, but travelling by helicopter reveals the sandstone tapestry of the Kimberley, a landscape geologists believe is over 1.8 billion years old.

One of Silversea’s most popular optional excursions , guests who opt to fly into the interior from the onboard helipad soar up above the rust-coloured landscape of the Mitchell plateau, taking in one of Australia’s most scenic waterfalls: Mitchell Falls, a series of four emerald-coloured pools gently cascades into each other, before plunging down to the river below.

Seeing the landscape from above reveals a landscape weaved and shaped by the power of the freshwater wet season, juxtaposed to the constant lapping of the relentless and powerful tide on the coast.

aerial view of mitchell falls on silversea helicopter excursion — See emerald pools cascade into the river below. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

7. Indigenous Art Caves, Wandjina Art

The Kimberley Region of Western Australia is home to some of the most striking and significant

Indigenous rock art in Australia. Dotted throughout the landscape are caves, cliffs and rock overhangs depicting the striking, ethereal image of Wandjina, the rainmaker spirit and creation being central to many of the Dreamtime stories in this region.

Some of the paintings are regularly repainted by traditional custodians, while others are believed to be over 4,000 years old. Each artwork serves as both a cultural record and a living connection to the past, offering a rare opportunity to engage with the enduring traditions of the Kimberley’s Indigenous communities.

Freshwater Cover Rock Art the kimberleys — Walk among cultural records preserved in stone. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

See the best of this incredible part of the world on a Silversea Kimberley cruise. Book your 10- or extended 16-day expedition voyage at silversea.com