15 Incredible Queensland Island Holidays & Resorts For Your Next Vacay

For a vacation in the tropics in Australia, are you seeking for the top island resorts in Queensland? You’ve arrived at the proper location.

To bring you the top Queensland island vacations available, we’ve done a tonne of research (and some actual vacationing)!

In reality, Queensland has over 900 islands. The majority of which are deserted and are located in the renowned Great Barrier Reef National Park.

But we’ve discovered 15 outstanding Queensland island resorts where you may bring your significant other or kids for a classic Australian vacation!

Because I’m from Queensland, I may be a little biassed. But I think the islands off Queensland’s coast are some of the most beautiful places to travel to!

That’s saying something coming from a travel blogger who frequents locations like Bali, the Maldives, and Hawaii.

You can choose from a family-friendly Whitsunday island vacation in Hamilton Island. An exciting 4WD adventure on Fraser Island, a romantic couples vacation on Hayman Island, or world-class snorkelling in Moreton Island.

Your bucket list for Australia should include these as the top Queensland vacation islands.

Also Read: 30+ Japan’s Hidden Gems: The Best Places in Japan

FOR YOUR NEXT VACATION, PLAN ONE OF THESE 15 STUNNING QUEENSLAND ISLAND HOLIDAYS!

Where to find the Best Queensland Holiday Islands?

The ever-popular Whitsunday islands are the obvious pick for Queensland’s top islands.

The family-friendly islands off of Cairns are another excellent option. Although they might be a little more difficult to get, several extremely stunning hidden jewels in the southern Great Barrier Reef region are definitely worth the effort.

Then there are the underappreciated islands close to Brisbane, which are ideal for a short weekend vacation.

In this guide, we cover them all. Unfortunately, the vast majority of Queensland’s 900+ offshore islands aren’t truly accessible for overnight stays.

Some are not developed, privately owned, or open to the general public. Many simply aren’t accessible without a boat since they are too small or far away.

Our selection has been reduced to these 15 breathtaking islands in Queensland. All of which are ideal for a relaxed vacation and really offer lodging.

For more information on each of these Queensland island getaways, keep reading:

  1. Hayman of Island
  2. Island of Fitzroy
  3. Island of Moreton
  4. Lizard Island
  5. Island of Hamilton
  6.  Island of Orpheus
  7. Elysian Retreat (Long Island)
  8. Island of Lady Elliott
  9. Island of Fraser
  10. Magnetic Island
  11. Island of Heron
  12. Island of Lady Musgrave
  13. Daydream Island
  14. Island of Bedarra
  15. Island of Green

The Best Vacations & Resorts on Queensland Island

#1 | Island of Hayman

Hayman Island had a $135 million rehabilitation after being severely damaged by Cyclone Debbie in 2017, and is now one of the greatest resorts in the Whitsundays.

Hayman has everything to offer everyone and is arguably the most opulent of all the Whitsunday island resorts.

One of the resort’s two completely distinct wings is ideal for sun-seeking retirees, honeymooners, and couples. Families with children or teenagers may enjoy the ideal Queensland island vacation in the other wing, which has a kid-friendly pool.

On Hayman Island, there is no shortage of things to do. A wide variety of daily island activities and day tours, including stand-up paddle boarding, are available at the resort.

Kayaking, sailing, champagne sunset cruises, nature hikes, snorkelling excursions, tennis, as well as kids’ fish feeding are some of the activities available. Even a golf simulator is available!

You won’t be let down Choosing Hayman Island as your destination opulent Whitsunday island vacation, whether you’re travelling with kids or a partner.

How to Get There: Take a flight to Hamilton Island, then board a posh boat to Hayman Island. Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island transfers can also be made via helicopter.

On the island, where to stay: The Intercontinental Resort at Hayman Island

Also Read: 13 Best Destinations For Couples Holidays

#2 |Island of Fitzroy

Fitzroy Island Resort is one of the greatest Queensland island getaways for couples or a family vacation since it provides an abundance of activities, both underwater and on land.

Fitzroy is one of a very small number of islands in North Queensland, off Cairns. It is located on one of the Great Barrier Reef’s most pristine and safest locations, and it is just a 45-minute boat journey away.

Fitzroy Island offers unmatched prospects for adventure thanks to the island’s listing as a national park, which covers more than 95% of the area.

Stay the night and spend some time snorkelling with marine life, walking along white sand beaches, and hiking through the rainforest. As an alternative, Fitzroy Island is reachable as a day excursion from Cairns.

Even better, you can get on a glass-bottom boat and observe the fish from above. Because of the pristine coral reef, the area is filled with aquatic life, so there will be enough for you to view.

And if you do manage to miss out on the excitement, stop by the turtle rehabilitation facility to meet the island’s rescued turtles and see their healing up close.

How to Get There: From Cairns Marina, the Fitzroy Flyer ferry for people travels a 45-minute route.

On the island, where to stay: Resort at Fitzroy Island

#3 | Island of Moreton

There aren’t many vacation islands close to Moreton Island. Brisbane that’s great for a weekend trip or a water adventure with the family.

One of the biggest and most impressive Southern hemisphere artificial reefs, the Tangalooma Wrecks are located on Moreton Island, just a short 60-minute boat journey from Brisbane.

A barrier was built in the 1960s using fifteen obsolete dredging ships, collectively known as “The Wrecks.” An extremely popular wreck dive and snorkel location, the wreckages are now home to a large number of coral fish and other aquatic animals.

Dolphin feeding at dusk, sandboarding, ATV trips, kayaking and Champagne Pools swimming are a few additional activities available on Moreton Island.

Use our advice to make your own Moreton Island travel arrangements, or reserve a day trip from Brisbane. However, an overnight stay is highly advised as it will give you more time to thoroughly explore the island.

There are a variety of lodging alternatives on Moreton Island, including glamping, basic seaside camping, and Tangalooma Island Resort.

How to Get There: Take the Micat Ferry (passengers and vehicles) from Port of Brisbane if you want to take a 4WD vehicle to the island, or take the Tangalooma Ferry (passengers only) from Holt Street Wharf in Pinkenba.

On the island, where to stay:  Villa 21 Moreton Island Villas and Apartments at Tangalooma Island Resort

#4 | Lizard Island

The best luxury island in Queensland is Lizard Island Resort, which is surrounded by a 1,013-hectare national park. Beautiful private villas in a carefree, barefoot-luxury style may be found on Lizard Island.

Children ten years of age and older are welcome at this all-inclusive resort, as well as adults. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find it to be the ideal getaway because of its remote location and private beaches.

The resort emphasizes romance and provides exclusive events designed just for couples. If you want to spend the afternoon alone, plan a private beach visit with a fancy picnic basket.

Plan a massage for two people if you’re looking for something even more soothing. Using a sunset is a part of the romance bundle. sail, a day at the beach in your very own private beach supper and a dinghy. for the most romantic experience possible.

Indulge in a variety of water sports, including glass-bottom kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, snorkelling, diving, and private boat charters, if you and your partner are feeling really daring.

How to Get There: Australia’s most northern island resort is Lizard Island. Due to its isolation, it can only be accessible via flight charters organised through the resort from Cairns.

On the island, where to stay: Resort at Lizard Island

#5 | Island of Hamilton

There is no need to introduce Hamilton Island. One of Queensland’s top Whitsunday island resorts, this lovely vacation spot has long been a go-to for families, couples, and essentially anyone looking for a tropical Aussie getaway!

Hamilton Island, which is in the beautiful Whitsundays, is a fantastic spot to start when organising a tour to visit Whitehaven Beach and the Great Barrier Reef.

One of the nicest islands in Queensland for living is Hamilton Island. On the island, a lively community of people live and work. This means that Hamilton Island has a tonne of fantastic places to dine and drink, play golf, go hiking, and other fantastic activities.

There are no automobiles on the island. Tourists and locals alike use electric golf buggies that may be rented by the day to move around. A local shuttle service is also available for getting from point A to point.

There are several locations to stay on Hamilton Island, ranging from opulent resorts to private homes and self-contained bungalows big enough for a group of friends or the entire family.

You can’t go wrong, Hamilton Island was chosen as your Queensland island. vacations because it’s one of the most well-liked vacation spots in all of Australia!

How to Get There: Major Australian cities have direct flights every day to Hamilton Island, or you can take a ferry from Airlie Beach. There is also transportation by helicopter from Airlie Beach.

On the island, where to stay: Yacht Club Villas, The Beach Club, Palm Bungalows, and Reef View Hotel

#6 | Island of Orpheus

On the Great Barrier Reef, between Cairns and Townsville, Orpheus Island Lodge is a private, all-inclusive resort with space for up to 28 guests.

With customised packages for babymoons, elopements, and weddings, this exclusive, opulent resort provides couples and small groups with the ideal Queensland island getaway. Even occasionally taking wellness retreats are known to be held there!

On the island, you may go scuba diving, kayaking, sailing, picnics, and other things. Additionally, there are choices for unique tours.

You can plan a visit to the 18-metre-deep Museum of Underwater Art, a gallery of sculptures created by humans. Or, if you’d prefer to stay on dry land, travel to Hinchinbrook Island, Australia’s largest national park island.

Be sure to look into the island’s volunteer opportunities if you’re searching for a genuinely distinctive experience. As a visitor, you can participate in eco-dives, help with marine research, and clean up the beach.

How to Get There: From Townsville or Cairns, it takes a 30- or 90-minute helicopter journey to get to Orpheus Island.

On the island, where to stay: Lodge on Orpheus Island

#7 | Eco-Retreat at Elysium (Long Island)

One of the few five-star Whitsunday resorts that is entirely solar-powered is the Elysian Eco Retreat on Long Island.

The Elysian Eco Retreat welcomes both adults and kids who are 14 years old and older and offers lodging for up to 20 people. Rockier beaches, tropical rainforests, and, of course, the magnificent Great Barrier Reef are all included in this remote vacation.

Elysian Eco Retreat is a wonderful vacation spot for your upcoming anniversary, elopement, babymoon, or honeymoon with a focus on peace and relaxation.

The resort provides activities for both individuals and small groups. You can participate in mild yoga classes that are hosted on the deck with a view of the ocean in the mornings. Visit the health spa and beauty salon in the late afternoon services.

Numerous activities, including motorcycling, sailing, snorkelling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, are available for island exploration. In the evenings, be sure to just relax and watch the sunset from your villa on the ocean.

How to Get There: You can use a helicopter to go to Elysian from Proserpine Airport or Hamilton Island.

On the island, where to stay: Eco-Retreat at Elysium

#8 | Island of Lady Elliott

The Queensland island resort Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort, often known as “The Manta Ray’s Home”,” is ideal for families looking for adventure.

Lady Elliot Island is a no-take region where there is just constructive action permitted, and it is situated near the far-flung southernmost extremity of the Great Barrier Reef.

Over 1,200 kinds of abundant aquatic life, including pristine coral reefs, sharks, turtles, and manta rays filled with fish, may be found within this marine sanctuary.

The fact that the resort is well-known for its underwater sports shouldn’t come as a surprise. There are more than twenty dive sites to select from, making it an excellent spot for both experienced and inexperienced divers.

Even PADI diving training is available at the resort for anyone seeking to upgrade or earn new certifications.

If you’d rather stay near the surface, snorkelling is a fantastic alternative. Lonely Planet selected Lady Elliot Island as the second-best snorkelling beach in the world in 2020.

How to Get There: In order to provide picturesque flight transfers, Lady Elliot Island Resort works with 1770, Bundaberg, or Hervey Bay. There are no boat transports to the island because of its isolation.

On the island, where to stay: The Eco Resort on Lady Elliot Island

#9 | Island of Fraser

A must-see for any tourist to Australia is Fraser Island, also known as K’gari, one of Australia’s most well-known natural monuments.

The largest sand island in the world, measuring from top to bottom, more than 120 kilometres, is situated 15 kilometres off the coast of Queensland at Hervey Bay. One of Queensland’s top islands for adventurers is the UNESCO-designated treasure.

One of the best things to do on the island is to drive a 4WD car along the beach because there are no sealed roads there. Additionally, you can join this 2-day eco tour if you don’t have a 4WD.

A popular ecotourism location is Fraser Island. The upscale Resort in Kingfisher Bay, decked-out safari tents for glamping, powered camping areas, or you simply pitch a tent directly on the sand dunes are all options for lodging.

The most stunning natural land formations in Australia may be found on Fraser Island.

magnificent freshwater swimming sites such Champagne Pools, Eli Creek, Lake Wabby, and Lake Mackenzie, as well as enormous sand dunes and the well-known Maheno Shipwreck.

With so many incredible adventures available, Fraser Island is one of those island getaways in Queensland that won’t let you down.

How to Get There: Daily cruises tYou can take a ferry to Fraser Island from River Heads in Hervey Bay or Inskip Point. close to Rainbow Beach.

On the island, where to stay: The Eurong Beach Resort, The Beachcamp Eco Retreat, and The Kingfisher Bay Resort

#10 | Magnetic Island

One of the liveliest and most well-liked Queensland holiday islands, Magnetic Island is only 8 kilometer’s from Townsville in Cleveland Bay and provides endless options for adventure on the Great Barrier Reef.

“Maggie” has it all, including enchanting woods, coral-lined coastlines. Its very own koala colony, as well as sandy beaches and rocky shorelines. Thanks to the designation of more than half the island as a national park.

In addition, there is the Peppers Blue on Blue Resort, which offers serene and unwinding lodgings, and you have the ideal vacation spot for both families and couples.

There are usually a tonne of events and activities to participate in, as well as a range of restaurants and pubs, on one of the few islands off Queensland that is home to many year-round residents.

On Magnetic Island, visitors can go snorkelling, sailing, hiking, playing golf, going fishing, riding horses, going kayaking, and doing jet skiing, to name a few activities.

Due to its proximity to the SS Yongala, one of the best shipwreck dive sites in the world, the island is also well-known for its diving.

How to Get There: Daily passenger and car ferries leave Townsville.

On the island, where to stay: Beached on Magnetic Island, Base Magnetic Island, Peppers Blue on Blue Resort, and Absolute Waterfront Magnetic Island

#11 | Island of Heron

The Heron Island Resort is situated close to Gladstone at the southernmost point of the Great Barrier Reef. The island’s magnificent coral reefs, white sand beaches, and historic Pisonia Forest provide countless chances for family fun.

The island’s magnificent coral reefs, white sand beaches, and historic Pisonia Forest provide countless chances for family fun. Additionally, the island is home to the University of Queensland Research Station, a renowned research and instruction facility.

Here, you can take part in the excitement, explore the labs to learn more about the study, and interact closely with a variety of aquatic species.

Children aged seven to twelve can participate in the resort’s Junior Rangers Program, which gives them the chance to learn more about the island’s natural surroundings.

Take advantage of the resort’s activities, which range from kayaking, paddle boarding, and nature trails to snorkeling, for those who want to explore independently.

How to Get There: For visitors coming from Gladstone, the Heron Island resort organizes boat transfers. There are various options for transfers via seaplane or helicopter.

On the island, where to stay: Hotel Heron Island

#12 | Island of Lady Musgrave

Due to its location directly on a coral cay in a less popular region of the national park, Lady Musgrave is widely regarded as one of the top resorts on Great Barrier Reef islands for diving and snorkeling.

Families seeking a quick break amidst nature might consider Lady Musgrave.

You can spend your days whale watching, swimming, diving, exploring the beaches, and snorkelling. A glass-bottom boat tour of the island’s reef is another option.

The Queensland island resort of Lady Musgrave offers distinctive camping and glamping options.

You can sleep while listening to the sounds of the ocean while camping under the sky. You could even spend the night on a three-level pontoon boat called the Lady Musgrave HQwith a facility that observes the ocean converts to bunk beds at night.

TYYou can doze off here while being surrounded by a variety of marine creatures. You may also experiment with glamping on the top deck of the yacht for a more quiet night under the stars.

How to Get There: Ferry service between Bundaberg and the Town of 1770 is available every day.

On the island, where to stay: Accommodations at Lady Musgrave HQ Pontoon

#13 | Daydream Island

Daydream Island Resort is the perfect vacation spot for families and couples, and it is situated in the centre of the Whitsunday Islands, off the coast of Queensland.

There is something for everyone thanks to the contemporary, roomy lodgings, limitless chances for activity, and serene landscapes guaranteed to evoke a sense of tranquillity.

The unique man-made Living Reef, a freeform coral lagoon constructed around the island’s main structure, is Daydream Island’s main draw.

The lagoon, which has a capacity of about 1.5 million litres, is home to numerous aquatic species. Numerous fish, stingrays, reef sharks, starfish, and coral are all present here.

You will get the chance to interact closely with all of the aquatic life while staying at the resort. You may swim with stingrays and feed the fish while snorkelling through the reef.

On the island, there are a tonne of additional activities available, like yoga, ocean rafting, paddle boarding, and golf. But Daydream is undoubtedly one of Queensland’s most distinctive island resorts thanks to the Living Reef!

How to Get There: Fly to Hamilton Island, where you may take a boat to Daydream Island. Boat transfers are also available from the Port of Airlie.

On the island, where to stay: Resort at Daydream Island

#14 | Island of Bedarra

Off the coast of Mission Beach, on the Great Barrier Reef, close to Cairns and Townsville, is a privately owned island known as Bedarra Island Resort.

Privately owned island known as Bedarra Island Resort. located off the coast of Mission Beach, close to On the Great Barrier Reef are Cairns and Townsville..

This secluded retreat, which has ten private villas scattered across the island’s lush rainforest, is the ideal vacation spot for your upcoming romantic couples break.

The villas at the resort each provide a unique experience, giving you the ability to personalise your getaway. If you like to be near the water, ask to stay at the Beach House.

Or perhaps you enjoy the calm of the rainforest? Make sure to reserve the Treehouse Villa in such a case. There are ten options available, so there is something for every person.

In addition to exclusive With distinctive lodgings, the resort offers a wide range of leisure and adventure opportunities.

Spend your days paddle boarding, kayaking, or fishing, snorkelling, or getting a massage. Even nearby islands that are uninhabited can be reached for a romantic picnic in the late afternoon.

How to Get There: Ferries depart from Mission Beach for Bedarra Island. Transfers by helicopter are accessible from Cairns Airport or Mission Beach.

On the island, where to stay: Bedarra Island resort

#15 | Island of Green

 Just 27 km off the Queensland coast, in the centre of the magnificent Great Barrier Reef. Is a little coral cay called Green Island. It’s the ideal location for a day excursion from Cairns or an island retreat.

Green Island is the only island in the Marine Park. On the Great Barrier Reef entirely covered in 6000-year-old pristine rainforest. Which gives the place its name.

Additionally, it is encircled by an “inshore patch reef” with gorgeous coral gardens. That serve as a home for a wide variety Abundant aquatic life, hundreds of coral species included., vibrant fish, turtles, and even dugongs!

Despite its diminutive size, Green Island has a lot to offer. This idyllic island getaway for families offers a variety of activities. Including glass-bottom boat rides, eco-tours in the jungle, and parasailing.

Only a few of the islands close to cairns are accessible by boat. Green Island is the ideal location for a quick weekend break or day trip because the ferry travel there only takes 45 minutes!

How to Get There: Fly to Townsville and take a boat from there to Magnetic Island.

On the island, where to stay: Hotel Green Island

Ready to Book Your Queensland Island Holiday?

The majority of these Queensland island resorts may be reserved through Booking.com, Hotels.com, or Agoda. All of which provide a price match guarantee.

There are additional advantages and member-only discounts, as well as free cancellation on the majority of reservations. Find the greatest hotel deals using the search box below!

Wrap-Up for Queensland Island Resorts

Queensland is one of Australia’s most stunning states, and with so many incredible island vacation spots. You won’t have any trouble choosing.

We have a tonne of articles about Queensland island resorts and vacation spots because we live in Queensland. And have spent a lot of time exploring this beautiful state. Here are a few you might find intriguing:

We really hope that this list of Queensland vacation islands has been helpful to you in making travel arrangements. Visit the Queensland tourism page for more details about travelling to Queensland.

FAQS

1. What activities can I do while on a Queensland island holiday?

You can enjoy all the activities that a tropical island paradise has to offer. Whether it’s snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, swimming or exploring the beautiful scenery and culture of Queensland, you’re sure to find something to keep you entertained.

2. Are there any discounts available when booking my Queensland island holiday?

Yes! We offer special discounts for group bookings, as well as for first-time visitors. Please contact us for more information.

3. Are there any additional services available at the resorts? 

Yes! Many of our resorts offer a variety of amenities, including spas, fitness centers, pools, and private beach access.

4. Is there a minimum stay requirement for a Queensland island holiday?

No, there is no minimum stay requirement. However, some resorts may require a minimum stay in order to access certain amenities or services.

Irshad Ali
Irshad Ali
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