As if there was any doubt that our state is the ultimate tropical holiday destination, Wotif went ahead and ranked five Queensland locations in the Top Ten Best Islands of their Uniquely Aussie Awards. It got us thinking – which Queensland islands would we put on our own ‘top ten’ list? And where would we stay if we were to visit them? Without further ado, and with the help of Queensland.com, here are the 10 best islands in Queensland…
Hamilton Island
As far as beachfront stays with incredible island views go, the luxe oasis that is qualia on Hamilton Island takes the cake. With views across the Whitsunday Islands this lavish property offers 60 individual pavilions tucked away on the northernmost point of the island. Turn up the privacy even more and holiday like a celebrity, by staying at Papillon or Aquila luxury holiday homes (next door to qualia), just as George Clooney and Julia Roberts did while filming the 2022 romantic blockbuster, Ticket to Paradise.
K’gari (Fraser Island)
Trade ultra-luxe holiday homes with no fuss beachfront stays and camp on the world’s largest sand island – K’gari (Fraser Island). Here, outdoors buffs can choose from 45 camp sites, many only a few barefoot steps to the beach. Set up camp at one of the eight sites along the eastern side of the island for jaw dropping sunrises or, for breathtaking sunsets, head to the western side facing the mainland. More experienced campers can go off grid and pitch a tent at one of ten isolated campsites rarely accessed by other travellers. By day, explore the island’s most iconic landmarks including the freshwater oasis that is Lake McKenzie, hit the sand and 4WD along 75 Mile Beach or wind down with a float along Eli Creek.
Magnetic Island
When it comes to accommodation with a view, Base Backpackers at Magnetic Island has the best of both worlds. Not only is it easy on the wallet, but the youth hostel also just happens to boast the most spectacular outlook from each of the five private oceanfront bungalows (some with ensuite). Wake up and look beyond the edge of the double bed over the iconic Magnetic Island boulders to some seriously Instagram-able Pacific Ocean views. Not bad considering these rooms start at around $133 per night.
Tangalooma
Cruise just 75-minutes from Queensland’s capital and stumble upon the island treasure that is Tangalooma. It’s here that you’ll find a unique ‘x shaped’ holiday home perched on the hillside above the western beach. The X House offers an affordable island stay with a funky, new age design featuring corrugated iron exteriors and popping red accents. The house sleeps up to eight guests across two levels and comes with beautiful views across Moreton Bay. While away the summer days basking in the cool ocean breeze from the deck or take a stroll down to the beach and dive the iconic Tangalooma wrecks. After that, walk along the beach at sunset or join Tangalooma Island Resort’s Eco Rangers in hand feeding wild dolphins down by the jetty each evening.