White-sand beaches that stretch for miles, turquoise lagoons teeming with marine life, and exclusive lodges set on remote coral cays — Australia’s East Coast islands are nothing short of spectacular. Scattered from the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef to the Coral Sea’s outer edge, these islands offer a diverse portfolio of experiences to match every travel style.
Some islands are accessible via a scenic helicopter flight or small aircraft, like Lizard Island or Orpheus Island. Others, like Fitzroy or Green Island, are just a short ferry ride from Cairns. Guests can dive alongside manta rays off Lady Elliot, hike through the rainforest trails of Fitzroy, or unwind in an oceanfront eco-lodge on Heron or Wilson Island. For clients seeking true exclusivity, private island stays on Haggerstone or Bedarra Island deliver barefoot luxury in the purest sense.
From couples’ getaways to nature-focused adventures and high-end honeymoon escapes, these islands combine exceptional hospitality with unforgettable natural surroundings. Each property — whether it’s the deluxe Lizard Island Resort, the sustainable charm of Lady Elliot Eco Resort, or the intimate villas of Haggerstone — offers something unique, making these destinations ideal additions to any tailor-made Queensland itinerary.
Nestled in the turquoise waters of the Tasman Sea, Lord Howe Island is a natural treasure lying 600 km east of the Australian mainland in the Tasman Sea, a two-hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane. Just 11 km long and blessed with dramatic volcanic peaks, pristine beaches, and lush subtropical forests, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed island offers an escape into an untouched paradise. With visitor numbers capped at just 400 at any one time, Lord Howe promises tranquility, exclusivity, and a deep connection with nature. A haven for hikers, the island's crown jewel is Mount Gower. This challenging full-day trek takes adventurous travelers 875 metres above sea level, rewarding them with mist forests, endemic wildlife, and one of the most breathtaking views in Australia. For those seeking gentler paths, the walk to Malabar Hill and Kim’s Lookout offers sweeping ocean vistas and a chance to spot seabird colonies. The surrounding lagoon, protected by the world’s southernmost coral reef, makes for world-class snorkeling and diving. At Ned’s Beach, you can hand-feed tropical fish in crystal-clear shallows—a delight for all ages. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and guided nature tours round out a vibrant outdoor itinerary. Unlike many other island getaways, Lord Howe maintains a charming, low-key character. There are no high-rise resorts or nightlife scenes—just golden sands, starlit skies, and birdsong. Its well-preserved environment is thanks to careful conservation policies, which have made the island one of Australia's great ecotourism destinations.
Where to Stay on Lord Howe Island:
Getting to Lord Howe Island:
Lord Howe Island is accessible primarily by air. QantasLink operates regular flights from Sydney, with a flight duration of approximately two hours. During peak seasons, limited services may also be available from Brisbane. Additionally, Eastern Air Services offers flights from Port Macquarie, Newcastle, and the Gold Coast. No commercial ferry services exist due to the island’s remote location; the only sea access is via infrequent cargo ships, taking up to three days from mainland Australia.
Just a short ferry ride from Brisbane lies Moreton Island, a natural haven boasting pristine beaches, towering sand dunes, and crystal-clear waters. Covering 186 square kilometers, it's the third-largest sand island in the world and offers a blend of adventure and relaxation for all visitors. One of the island's main attractions is the Tangalooma Wrecks, a series of 15 ships deliberately sunk to form a breakwall. Over time, these wrecks have become a vibrant marine ecosystem, making them a popular spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. For thrill-seekers, the island's vast sand dunes provide the perfect setting for sand tobogganing and quad biking. Nature lovers can explore the island's diverse landscapes, from freshwater lakes like Blue Lagoon to the lush bushland teeming with native wildlife. A highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to hand-feed wild bottlenose dolphins at sunset, an experience offered by the Tangalooma Island Resort. This unique interaction is both memorable and educational, emphasizing the importance of marine conservation.
Where to Stay on Moreton Island: Tangalooma Island Resort — Moderate
Tangalooma Island Resort offers a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. Guests can choose from hotel rooms, self-contained units, villas, and beachfront apartments, many of which provide stunning views of Moreton Bay.
The resort is well-equipped with amenities, including multiple dining venues, swimming pools, and recreational facilities. With over 75 tours and activities available, guests can tailor their stay to be as relaxed or adventurous as they desire.
Getting to Moreton Island:
Moreton Island is easily accessible from Brisbane. The Tangalooma Island Resort operates a passenger ferry service (and tours) from the Holt Street Wharf in Pinkenba, Brisbane, with a journey time of approximately 75 minutes. For those wishing to bring their own vehicles, the MICAT ferry departs from the Port of Brisbane and transports both passengers and 4WD vehicles to the island. It's important to note that Moreton Island has no sealed roads, so a 4WD vehicle is essential for exploration beyond the resort area.
K'gari, meaning "paradise" in the Butchulla language, is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed island renowned for its unique natural beauty, stretching over 120 km along Queensland’s coast, just off Hervey Bay. Accessible by ferry from River Heads or Inskip Point, it is the largest sand island globally and boasts a diverse range of ecosystems, including rainforests, freshwater lakes, and coastal heaths.
Visitors can explore the island's iconic sites such as Lake McKenzie, a perched lake with crystal-clear waters; the Maheno Shipwreck, a relic of a 1935 cyclone; and the vibrant sand cliffs known as The Cathedrals. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including dingoes, wallabies, and over 350 species of birds.
SeaLink offers a comprehensive package, encompassing ferry transfers from Hervey Bay, guided 4WD tours across the island and accommodation at Kingfisher Bay Resort. The tours are conducted in air-conditioned, custom-built 4WD coaches. To cater to international visitors, a multilingual audio guide is provided through the K'gari Explorer Tours App with audio and script translations in English, , Spanish, French, Italian, and German.
Where to Stay on K'gari:
Located on the western side of the island, Kingfisher Bay Resort offers eco-friendly accommodations nestled among native bushland. The resort features hotel rooms and self-contained villas, four lagoon-style swimming pools, three restaurants, and a full-service spa. Guests can participate in ranger-guided tours, 4WD adventures, and enjoy the resort's unique light show, "Illumina," which tells the story of the island's formation.
Situated on the eastern beach of the island, K'gari Beach Resort (formerly Eurong Beach Resort) provides easy access to the island's eastern attractions. The resort offers a range of accommodations, from hotel rooms to apartments, and features a swimming pool, bakery, and general store. Its location makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby sites such as Eli Creek and the Maheno Shipwreck.
Getting to K'gari :
K'gari is accessible via ferry services from River Heads, near Hervey Bay, and Inskip Point, near Rainbow Beach. Ferries from River Heads take approximately 30 minutes to reach the island and are operated by SeaLink, with regular departures to Kingfisher Bay Resort and Wanggoolba Creek. From Inskip Point, the Manta Ray Barge runs a continuous service to Hook Point, with crossings taking about 10 minutes. Only high-clearance 4WD vehicles are permitted on the island, and a Vehicle Access Permit is required.
Great Keppel Island lies just 30 minutes by ferry from Yeppoon on Queensland’s Capricorn Coast. Covering 14.5 km², it boasts 17 white-sand beaches and turquoise waters ideal for snorkelling, kayaking, and bushwalking. With no cars and a laid-back vibe, it’s perfect for families and nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape.
Located just north of the Tropic of Capricorn, the island offers a diverse range of marine life and coral reefs, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the island's interior through various bushwalking tracks, leading to secluded beaches and spectacular lookouts. The island's rich biodiversity includes over 90 species of birds, such as white-breasted sea eagles and rainbow lorikeets, as well as native wildlife like brush-tailed possums and goannas. Marine life is abundant, with dolphins often seen close to the main beaches during winter months and humpback whales visible in Keppel Bay waters from April to November.
Where to Stay : Great Keppel Island Hideaway — Moderate
Great Keppel Island Hideaway offers a range of budget-friendly accommodations suitable for singles, couples, families, and groups. Options include beachfront cabins, island cabins, garden rooms, and motel-style rooms, all designed to provide a comfortable and relaxed stay. The resort promotes a digital detox experience, with no Wi-Fi or TVs in the rooms, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the island's natural beauty.
The on-site Bar & Bistro serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, offering a variety of meals with stunning views over Putney Beach and Fisherman Beach. Guests can enjoy live music events throughout the year, as well as a host of activities including snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and guided bushwalks.
For those seeking a tranquil island getaway with easy access to the Southern Great Barrier Reef's natural wonders, Great Keppel Island Hideaway provides an ideal retreat.
Getting to Great Keppel Island:
Great Keppel Island is accessible via a 30-minute ferry ride from Keppel Bay Marina in Yeppoon, Queensland. Ferry services, operated by Keppel Konnections, offer multiple daily departures, making it convenient for both day-trippers and overnight guests. For those traveling from Rockhampton, it's approximately a 45-minute drive to Yeppoon, with various transport options available, including car, buses, and Queensland Rail.
Magnetic Island is located just 8 km off the coast of Townsville and is easily reached by a 20-minute ferry ride. Covering 52 km², it blends rugged bushland with over 20 sandy beaches and is home to one of Australia’s largest wild koala populations.
Affectionately known as "Maggie" by locals, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and laid-back charm, home to a variety of wildlife.. Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting species like the bush stone-curlew and the rainbow lorikeet. The surrounding waters, part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, are teeming with marine life, making snorkeling and diving popular activities.
For those seeking adventure, the island boasts an extensive network of walking trails, such as the Forts Walk, which offers panoramic views and historical World War II sites. Water-based activities abound, from kayaking and jet-skiing to sailing and fishing. Alternatively, visitors can simply relax on secluded beaches, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Where to Stay on Magnetic Island:
Situated in Arcadia, Daggoombah Holiday House is a classic Queenslander-style home that comfortably accommodates up to five guests. The two-story house features polished wooden floors, high ceilings, and louvered windows, providing a breezy, tropical atmosphere. Guests can enjoy modern amenities, a spacious verandah, and proximity to Alma Bay Beach, shops, and restaurants.
Located in Nelly Bay, the Grand Mercure Apartments offer self-contained accommodations with stunning ocean views. The property features multiple swimming pools, including an infinity pool, and is within walking distance to the ferry terminal, shops, and dining options. Ideal for families and couples seeking a comfortable and convenient stay.
Nestled on the beachfront of Nelly Bay, Nomads offers a vibrant hostel experience with a range of accommodations, from shared dorms to private rooms. The property boasts a lively bar, communal kitchen, and regular social events, making it a favorite among backpackers and solo travelers. Its beachfront location provides easy access to water activities and stunning sunsets.
Formerly known as Selina Magnetic Island, Roamer is located near Horseshoe Bay and offers a unique blend of accommodations, including camping, dormitories, and private rooms. The property features a swimming pool, wellness deck, co-working space, and an on-site wildlife park where guests can interact with native Australian animals. Daily wellness classes and a vibrant community atmosphere make it an ideal spot for digital nomads and eco-conscious travelers.
Getting to Magnetic Island:
Magnetic Island is located approximately 8 kilometers offshore from Townsville, Queensland. Access to the island is primarily via ferry services. Sealink Queensland operates a passenger ferry from Townsville to Nelly Bay, with a journey time of about 20 minutes. For those wishing to bring vehicles, Magnetic Island Ferries offers a car ferry service, taking approximately 40 minutes. Once on the island, a public bus service connects major bays and attractions, making it convenient for visitors to explore.
Hamilton Island, located in the heart of the Whitsundays, lies just 55 minutes by air from Brisbane or a short ferry ride from Airlie Beach. Covering 5 km², it’s the only Whitsunday island with its own commercial airport. With no cars, palm-fringed beaches, world-class resorts, and direct access to the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island is a peaceful yet vibrant destination offering both adventure and relaxation in a uniquely Australian setting.
Getting to Hamilton Island :
Hamilton Island is accessible by air and sea. The Hamilton Island Airport (HTI) receives direct flights from major Australian cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Cairns, operated by Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar. For those arriving by sea, ferry services from Airlie Beach provide a scenic route to the island. Upon arrival, guests benefit from complimentary transfers to their accommodations.
Where to Stay on Hamilton Island:
Deluxe
First Class
Moderate
Economy
Hamilton Island's diverse accommodations, combined with its natural wonders and array of activities, make it a versatile destination catering to various traveler preferences.
Hayman Island is the northernmost of the Whitsundays, located 33 km off the coast of Airlie Beach and accessible via luxury boat or 15-minute helicopter from Hamilton Island. Just 4 km² in size, this private island is renowned for its exclusivity, serene atmosphere, and lush tropical scenery. Home to the prestigious InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, it offers secluded beaches, five-star experiences, and direct access to the Great Barrier Reef.
Getting to Hayman Island:
Hayman Island is accessible via Hamilton Island Airport (HTI), which receives direct flights from major Australian cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Cairns. From Hamilton Island, guests can reach Hayman Island through a 60-minute luxury boat transfer, a 15-minute helicopter ride, or a seaplane journey. These transfers are arranged by the resort and offer scenic views of the Whitsundays.
Where to Stay: InterContinental Hayman Island Resort – Deluxe
The InterContinental Hayman Island Resort offers an exclusive and immersive luxury experience. The resort features 182 elegantly appointed rooms, suites, villas, and residences, each designed to harmonize with the island's natural beauty. Accommodations are distributed across four distinct wings—Pool, Lagoon, Beach, and Pavilion—providing guests with a variety of scenic vistas and settings.
Guests can indulge in a range of experiences, from snorkeling in vibrant coral gardens and exploring secluded beaches to enjoying private helicopter tours over iconic sites like Heart Reef. The resort's five dining venues—Pacific, Amici, Aqua, Bam Bam, and Grove Boutique & Café—offer diverse culinary delights, including Pan-Asian cuisine, wood-fired pizzas, and gourmet seafood platters.
For relaxation, the Hayman Spa provides a serene retreat with treatments inspired by the island's natural surroundings. Additionally, the resort offers various wellness activities, including yoga classes and fitness programs.
Long Island, part of the Whitsundays and just 9 km off the coast from Shute Harbour, is the closest island to the mainland. Only 9 km long and largely covered by national park, it offers walking trails through lush rainforest and secluded beaches. Peaceful and eco-conscious, Long Island is known for its laid-back charm and intimate retreats like Elysian Eco Retreat, making it ideal for couples and nature lovers seeking tranquility and connection to the reef.
Getting to Long Island and Elysian Eco Retreat:
Elysian Eco Retreat, situated on the southern tip of Long Island, is accessible via both air and sea. Guests can opt for a 10-minute helicopter flight from either Hamilton Island or Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach, offering panoramic views of the Whitsunday Islands and Conway National Park. Alternatively, boat transfers are available: a 30-minute journey from Shute Harbour or a 45-minute trip from Hamilton Island. For those arriving from Hamilton Island, a combination of ferry and private transfer is also an option, involving a ferry to Daydream Island followed by a 30-minute SeaLegs amphibious vessel ride to Elysian.
Where to Stay: Elysian Eco Retreat – Deluxe
Nestled within a private three-hectare cove on Long Island, Elysian Eco Retreat offers an exclusive and tranquil escape in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. As the first 100% solar-powered resort in the Whitsundays, Elysian embodies sustainable luxury, harmoniously blending with its natural surroundings.
The retreat accommodates a maximum of 20 adult guests across 10 oceanfront villas, each thoughtfully designed to provide uninterrupted views of the Coral Sea and the surrounding rainforest. Villas feature private decks, outdoor showers, and daybeds, creating a serene environment for relaxation.
Elysian's all-inclusive experience encompasses gourmet meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients, daily yoga sessions, and unlimited use of water sports equipment, including stand-up paddleboards, glass-bottom kayaks, and snorkeling gear. Guests can explore the island's natural beauty through guided nature walks, bird watching, and bushland trails leading to panoramic lookouts.
The on-site Ayurvedic-inspired day spa, Jala, offers a range of treatments utilizing organic products, aiming to rejuvenate the mind and body. For those seeking adventure beyond the island, Elysian provides curated experiences such as private helicopter tours over Heart Reef, sailing excursions to Whitehaven Beach, and cultural tours exploring the heritage of the Ngaro people.
Elysian Eco Retreat stands as a testament to eco-conscious luxury, offering guests an intimate connection with nature while providing exceptional comfort and service.
Daydream Island is a small, easily accessible Whitsunday gem, located just 5 km from the mainland and only a 30-minute ferry ride from Airlie Beach. Barely 1 km long, it offers a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere with coral beaches, rainforest trails, and the unique Living Reef — a man-made lagoon home to over 100 species of marine life. It’s a perfect mix of relaxation and reef discovery, ideal for short getaways and nature-filled escapes.
Getting to Daydream Island:
Daydream Island is conveniently accessible via ferry services from the mainland. Cruise Whitsundays operates regular transfers from the Port of Airlie, with a scenic 30-minute journey to the island. Additionally, a new direct ferry service from Shute Harbour Marine Terminal offers a quicker 15-minute ride to Daydream Island, providing guests with flexible travel options.
Where to Stay: Daydream Island Resort – Moderate
Nestled in the heart of Whitsunday Islands, Daydream Island Resort offers a tranquil escape with stunning views of the Great Barrier Reef. The resort features 240 modern rooms and suites, each designed to reflect the island's natural beauty and provide guests with comfort and relaxation .
A highlight of the resort is the Living Reef, a unique open-air aquarium that allows guests to interact with over 100 species of marine life. Activities include snorkeling with rays and sharks, guided fish feeding, and educational programs, making it an ideal destination for families and marine enthusiasts .
Dining options at the resort cater to various tastes, with restaurants like Graze, offering buffet-style meals, and Infinity, serving modern Asian cuisine. For a more casual experience, guests can enjoy light meals and beverages at the poolside bar.
Beyond the resort's amenities, Daydream Island offers a range of activities, including rainforest walks, water sports, and access to nearby attractions like Whitehaven Beach.
Heron Island is a coral cay located 80 km off the coast of Gladstone, in the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Just 800 metres long, it’s famed for its rich biodiversity, nesting turtles, and world-class snorkelling right off the beach. With no day visitors and a strong focus on conservation, it offers an immersive nature experience where guests sleep surrounded by seabirds, coral gardens, and the rhythm of the reef.
Natural Attractions
Heron Island is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts:
Activities
Guests can engage in a range of activities that highlight the island's natural beauty:
Where to Stay: Heron Island Resort — Moderate
Heron Island Resort offers comfortable accommodations that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The resort features a variety of room types, from beachfront suites to garden rooms, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Amenities:
Heron Island Resort is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic nature experience within the Great Barrier Reef in a unique setting.
Getting to to Heron Island:
Heron Island is located approximately 80 kilometers northeast of Gladstone, Queensland, and is accessible via both sea and air.
By Air: Travelers can fly from major Australian cities to Gladstone Airport (GLT) with airlines such as Qantas and Virgin Australia. From Gladstone Airport, guests can reach Heron Island by:
Please note that there is currently no shuttle service between Gladstone Airport and the ferry terminal; guests will need to arrange their own transportation.
Lady Elliot Island sits at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef, 85 km from Bundaberg. This small coral cay is a haven for marine life, with manta rays, turtles, and over 1,200 species of fish thriving in its protected 'Green Zone'. Accessible only by scenic flight, the island is a model of sustainability and reef conservation. Its clear waters and rich marine biodiversity make it one of Australia's top snorkelling and diving destinations. Visitors can expect to encounter:
The island offers over 20 dive sites, catering to both novice and experienced divers.
Activities and Experiences
Lady Elliot Island provides a range of activities designed to immerse guests in its natural beauty:
Where to Stay: Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort — Economy
The Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort offers comfortable, eco-friendly accommodations designed to minimize environmental impact. The resort features:
All stays include meals, snorkelling equipment, guided tours, and educational presentations.
Lady Elliot Island stands as a testament to sustainable tourism, offering guests an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you're snorkelling alongside manta rays, witnessing turtle hatchlings, or simply relaxing on the coral beaches, the island promises an unforgettable experience.
Getting to Lady Elliot Island:
Lady Elliot Island is exclusively accessible by air, with scenic flights operated by Seair Pacific. These flights depart from several locations in Queensland.
Flights are arranged in coordination with accommodation bookings at Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort.
Wilson Island is a tiny, secluded coral cay located 80 km off the coast of Gladstone, accessible only via Heron Island. Just 5 acres in size, it hosts no more than 18 guests at a time, offering a truly exclusive eco-retreat. Surrounded by protected reef waters, the island is a sanctuary for turtles and seabirds, with pristine beaches and no internet or phone signal. It’s a rare, off-grid escape where nature and barefoot luxury go hand in hand. Wilson Island is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts:
Activities
Guests can engage in various activities that highlight the island's natural offerings:
Please note that there are no diving facilities on the island.
Where to Stay: Wilson Island Resort — Moderate
The island features nine Reef Safari Tents, each designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment while providing comfort.
The island operates without Wi-Fi or mobile reception, encouraging guests to disconnect and immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
Getting to Wilson Island:
Wilson Island is a secluded coral cay located approximately 80 km northeast of Gladstone. Access to the island is exclusively via Heron Island, which serves as the gateway for all guests.
Step 1: Travel to Heron Island
Step 2: Transfer to Wilson Island
Upon arrival at Heron Island, guests are met for a 25-minute boat transfer to Wilson Island. This transfer involves a beach landing, so guests should be prepared to disembark directly onto the sand.
Fitzroy Island is a lush, mountainous island located just 29 km from Cairns, accessible by a 45-minute ferry ride. Covered 95% by national park, it offers rainforest hikes, coral beaches, and direct access to fringing reefs perfect for snorkelling. At 11.6 km², it’s large enough for adventure yet peaceful and laid-back. Its mix of reef and rainforest makes it ideal for families, hikers, and nature lovers seeking a quick island escape from the mainland. Its highest point reaching 240 meters above sea level.
Natural Attractions
Activities
Where to Stay: Fitzroy Island Resort — Moderate
Fitzroy Island Resort provides a range of accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets:
The resort's facilities include an outdoor pool with a swim-up bar, Zephyr Restaurant, Foxy's Bar, a general store, and a tour desk. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the hotel reception common areas.
Getting to Fitzroy Island:
Fitzroy Island is conveniently located 29 kilometers southeast of Cairns, Queensland, making it an ideal destination for both day trips and extended stays.
By Ferry:
The island is accessible via a 45-minute ferry ride from Cairns. Multiple operators provide daily services.
All ferries depart from the Cairns Marlin Marina, with check-in locations varying by operator. It's advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
Green Island is a small coral cay just 27 km off the coast of Cairns, accessible in 45 minutes by catamaran. Only 15 hectares in size, it’s one of the few islands on the Great Barrier Reef with both rainforest and reef ecosystems. It’s one of the few coral cays on the reef that supports a thriving rainforest. As you step off the boat or helicopter, you're greeted by the fusion of white coral sands, clear turquoise waters, and the rustling canopy of dense rainforest. A designated Marine National Park Zone surrounds the island, making it ideal for snorkeling and diving directly from the beach. Just steps from the shoreline, you’ll find sea turtles, giant clams, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. Green Island is especially popular for its easy access to reef experiences. Snorkeling, scuba diving, helmet diving, and semi-submarine tours are available for all levels. A highlight is the Glass Bottom Boat Tour, which glides over coral gardens teeming with marine life. On land, visitors can follow rainforest boardwalks, spot over 60 bird species, or visit the Marineland Melanesia aquarium and crocodile park. A unique blend of ecosystems – reef, beach, and rainforest – makes this island a microcosm of Queensland’s natural wonders. Yet despite its popularity, Green Island remains serene in the late afternoon, after day-trippers depart.
Where to Stay: Green Island Resort — First Class
The only place to stay on the island, Green Island Resort is a luxurious eco-sensitive retreat that caters to guests seeking exclusivity and immersion in nature. It offers just 46 rooms nestled beneath the rainforest canopy:
Guests of the resort enjoy after-hours access to the island, private beach lounging, sunset drinks, and guided nature walks. Dining is offered at Emeralds Restaurant, showcasing fresh seafood and modern Australian cuisine. The resort also features a freshwater swimming pool, a bar, and a spa treatment service for relaxation after a day exploring the reef.
Getting to Green Island:
Green Island is one of the most accessible islands on the Great Barrier Reef, located just 27 kilometers northeast of Cairns. It is accessible by boat or air:
Orpheus Island is a remote tropical hideaway located 80 km north of Townsville, accessible only by helicopter. This 1,300-hectare national park island hosts just one exclusive lodge, ensuring total privacy for a maximum of 28 guests. Surrounded by fringing reefs and calm, clear waters, it’s ideal for snorkelling, kayaking, and secluded beach picnics. Peaceful, luxurious, and off the radar, Orpheus Island is the epitome of barefoot luxury on the Great Barrier Reef.
Guests at Orpheus Island Lodge can indulge in a variety of complimentary activities :
Culinary experiences at Orpheus Island Lodge are a highlight, with all meals included :
Where to Stay: Orpheus Island Lodge — Deluxe
Orpheus Island Lodge offers an all-inclusive, boutique experience with accommodation for up to 28 guests across 14 contemporary suites and villas.
North Beachfront Villas: Ideal for families, featuring spacious living areas and direct beach access.
With its commitment to personalized service, sustainable practices, and immersive natural experiences, Orpheus Island Lodge stands as a premier destination for discerning travelers seeking luxury and serenity within the Great Barrier Reef.
Getting to Orpheus Island:
Orpheus Island is a secluded paradise located within the Great Barrier Reef, approximately 80 kilometers north of Townsville. Access to the island is exclusively via a scenic helicopter flight.
These transfers are arranged through the resort and provide a breathtaking introduction to the island's pristine beauty.
Lizard Island lies 240 km north of Cairns and is accessible only by scenic flight, taking around an hour. Surrounded by 24 private beaches and located within a national park, this 1,000-hectare island offers complete seclusion and direct access to the northern Great Barrier Reef. With world-class snorkelling, diving at the famous Cod Hole, and a luxurious all-inclusive resort, Lizard Island is a premier destination for privacy, nature, and reef exploration.
Where to Stay: Lizard Island Resort — Deluxe
Lizard Island Resort offers an exclusive all-inclusive experience with only 40 rooms, suites, and villas, ensuring privacy and personalized service. Accommodations are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, featuring elegant interiors and stunning views.
Dining at the resort emphasizes fresh, local produce, with meals served at the Saltwater Restaurant and options for private beachside picnics. Guests can also enjoy amenities such as a spa, fitness center, and access to non-motorized water sports equipment.
Lizard Island offers a unique opportunity to experience the Great Barrier Reef in a secluded and luxurious setting, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Getting to Lizard Island:
Lizard Island is located approximately 240 kilometers north of Cairns, and is accessible exclusively by air. The primary mode of transportation is a scenic one-hour flight from Cairns Airport, offering breathtaking views over the Great Barrier Reef. These flights are typically arranged through the resort at the time of booking.
Haggerstone Island is an ultra-remote private island located off Cape York Peninsula, about 600 km north of Cairns. Accessible via charter flight and boat, it offers an exclusive, off-grid experience for just a handful of guests. Surrounded by untouched reef and wilderness, this 42-hectare island is known for its wild beauty, abundant marine life, and rustic-luxe villas. It’s a true frontier escape — intimate, adventurous, and deeply connected to nature.
Established by Roy and Anna Turner in 1985, the resort emphasizes sustainability and personalized experiences. Guests can engage in a variety of activities, including snorkeling, spearfishing, beachcombing, and deep-sea fishing. The island's remote location ensures an abundance of marine life, offering opportunities to encounter sea turtles, manta rays, and diverse tropical fish species. For those seeking adventure, the resort provides access to jet skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and helicopter tours to explore nearby waterfalls and sand cays.
Where to Stay: Haggerstone Island Resort — Unique
Haggerstone Island Resort offers five individually designed beachfront villas, each blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings and reflecting influences from Papua New Guinea and African design.
All accommodations are equipped with private decks, tropical gardens, and offer direct access to the beach and ocean views
Getting to Haggerstone Island:
Haggerstone Island is located approximately 600 kilometers north of Cairns, Queensland, near the Cape York Peninsula. Access to the island is exclusively via air and sea.
