The 8 most beautiful islands to explore in Australia

If you haven't heard of the Cocos Keeling Islands, you're not alone. This little-known tropical paradise is an Australian external territory that lies a few thousand kilometres off the coast of Darwin, deep in the Indian Ocean. Made up of 27 pristine islands (only two of which are inhabited), this coral attol is arranged in a natural, perfect circle. Think glass-blue water, sugary white sand, swaying palm trees and some of the best snorkelling and diving in the world. Home to a tiny local Coco Malay population who speak a Malay dialect, this is an incredibly vibrant, beautiful and unique corner of the world – and it's just on mainland Australia's doorstep. 

Recently named as the world's second-best 'must visit' region by Lonely Planet, South Australia's Kangaroo Island (also known as Karta Pintingga) is pretty special. Full of pristine beaches, this open-air wildlife sanctuary is perfect for all those keen on seeing native Aussie animals at their happiest in the wild. With perfect beaches, seal colonies, cuddly koalas and a seriously delicious local food and wine scene, this third-largest island in Australia is a fail-safe place for good times. Plus, its home to a beach that took out Tourism Australia's prize for best beach in the nation in 2023.

Rugged, tropical and seriously beautiful, Lord Howe is an island that we all want to try hop to at least once in our lives. Located off the coast of NSW, this easily-accessible paradise only allows 400 people in at a time. With no mobile reception here, you’ll have space to breathe as you visit incredible natural attractions and mingle with the hundreds of animal species that call this island home. Whether it's exploring secret beaches, swimming with rainbow fish or eating incredible food, this is paradise – in the truest sense of the word.

Just a zippy 30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle (or 90 minutes from the Perth CBD), Rottnest Island is one of Western Australia's greatest gems. Also known by its local Aboriginal name, Wadjemup, and ‘Rotto’ by locals, it’s an essential addition to any Perth trip. Out-of-towners may know Rottnest for its friendly population of quokkas, but the island is also home to the most incredible azure blue waters you’ll come across, and nowadays, it has a selection of top-notch eateries and luxe accommodation, as well as camping grounds, cafés and low-key restaurants for the budget-conscious. 

A short boat ride away from Darwin in the Northern Territory, the Tiwi Islands are also known as the 'Island of Smiles'. You need a special permit to visit the Tiwis (although you can do this easily with a guided tour from Darwin), as this is privately-owned, Aboriginal Land. Made up of two main islands, the Tiwis are alive with a vibrant, rainbow tapestry of art, biodiversity and ancient culture that you'll feel lucky to get a look in at. Go for a day – or stay for a few. This place is pretty special. 

Once known as Fraser Island, K'gari is easily reachable from Brisbane by air, road or water, and is one of Australia's most popular island destinations for a reason. Known for being the largest sand island on Earth, K'gari also boasts the fourth most crystal-clear waters in Oceania. You would have to run three marathons to get from one end to the other, leaving room for lots of dips in the sparkling waters and a long sun bake on the soft white sands. 

If you're craving the freshest air in the world, succulent oysters, savvy B and eating handmade cheese in the bush – you're going to need to put Bruny on your island list. Located just under two hours from Hobart's CBD, Bruny is the crispest jewel in the Apple Isle's crown. Dance on wild and secluded beaches, go on staggeringly beautiful bushwalks, eat and drink some of the best local food and wine you'll get in your life, and generally immerse yourself in a place that'll make you forget emails exist. You'll probably see a dolphin too – and a whale if you're lucky. 

The Great Barrier Reef in Queensland is host to a multitude of perfect islands – however, Lizard Island is arguably one of its best. Fringed by gorgeous, secluded beaches and lapped by the warm, turquoise waters of the Coral Sea, Lizard Island is your traditional, island paradise, with a twist of resort thrown into the mix. Sadly, this one's for the bougier of us. Only accessible via private charter from Cairns Airport, you'll have to fork out a bit for transport there – but if you've got the cash, it's worth it. Whether you camp, or sleep in luxury at Lizard Island Resort, this isolated wonderland is next to some of the best diving spots on the Reef, and therefore, the world.