{"id":5338,"date":"2018-05-14T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2018-05-13T14:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/?p=5338"},"modified":"2020-04-02T05:35:19","modified_gmt":"2020-04-01T19:35:19","slug":"10-au-island-escapes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/australia\/10-au-island-escapes\/","title":{"rendered":"10 epic island escapes – no passport required!"},"content":{"rendered":"

Australia is home to 8,222 islands, yet according to our Wot\u2019s Your Journey Report, the vast majority of Aussies take their island and beach holidays overseas. Can you believe it? With so many diverse landscapes and such incredible beauty just off our mainland, you don\u2019t need a passport for an incredible island getaway. Here are ten of our favourites.<\/p>\n

1. Bremer Island, NT<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

This remote island off the northeastern coast of the Northern Territory is where to go if you want to disconnect and get back to basics. Whether you\u2019re looking to relax or explore, Bremer is famous for its natural beaches, rich culture and incredible fishing, all just a 15-minute flight from Gove Airport.<\/p>\n

Insider tip:<\/strong> May to October is the best time to visit Bremer Island and four days is usually enough time to tick off all the biggest must-sees and must-dos.<\/p>\n

Where to stay:<\/strong> Banubanu Beach Retreat<\/a> is an eco-escape built in partnership with the Yolgnu people. It\u2019s the only tourist facility on the island, with a maximum occupancy of 16 people, so make sure you book ahead.<\/p>\n

2. Bruny Island, TAS<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

This humble, low-key island off the southeastern coast of Tasmania is a nature lovers retreat, with an abundance of wildlife, some of Australia\u2019s highest sea cliffs and Australia\u2019s \u2018Breathing Rock\u2019. No trip to Bruny Island is complete without sampling the island\u2019s local produce, which includes berries, oysters and artisan cheese.<\/p>\n

A view of the highest sea cliffs in the country<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Insider tip:<\/strong> Bruny Island is the perfect cosy getaway during the winter months and many Aussies are catching on, with year-on-on-year interest on Wotif up nearly 40% for this July*.<\/p>\n

Where to stay:<\/strong> South Bruny Island is the best area to stay \u2013 it\u2019s where you\u2019ll find most tourist attractions, including the Cape Bruny Lighthouse. Alonnah and Adventure Bay are two of the main towns, with a number of boutique apartments and cottages, including Mandala Bruny Island<\/a> and 43 Degrees Bruny Island<\/a>.<\/p>\n

3. Kangaroo Island, SA<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Surrounded by shimmering oceans, white sands and untamed bushland, Kangaroo Island is one of Australia\u2019s most beautiful places. Over a third of the island’s landmass is reserved for wildlife conservation areas and national parks, and it\u2019s home to more than 1,500 different animals, which means you\u2019re bound to see a kangaroo bouncing through the lush wilderness. In fact, Kingscote \u2013 Kangaroo Island\u2019s largest town \u2013 was voted the top town to spot a kangaroo by Wotif travellers<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Even Skippy enjoys a Kangaroo Island sunset<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Insider tip:<\/strong> June is one of the cheapest times to visit Kangaroo Island \u2013 the predicted accommodation rate is just $169 per night. Travelling in June instead of April, when the average rate is $219 per night, could save you 30% or more**.<\/div>\n

Where to stay:<\/strong> Stay at Villas on the Bay<\/a> in the main town of Kingscote. Lindsays of Kangaroo Island<\/a> in Penneshaw is another great option, just a few kilometres from the SeaLink Ferry Terminal.<\/p>\n

4. Long Island, QLD<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Long Island \u2013 one of Queensland\u2019s famous Whitsunday Islands \u2013 will have you thinking you\u2019re much further away from home than you really are. Just nine kilometres in length and only 400m wide at its widest point, this stunning little slice of heaven manages to pack in 13 kilometres of walking tracks, along with pristine beaches, coconut palms and lush green island views. From bushwalking to snorkelling, there is so much to see and do.<\/p>\n

Your island paradise awaits<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Insider tip:<\/strong> You\u2019d best be quick if you want to explore this island paradise before the masses catch on. On Wotif, its year-on-year interest is up a whopping 280%!<\/div>\n

Where to stay:<\/strong> Palm Bay Resort<\/a> is a gorgeous option, with Balinese-style accommodation on the water\u2019s edge, along with a full-service spa, tennis court and swimming pool.<\/p>\n

5. Lord Howe Island, NSW<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

With only 400 visitors allowed on the island at any one time, the World Heritage-listed paradise of Lord Howe Island is perfect for when you need some serious peace and quiet. On the western side of the island, you\u2019ll find a sheltered lagoon that\u2019s home to the world’s most southerly coral reef, while the eastern side is heaven for surfers. Go for a bush walk, snorkel, cycle around the island, or just sit back on the beach and take in the gorgeous views.<\/p>\n

Ah, the serenity!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Insider tip:<\/strong> The island is fairly accessible, with QantasLink offering flights from Sydney on most days of the week and flights from Brisbane on weekends. They also offer some seasonal services from Port Macquarie every February through June and September through December. However, as accommodation is limited to 400 tourists, it\u2019s best you book your flights and accommodation at the same time so you don\u2019t miss out.<\/div>\n

Where to stay:<\/strong> Arajilla Retreat<\/a> is one of the main luxury resorts on the island, located on the northern end under a canopy of Kentia Palms and Banyan Trees. Alternatively, Milky Way Holiday Villas<\/a> is a good-value self-contained option.<\/p>\n

6. Magnetic Island, QLD<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Affectionately known as Maggie, Magnetic Island has earned a reputation as the sunniest place in the Sunshine State, with less annual rainfall than the Tropical North or the Whitsunday Islands. The name comes from Captain Cook, who believed the iron in the island\u2019s hills tinkered with his compass when he sailed past in 1770. Magnetic Island National Park covers just over half of the island and a hike will take you through rainforest, bushland and mangroves before headland lookouts with sweeping ocean views.<\/p>\n

Island paradise road trip, anyone?<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Insider tip:<\/strong> Magnetic Island is one of the most accessible islands, with easy access to the Great Barrier Reef. Just a 25-minute ferry from Townsville, the island also offers great value, with an average accommodation price of $191 per night**.<\/div>\n

Where to stay:<\/strong> Both Peppers Blue on Blue<\/a> and Grand Mercure Apartments Magnetic Island<\/a> are great, comfy options, with incredible views over Nelly Bay.<\/p>\n

7. Norfolk Island<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Norfolk Island is a tropical delight amid the waves of the Southwest Pacific Ocean. It\u2019s about parallel to Brisbane, so it enjoys comfortable temperatures of 18-25 degrees Celsius all year round. It\u2019s a great pick if you\u2019re travelling with kids, and Emily Bay \u2013 a turquoise lagoon with clear, warm water \u2013 is perfect for splashing around and picnics in the sand.<\/p>\n

A stunner of a view of the heritage listed buildings on the island<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Insider tip:<\/strong> Air New Zealand flies direct to Norfolk Island from Sydney and Brisbane twice a week.<\/div>\n

Where to stay:<\/strong> The Tin Sheds<\/a> are smack in the centre of Burnt Pine \u2013 Norfolk Island\u2019s largest town, with a great range of eateries and shops. For something a little more private, head to Shearwater Scenic Villas<\/a>. It\u2019s a secluded getaway spread across 16 acres of land, overlooking the ocean.<\/p>\n

8. Orpheus Island, QLD<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Orpheus Island is what holiday dreams are made of. Surrounded by coral reefs and national parks, Orpheus Island is one of the Great Barrier Reef\u2019s most romantic islands. While we won\u2019t judge you if all you do is laze around in hammocks and go swimming, there\u2019s also scuba diving, snorkelling, sunset cruises, and an on-site spa to keep you busy.<\/p>\n

Looks like it\u2019s cocktail o\u2019clock again<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Insider tip:<\/strong> If you want to splurge, Orpheus Island is for you. The only way to get there is via a private helicopter from Townsville or Cairns \u2013 talk about the VIP treatment! Just make sure you factor the transfer costs into your budget.<\/div>\n

Where to stay:<\/strong> Orpheus Island Lodge<\/a> is the island\u2019s only resort. With no more than 28 guests at any time, you\u2019ll feel as if you\u2019ve got the entire island to yourself.<\/p>\n

9. Phillip Island, VIC<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Phillip Island is one of Victoria\u2019s most popular islands and for good reason. Famous for its little penguins and motorcycle Grand Prix racing, it attracts a diverse mix of travellers. Chill out in the sleepy coastal towns of Cowes and San Remo. If you\u2019re brave, hang ten with Phillip Island\u2019s renowned surf.<\/p>\n

The view of Seal Rocks on the western tip of the island<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Insider tip:<\/strong> October is one of the island\u2019s busiest periods thanks to the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, so time your trip wisely. Luckily, the Penguin Parade takes place all year round.<\/div>\n

Where to stay:<\/strong> Phillip Island has a number of great, affordable accommodation options. Two great picks are the Ramada Resort Phillip Island<\/a> near the wildlife park and Phillip Island Apartments<\/a> closer to town.<\/p>\n

10. Rottnest Island, WA<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

The Aussie island that\u2019s becoming world famous thanks to its celebrity quokkas is also a picturesque escape that\u2019s just a 30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle. Perfect for all types of travellers, including families, Rotto is home to some of Australia\u2019s best swimming spots, including more than 63 secluded beaches and 20 bays.<\/p>\n

The locals are as curious as they are adorable<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Insider tip:<\/strong> A major expansion of Rottnest’s main resort, Hotel Rottnest<\/a>, has just been approved, so there will soon be an extra 80 rooms and four more pools to choose from.<\/p>\n

Where to stay:<\/strong> Hotel Rottnest<\/a> is smack in the centre of the island action, with two room types to choose from \u2013 the Courtside Room and the larger Bayside Room, which comes with a private courtyard.<\/p>\n

Sources:<\/strong>
\n*According to Wotif.com accommodation searches from 16 April 2017 to 16 April 2018 for travel dates from 4 July – 18 July 2018 compared to accommodation searches from 7 April 2016 to 7 April 2017 for travel dates 25 June to 9 July 2017.<\/em><\/p>\n

**Based on the average daily rate for 3 \u2013 5 star-rated and self-rated accommodation demand on Wotif.com between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2017 for travel from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2017 for the described destinations. Prices shown are in Australian dollars, booked on the Australian site, and are not necessarily the rates displayed on the site. Rates are subject to accommodation and date selections made.<\/em><\/p>\n

About Wotif\u2019s Wot\u2019s Your Journey Report<\/a>: The Leading Edge were engaged by Wotif to conduct research into understanding Australian travellers. The study was conducted across August to September 2017 and consisted of two components; 1. Online Community of 40 Australian travellers, 2. Online Survey completed by a nationally representative sample of 1,036 Australians travellers (who had all travelled and stayed in paid accommodation in the last two years on leisure holidays). The survey was conducted online among members of a permission-based panel, between 23 – 29 August 2017. After interviewing, data was weighted to the latest population estimates sourced from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Data was weighted to National Representative proportions to reflect the age, gender, and residential location of Australian travellers.
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Australia is home to 8,222 islands, yet according to our Wot\u2019s Your Journey Report, the vast majority of Aussies take their island and beach holidays overseas. Can you believe it? With so many diverse landscapes and such incredible beauty just off our mainland, you don\u2019t need a passport for an incredible island getaway. Here are …<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":5353,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[740,765],"tags":[],"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5338"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5338"}],"version-history":[{"count":14,"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5338\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5362,"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5338\/revisions\/5362"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5353"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5338"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5338"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wotif.com\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5338"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}