Top Australian islands

Bathurst Island

Both of the Tiwi Islands have a special appeal all their own, rich in history and culture, but if you were to pick one, Bathurst edges ahead thanks to its annual combined football grand final and art sale, which takes place every March. Seriously fun stuff.

Phillip Island

Fairy penguins? Tick. Motorbikes? Tick. But motorsports and waterfowl are just the beginning of Victoria’s favourite island’s appeal. visitphillipisland.com

Stradbroke Island

Only an hour’s drive south-east from Brisbane, Stradbroke is surrounded by kilometres of sparkling coastline. It has a fascinating convict past and offers activities by the truckload. Get amongst it.

Lord Howe Island

With its laid-back attitude (we’re talking no locks on doors and shoes being optional here), lush scenery and bounteous wildlife, it’s easy to see why Lord Howe Island is a long-loved favourite among international and domestic travellers alike.

Rottnest Island

This protected reserve right off the coast of Perth is famed for its unbeatable beaches, blissful cycling, coral reefs and abundance of flora and fauna. It’s home to a pretty neat little bakery, too. rottnestisland.com

Bruny Island

If baby fur seals, white wallabies and fairy penguins push your buttons, then Bruny Island is the place for you. The Tasman Island teems with wildlife, not to mention rich bushland, a rugged coastline and interesting eats (its namesake dairy is one of the nation’s two raw-milk cheese producers).

King Island

No beach umbrellas and tiki drinks here. King Island, located about halfway between Tasmania and mainland Victoria, is cool at the best of times, but the dramatic backdrop and top-end produce compensate for the lack of tropical weather any day.

Kangaroo Island

Has Kangaroo Island got it all? It’s certainly close with its luxe lodgings, fabulous food and wine scene, exotic wildlife and stunning Southern Ocean vistas. A must-visit for food- and nature-lovers alike.

Maria Island

This mountainous little island off the coast of Tasmania is a hit among trekkers, with its isolated beaches, dense forests and old penal colony structures. A real gem. parks.tas.gov.au

Norfolk Island

This charming island off the north coast of New South Wales is dotted with secluded beaches, historic ruins and protected forest. At just two and a half hours from Sydney and two hours from Brisbane by plane, it makes for a sweet long weekend escape too. norfolkisland.com.au