The Islands of Australia
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Australia
It's easy to see how Australia's islands reflect the laid-back, costal lifestyle we all strive to enjoy. From the untamed and adventurous to the private and posh, here are just a few island destinations that remind you that there's really nothing quite like Australia.
1. Lizard Island, 2. Hayman Island, 3. Heron Island, 4. Phillip Island, 5. Tasmania, 6. Kangaroo Island, 7. Fraser Island
Lizard Island
Fringed with colorful coral reefs and framed by 24 white sand beaches, Lizard Island is just a 60-min flight from Australia's tropical Cairns. Dive into the marine wonderland at the famous Cod Hole, and end the day with a gourmet picnic on the soft sands of a secluded cove.
Hayman Island
A gem of the Whitsunday Islands, recently renovated Hayman Island is one of the country's top 5-star resorts. Float on the waters of the Coral Sea during a signature Ocean Massage, explore the 74 nearby islands by sailboat, or hire a seaplane to fly to Whitehaven Beach, the whitest sand beach in the Pacific.
Heron Island
From the mainland, hop aboard a boat or helicopter for the short jaunt to Heron Island. As the only island on the reef located on a true coral cay, you'll have walk-up access to one of the world's best dive sites. From December to April, follow the sandy turtle tracks, as Heron is nesting ground for the reef's local sea turtles.
Phillip Island
The little penguins of Phillip Island love to hold parades. Every sunset, this wild bunch (one of the largest colonies in the world) emerges from the sea and waddle across the beach to their sand dune burrows. It's impossible to talk about Australia's islands without highlighting this natural spectacle just outside Melbourne.
Tasmania
Just across from Melbourne is Tasmania, Australia's largest island. Home to 17 national parks ranging from mountain peaks to pristine costal preserves, the island's majestic scenery and quirky wildlife (meet a Tasmanian Devil) make Tasmania a poster for natural beauty. Breathe the world's freshest air after the short hike over pink granite peaks to overlook Wineglass Bay, or end your first day on a Maria Island Walk listening to the waves and sipping a glass of Tassie wine during a candlelit dinner.
Kangaroo Island
Have a penchant for rugged adventure and a high thread count? Explore Kangaroo Island, Australia's Galapagos, from your base at Southern Ocean Lodge. Perched on a cliff overlooking this iconic coastline, this eco-sensitive resort offers endless ocean views from glass-fronted suites. Spend the days roaming the island's dramatic terrain spotting the koalas, wallabies and seals who call Kangaroo Island home.
