Australia is one big island – but if you have escapist fantasies, then there are over 8000 hidden gems waiting for you just off shore. Here are the five most interesting and secluded secret islands within Australia’s boarders.
Bigge Island, Western Australia
Located off the Kimberley Coast, Bigge Island is home to some of the world’s oldest and most exquisite rock art – the Wandjina and Gwion Gwion art, the latter of which is believed to be more than 50,000 years old. The drawings can be found hidden in the rock cliff gorges, close to the edge of the island, and feature images of people, including white Europeans smoking pipes.
Haggerstone Island, Queensland
Boasting some of the best coral reefs in the world, Haggerstone Island is also home to many bird species and a vast marine life. The private tropical island is located in the Great Barrier Reef and available for rent to tourists. Visitors can explore shipwrecks, go beachcombing for WWII artefacts, and try snorkelling and fishing.
South Solitary Island, New South Wales
You’ll want to get your timing right with South Solitary Island, because it’s only open to the public for two weekends a year. Accessible only by helicopter, tourists are taken to visit the historic 1880 lighthouse, where they learn what it might have been like to live the solitary life of a lighthouse keeper.
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Satellite Island, Tasmania
This secluded paradise might be privately owned, but it is available for rent. Recently named by Harper’s Bazaar UK as the second-best private island on the planet, the luxuriously converted boathouse can sleep up to 18 people. Satellite Island boasts a once-in-a-lifetime natural experience, with sea cliffs, native wildlife (including a pair of rare white-breasted sea eagles) and the best shellfish in Australia. It is located a short five-minute boat ride from the popular tourist spot, Bruny Island.
Cocos Keeling Islands, Indian Ocean
If you love white sandy beaches, crystal clear water and being in total solitude, then theCocos Keeling Islands are for you. This group of coral islands is located 2750 kilometres northwest of Perth, as far away from Australia’s mainland as you can get.. The local population has a strong Malay–Muslim culture, with a long history dating back to the copra (dried coconut meat) production workers who arrived as early as 1826.
