The Islands of South Queensland

Couran Cove Island Resort is located on beautiful South Stradbroke Island, a leisurely 40 minute inland waterway ferry ride from the Gold Coast. There is a range of sporting, leisure and nature activities to enjoy including cycling, tennis and every conceivable watersport. Children are not left out either with a kids club and children's wading pool. After all this activity, relax in The Day Spa and choose from a range of pampering options. Discover the pristine surf beach, lush natural rainforest and native wildlife. Enjoy the fine and casual dining for the whole family with a focus on fresh local produce. 4 stars.

From $192 USD per person

Stradbroke Island Beach Hotel & Spa Resort is just one hour from Brisbane city in the region of Moreton Bay. Access is easy with regular ferry services between the mainland township of Cleveland and the island community of Dunwich. At nearby Point Lookout enjoy spectacular views of magnificent gorges and pristine beaches. Whale-watching becomes a delightful pastime in the winter/spring months, while a variety of fish provides year-round recreation for anglers. The resort is located atop a natural bush headland, just a few short steps from white beaches and rolling surf. It's the ideal place to unwind and more! 4 stars.

From $204 USD per room - minimum stay is 2 nights

This island is the location of Tangalooma Island Resort nestled among natural bushland. Each evening a pod of bottlenose dolphins eagerly swim up to the beach, adjacent to the well lit jetty, where they are rewarded with fresh fish hand fed by the Dolphin Care staff. Under strict supervision resort guests can assist with the feeding. Between June and October join one of the whale watching cruises to view the majestic humpback whales or board the Tangalooma Explorer vessel for the Dugong, Dolphin and Turtle Eco Cruise. Dine in one of the restaurants, enjoy the nightly entertainment, or stroll along the endless stretches of white sandy beach.

From $281 USD per person

Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world, a World Heritage listed icon famous for its ancient rainforests, mighty sand dunes, freshwater lakes, streams and an abundance of birds and wildlife. On the ocean side the sands of 75 Mile Beach stretch beyond the horizon. Relax in the comfort of Kingfisher Bay Resort, wake up to birdsong and enjoy the views from your private deck. Experience the tastes of Australia in a choice of restaurants, sip a cocktail, swim in one of the four pools, play tennis, take to the water in a canoe or catamaran or stroll along deserted beaches as the sun sets. 4 star accommodation at Kingfisher Bay Resort.

From $267 USD per person

Heron Island is a true coral cay located right on the Great Barrier Reef, framed by white sands, crystal clear waters and coral teeming with colorful marine life. Enjoy the relaxed island lifestyle and be amazed by the array of birds and animals. Heron Island has some of Australia's best dive spots - more than 30 of which half are only 15 minutes from the beach. Enjoy snorkelling, tennis, movies under the stars, indulge in a treatment in the Aqua Soul Spa or just laze around the pool. Voyages Heron Island, with its choice of accommodation from casual cottages to beachfront suites, is a great family holiday destination. Access is by launch or helicopter from the town of Gladstone. 4 stars.

From $185 USD per person

This tiny coral cay is part of the Great Barrier Reef and is home to rare turtle and bird breeding grounds. Voyages Wilson Island has a maximum of just 12 guests who are able to enjoy exceptional snorkelling, bird watching, island and reef walks. All activities on the island are free. Accommodation is in designer-inspired tents each with its own designated private shower and dressing area. Relax, socialise and enjoy the dinner party or gourmet picnic style meals - freshness, simplicity and variety guide the menu. The island is closed in February for the bird nesting season. Access is via the town of Gladstone - 4 stars.

From $480 USD per room. Min 2 nights includes all meals, luxury tent accommodation, drinks, transfers

Lady Elliot Island is a true coral cay situated at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef and located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Tour the reef in a glass bottom boat, snorkel, learn to scuba dive or take a guided reef walk. With exceptionally clear water year round, you will encounter a large variety of fish - you might spot turtles, dolphins and giant manta rays. At Lady Elliot Island you can step straight off the beach and discover an underwater world of brilliantly coloured species of marine life. There is a choice of accommodation including Garden Units, Reef Units and Island Suites. Access via the town of Gladstone - 3 star accommodation.

From $530 USD per person