Must-visit Queensland islands you’ve never heard of

It's easy to see why Orpheus Island was named after the Greek god renowned for his ability to charm all living things, even stones. This North Queensland gem has charm in spades.

Sharing turquoise real estate with Pelorus and Hinchinbrook Islands, Orpheus Island is 110 kilometres north of Townsville. The verdant 12-kilometre stretch is covered with eucalypt forests, a smattering of palm trees and fringed with teeming coral reefs. As you’d expect, you can spend your days bushwalking, snorkelling, diving and fishing – the choice is yours. 

This Queensland island is the place for lovers of exclusive, sustainable and tranquil holidays - and an incredible eco-friendly way to explore the Great Barrier Reef. Only accessible by helicopter or private charter, you can stay in one of  three National Park campgrounds, as well as one very luxe, very sustainable resort – Orpheus Island Lodge.

A stay here feels good inside and out. 100% renewable energy powered since 2019, the Lodge's sustainability strategy ensure minimal impact on its surrounding environment - from zero single-use plastics to what's dished up on the menu. Here's a few more reasons why you need to visit.

Curtis Island

In search of an off-road camping adventure? Just a short ferry or private boat ride from Gladstone, Curtis Island National Park is a hidden gem of the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

Red dirt and sand, interspersed with rocky outcrops and a cover of wind-sheared shrubbery meets sparkling ocean. It’s the perfect backdrop for exploring the island’s rugged nature, salt flats, wetlands and secret fishing spots by day.

With the exception of camping in Southend near the ferry, there are three campsites. Turtle Street, Joey Lees and Yellow Patch are all only accessible by hiking or 4WD. If you plan on camping, be prepared; you’ll need to bring everything with you, and pack it out too. 

Hinchinbrook Island

With cloud-shrouded mountains standing sentinel and untouched landscapes, Hinchinbrook Island feels like a set location from Jurassic Park. This Queensland island is a hiker's Holy Grail, where rich biodiversity and prehistoric landscapes meet in spectacular fashion.

It’s hard to believe Hinchinbrook sits just eight kilometres off the coast of Townsville. But as Australia’s largest national park island, it has remained largely uninhabited since the first European sightings in 1770.

Serious – and self-sufficient – hikers visit Hinchinbrook Island for Thorsborne Trail, a rugged but rewarding 32-km hike through the island’s varied wilderness. You’ll have the trail’s mixture of mangrove-fringed creeks, lush rainforest and sandy beaches mostly to yourself, thanks to a 40-person limit. Meaning you can catch a glimpse of the more than 19 mammal, 32 reptile and 150 bird species, minus the crowds.

Hinchinbrook Island is known for its world-class sea kayaking and biodiverse waters, too. Take a break from discovering secret beaches and hidden waterfalls to paddle among the dugongs, dolphins and marine life.

Makepeace Island

Among all the things Noosa is known for, its islands are not high on the list. In fact, the Richard Branson joint-owned Makepeace Island has flown under the radar for years, even with Sunshine Coast locals.

Favoured by honeymooners and large groups, the heart-shaped luxury island is nestled secretly on the Noosa Northshore. The all-inclusive resort - that you can rent entirely to yourself - features a range of environmentally-friendly design features. Organic produce, chickens and beehives plus a wastewater purification system are just the start. Local and ethical sourcing plus recycling and a farm-to-table approach add to the roster of sustainability measures.

The island’s three luxury villas and two houses (Island House and The Boathouse) channel breezy Balinese living, accommodating up to 20 people. Entertainment’s a breeze thanks to a massive lagoon-style pool, 15-seater spa, a theatre, a tennis court and pavilion. Plus a private riverboat for hitting the mainland to explore Noosa and surrounds.

Pumpkin Island

A mere six hectares, and just 20 minutes from Yeppoon, Pumpkin Island has remained relatively untouched - and offers the perfect chance to get away from it all. The island is home to five eco-friendly, self-catering cottages and two bungalows, all powered by wind and sun. Rent a cottage, or bring a group and rent the whole island.

Despite being easily walkable from end to end, there’s no shortage of island life activities. Snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding, fishing, bushwalking and wildlife spotting will keep you occupied. A glass-bottomed kayak is also a great way to watch the turtles glide by. Or, make use of the odd hammock or two strung languorously between palms.

Tempted? Here's how to spend three days on Pumpkin Island.

Pelorus Island

If your ideal Queensland island escape is spending as much time below the surface as possible, Pelorus Island is for you. Part of the Palm Island group off the coast north of Townsville, it's particularly loved by divers. 

The coral reef here is a kaleidoscope of colours, soaked in a blue so intense that it makes the sky jealous. Dart in among the impressive coral formations as you snorkel or dive your way through the reef, accessible right from the beach.

Plan to call Pelorus home for a night or two? Preparation is key. With no fresh water or toilets, this is camping like you mean it. Take everything you need, and then make sure to leave nothing behind when you’ve had your fun. If you’re not into DIY, check out this incredible dive-and-camp safari.

Gloucester Island

It's no secret The Whitsundays is paradise on earth. But there are still a few special spots where you can achieve a secluded island getaway. One of the best? Gloucester Island.

More no-frills than its famous neighbours, like Hayman, Hamilton and Daydream Islands, Gloucester is a back to nature experience. Grab your permit and take your pick from two campgrounds with varying facilities – Bona and East Side Bays – then get exploring. Boating, fishing, picnicking and bird-watching will keep you busy by day. When the sun sets, cast your eyes up to the night sky for stargazing out of this world. Keep an eye out for the island’s population of endangered Proserpine rock-wallabies.