Where are Australia’s Most Eco-friendly Island Holiday Destinations?

Discover the best of Australia’s sustainable island travel destinations, and why you should consider them for your next adventure!

There is something special about holidaying on an island, particularly a small one. It’s a microcosm of flora, fauna, geography, and culture all distinct to the area – and fun to discover for yourself.

Here are a few suggestions of islands where you can tread lightly and immerse yourself in nature. Sustainability is a way of life at these fabulous destinations, and many have wildlife and experiences not available anywhere else on Earth.

Consider these beautiful places for your next eco-friendly holiday –

Lady Elliot Island

If diving or snorkelling in water teeming with marine life is your happy place, Lady Elliot Island may well feel like heaven. Located on the Southern Great Barrier Reef, this island is a shining example of sustainable practices. The resort runs solely on renewable energy, removes invasive species, and helps revegetate the island. You can also participate in Project Manta, a citizen science conservation programme to learn more about the mysterious life of manta rays.

Fraser Island/K’gari

The biggest sand island in the world awaits! Beaches, forests and lagoons here are in pristine condition and all tour operators and accommodation owners want to keep it that way. While there is a dedicated Eco Retreat boasting many forms of energy-saving and efficiency, most places to stay on this gorgeous island teeming with wildlife are eco-friendly. Just don’t feed the dingoes!

Lord Howe Island

A twitcher’s dream destination with over 130 permanent and migratory bird species. Seabirds nest here in their hundreds of thousands. 75 percent of the island’s vegetation is undisturbed, and a marine park protects the diverse underwater life. The number of visitors is limited to 400 at any one time to prevent overcrowding.

Lizard Island

It comes with a hefty price tag but the lodge on Lizard Island is the only luxury resort located directly on the Barrier Reef.  Private beaches, abundant wildlife and personalised service make this an experience of a lifetime. This eco-friendly resort is tucked away in a National Park – a great place to disappear from the pressure of modern life while still enjoying utter comfort.

Kangaroo Island

The jewel in the crown for South Australia, Kangaroo Island is famous for it’s diverse eco-conscious food production scene. Feast on honey, sustainably farmed oysters, fresh fish and a smorgasbord of organic produce. Ethical wildlife viewing is also a priority – you can observe koalas, kangaroos, sea lions and more in their natural habitat.

Bruny Island

Accessed from the beautiful Huon area south of Hobart Tasmania, this rugged island attracts eco-minded foodies, hikers and nature-lovers. Tour the dramatic coastline and see seals and other marine life with Bruny Island Cruises, enjoy a range of organic food and keep an eye out for rare birds.  Most accommodation is built for sustainability and powered by solar.

This list is just a sample. Next time you are contemplating an island holiday, do some research to source eco-friendly tours and places to stay. It’s a win/win for you and the environment.