Australia is the world’s largest country surrounded by water, and with well over 10,000 beaches and 47,000km of coastline, it is certainly in no short supply of incredible coastal scenery.
And how best to enjoy Australia’s incredible beaches and coastal islands? Beach resorts! The following are some of the finest beach resorts in a country where three of the world’s oceans meet.
Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef
Located off the coast of Cairns, this island named by Captain James Cook for its healthy population of goannas offers an isolated tropical paradise in which you can explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
The resort offers 40 suites and villas in which no less than two dozen private secluded white sand beaches are to be found. In addition to enjoying your own private beach, explore lagoons, take in the island’s incredible bird life, or pick from one of many water sport activities or adventures the resort offers.
With the island’s surrounding waters (including the Great Barrier Reef) on your doorstep, guests have access to some of the world’s best diving. Explore Cod Hole where you’ll come face to face with massive 150kg potato cod. The island is also home to a National Park and coral reef research station.
Qualia, Hamilton Island
Hamilton Island is the most accessible of the Whitsunday Islands with short flights offered from Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns, and Brisbane. Qualia Great Barrier Reef Resort offers World Class accommodation and service along with privacy which is rare on the popular tourist island.
The resort’s 60 pavilions all have breathtaking Whitsunday water views in addition to surrounding bushland. Enjoy incredible Australian cuisine as you watch the sunset as a backdrop for your meal from the Long Pavilion.
You are given access your own private golf buggy so you can explore the island on your own or take advantage of one of their many signature experiences including spa treatments, round of golf with private helicopter drop off, or personal beach drop off excursions.
Seven Spirit Bay Wilderness Lodge, Cobourg Peninsula NT
Located less than an hour’s flight from Darwin in the Garig Gunak Barlu National Park, you’ll find the picturesque Seven Spirit Bat Wilderness Lodge. Your stay at the lodge will be inclusive of airport transfers, a luxurious 5-star villa, all meals and activities for the duration of your stay, and national park fees.
The lodge offers incredible fishing opportunities whether it be for queenfish and longtail tuna in the ocean waters or barramundi and mangrove jack in the coastal creeks. Enjoy history tours, explore the world’s first RAMSAR listed wetlands, learn about bush tucker via bushwalks, and much more.
The recent $3.5 million redevelopment to this luxurious outback resort is even more reason to book an experience.
Sal Salis, Cape Range National Park, Western Australia
This is glamping at its finest. Far from your everyday camping tent, you’ll enjoy a luxury tented camping experience where you’ll fall asleep in an ultra comfortable handmade jarrah wood bed and have access to an en suite bathroom.
Enjoy views of the famous Ningaloo Reef from your luxury safari wilderness tent nestled in the dunes of Cape Range National Park. Your days can be spent exploring the reef which is home to not only the incredible whale shark which you can book dives to see but also orcas, dolphins, humpback whales, and manta rays. You could also opt to stay on dry land to explore the National Park’s rich wildlife which includes a wide variety of birds, kangaroos, and goannas.
Say goodbye to mobile phone coverage and Wi-Fi as you achieve ultimate relaxation and adventure.
Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa, Broome WA
Broome is home to the 22km long stunning Cable Beach, Willie Creek Pearls, Roebuck Bay and its rich birdlife, as well as being the gateway to the Kimberley region.
The resort offers studios, bungalows, villas and suites all nestled in lush gardens. Enjoy an adults only lagoon style pool as well as a family pool and water park. Take a camel ride on Cable Beach or elevate yourself via a helicopter tour of the area. The resort’s grounds offer gorgeous gardens, a Buddha Sanctuary, and a large array of beautiful artwork.
Hayman Island, Whitsunday Islands
The most northerly of the gorgeous Whitsunday Islands, this private island oasis is thankfully open to the public. Its close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef makes it a perfect spot to explore the incredible underwater natural wonder of the world.
One of the few Whitsunday Islands to offer accommodation via its 160 rooms, suites, villas, and penthouses, it is an extremely exclusive experience. Enjoy its PADI scuba dive centre, sailing, cruises, and seaplane/helicopter tours which take in popular destinations like Heart Reef and Whitehaven Beach.
Due to the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Debbie, Hayman Island is currently unavailable to guests as they undergo refurbishment. It is currently expected to open late 2018 and will no doubt be better than ever.
Don’t forget to organize comprehensive travel insurance for your trip, and ensure that all activities and watersports you plan to undertake are covered by your policy.