This large island has a resident population of 2,500 people and is considered by some to be an outer suburb of Townsville, as the island is only 8km offshore from this city. Only 20km of the coastline around the island is inhabited and much of the remainder is a National Park. The park offers visitors some great bushwalking tracks, where if you are lucky, you can spot some of the resident Koala Bears. The island is a major tourist destination in the holiday season, but you can still find some more secluded spots if you are willing to look.

Snorkelling at Alma Bay
Photographer: Peter Lik
Courtesy Tourism Queensland