Cocktails with umbrella straws, swaying palm trees and the ocean breeze in your hair – everyone loves an island holiday. We’ve picked three of the best tropical holidays to quickly get you on your way and into island time as soon as possible.
Bali
Bali isn’t just for beach bums and yoga masters. Bali is becoming one of the most sought after luxury travel destinations, with beautiful Bali villas popping up all over the island.
Just a short motorbike ride from Kuta and about a 25 minute drive from Denpasar Airport lays Seminyak – home to classy boutiques, fine dining and cool cocktail bars. Check into your private villa at Peppers Seminyak and check out all of the facilities that await. With a gourmet kitchen, open-air dining and living spaces and a private pool, there’s no need to even leave your stunning Seminyak villa. But if you choose to, enjoy a pamper session at the day spa, contemporary cuisine at The Laneway Restaurant and Bar or hire a car and explore all that the island has to offer.
Top things to do in Bali: Chase waves in Uluwatu, watch the sun set at Tanah Lot, chill poolside at Potato Head Bali, channel your inner yogi in Ubud or soak up the excitement at Waterbom Bali.
Book your Bali holiday here
Hawaii is the epitome of island holidays, with six major islands to choose from. The island of Oahu is home to Waikiki Beach and is the perfect place to enjoy a tropical holiday. Head to Honolulu and to the centrally located Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra. With a skybridge connecting you to the Ala Moana Center, this is a shopping addict’s paradise! After a busy day of shopping and sightseeing, retreat to your comfortable Hawaii accommodation with balcony (tip: book the ocean view room!) and watch the sun set over the Pacific.
Top things to do in Hawaii: Hike the Diamond Head State Monument to the edge of the 300,000 year old crater for spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona for a bit of history or hire a convertible and head to the North Shore for surf and seaside snacks.
Book your Hawaii holiday here
Named by Captain Cook, Magnetic Island, or “Maggie”, as it’s known to locals, is a mountainous island with 23 beautiful bays and beaches located just 8 kilometres offshore from Townsville in North Queensland. Hop on the Sealink Ferry and as you pull into the bay, you’ll quickly realise why this place is regarded as an island paradise.
Ideally located in Nelly Bay, Peppers Blue on Blue Resort offers a true island escape overlooking the sparkling Coral Sea. Rejuvenate at the Endota Spa, relax by the lagoon or resort pool or enjoy a romantic meal at Boardwalk Restaurant & Bar. Spacious apartments boast kitchens or kitchenettes, lounge rooms and balconies and some even come with private plunge pools.
Top things to do on Magnetic Island: Choose from 25 kilometres of walking trails to discover striking views and the World War II Forts ruins, spot one of over 800 koalas who inhibit the island or take a day trip to dive, snorkel or sail the Great Barrier Reef.
Book your Magnetic Island accommodation here
Courtesy of Townsville Enterprise