Living the island life is a dream many of us share, especially as we’re now smack in the middle of summer. Speaking of islands, did you know that Australia has around 8,222 of them within its maritime borders? As you’re probably aware, getting an RV onto most of these island is mission impossible. However, not to worry, the several islands that are in fact, RV friendly, make up for it by being simply stunning. So get set to take your home on wheels for an unforgettable summer getaway with this curated selection of Aussie islands that you can visit with your RV.
North Stradbroke Island, Queensland: Ideal for RV Adventurers
Situated a 50-minute ferry ride away from the mainland, North Stradbroke Island in Queensland beckons with its beaches, freshwater swimming holes and a plethora of outdoor activities. Whether you’re into fishing, cycling, surfing, hiking, or simply basking in the sun, this island has something for everyone. Don’t miss the iconic Gorge Walk, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.
For RV enthusiasts, North Stradbroke Island offers several spots to park your caravan with easy vehicle access via SeaLink’s vehicle ferry. Be prepared to budget around $300 - $450 to transfer your RV across, though prices will vary based on vehicle size and time of travel.
For more information, visit www.sealink.com.au/north-stradbroke-island/about-north-stradbroke-island/
North Stradbroke Island. Credit TEQ
Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Kangaroo Island, located about 13 kilometres off the coast of South Australia, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. With a sprawling 509 kilometres of coastline, native bushland, and abundant wildlife, it’s also a paradise for wildlife lovers and foodies alike. The island is renowned for producing high-quality honey, seafood, olives, wines, and spirits. Make sure to explore Flinders Chase National Park and visit iconic landmarks like the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Spotting the long-nosed fur seals here is not to be missed either.
Getting your RV to Kangaroo Island is easy peasy via the SeaLink ferry. Expect to budget around $280 - $500 depending on whether you have a motorhome or are towing a lengthy caravan. There are a number of caravan parks to choose from, but you should definitely book in advance.
For more information, visit www.sealink.com.au/kangaroo-island/
Kangaroo Island, Vivonne Bay. Credit Jess Caldwell
Magnetic Island, Queensland
Though not typically known as an RV destination, Magnetic Island, located approximately 10 kilometres off the coast of Townsville, offers a mesmerising spot to park your home on wheels. With 23 beautiful beaches, opportunities to feed rock wallabies, WWII forts and koalas galore, there’s no shortage of things to do here. Don’t forget your goggles and flippers for the clever snorkel trail at Geoffrey Bay
While there’s only one caravan park on Magnetic Island, the Bungalow Bay Koala Village, it’s more suited to small motorhomes due to the size of the few sites. However, there are now a number of HipCamp sites on the island, one of which I have personally stayed in towing a Jayco pop-top.
Magnetic Island Ferries provides the vehicle barge service, costing around $500 return, depending on the length of your setup. It feels pricey, but if you stay at a HipCamp, cooking many of your own meals and compare this to the cost of a hotel and having to eat out for every meal, it suddenly doesn’t seem so bad.
Visit www.magneticislandferries.com.au for more information.
Magnetic Island. Credit Melissa Findley
Bruny Island, Tasmania
A quick 20-minute ferry ride from Kettering, south of Hobart, transports you to the captivating Bruny Island. Known for its amazing beaches, local produce, and breathtaking scenery, Bruny Island is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for fur seals, fairy penguins, albatross, wedge-tailed eagles, and white wallabies and more importantly, don't miss the chance to savour the island's delectable cheese and berries.
Accommodation options on Bruny Island include the Captain Cook Holiday Park and a private campground spread across 50 acres with its own surf breaks. Access is via the SeaLink ferry, with a return cost of approximately $120, subject to seasonal variations.
Of course, to reach Bruny Island, you first need to get to Tasmania in your RV. Access to Tasmania with your RV is via the Spirit of Tasmania, which takes around 9 - 11 hours to cross the Bass Strait.
Visit www.spiritoftasmania.com.au for more information.
Hiking on Magnetic Island
Bribie Island, Queensland
Just an hour and 20 minutes from Brisbane’s CBD, Bribie Island in the Moreton Bay region beckons with its national parks, both surf and protected beaches, great fishing, and culinary delights. Whether you prefer beachcombing, kayaking, cycling, 4WD adventures, or birdwatching, Bribie Island has it all. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls the Pumicestone Passage home, including dugongs, dolphins, turtles and various bird species.
Bribie Island boasts several caravan parks and is easily accessible via a bridge at Sandstone Point, making it the most affordable and convenient RV island destination on this list.
Rock Wallabies on Magnetic Island. Credit Jessica Palmer
Plan Your Perfect RV Island Getaway
Exploring these RV-doable Australian islands promises unforgettable adventures and breathtaking landscapes. From the sandy shores of North Stradbroke Island to the wildlife-rich Kangaroo Island, the serene Magnetic Island, the picturesque Bruny Island, the rugged beauty of Tasmania, and the diverse experiences on Bribie Island, there's an island getaway awaiting every RV enthusiast. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your island-hopping journey today.
Tasman Highway, East Tasmania. Credit Pete Harmsen
