June 12, 2025
Australian Islands you haven’t heard of – But now must visit
Mackerel Islands, WA
Best for: Fishing, off-grid escapes, reef snorkelling
Hidden off the coast of Onslow in Western Australia, the Mackerel Islands are the kind of place that feels like a secret passed between friends. Picture rustic beachfront cabins, epic sunsets, and zero crowds. It’s your chance to go completely off-grid – with world-class fishing, snorkelling, and sea turtle sightings as your backdrop.
Stay on Thevenard Island or Direction Island and explore untouched reefs and rugged coastal landscapes. It’s Robinson Crusoe vibes, but with a hot shower and cold beer waiting at the end of the day.
Tiwi Islands, NT
Best for: Indigenous art, cultural immersion, island-meets-outback landscapes
Just a short flight north of Darwin, the Tiwi Islands feel a world away. Often called the “Islands of Smiles,” Bathurst and Melville Islands are rich in Indigenous culture, art, and tradition.
Join a locally guided tour to experience traditional Tiwi ceremonies, visit thriving art centres, and hear stories passed down through generations. The landscapes are wild and tropical, a unique blend of red earth and turquoise water. If you’re seeking a meaningful and immersive travel experience, this is it.
Groote Eylandt, NT
Best for: Cultural connection, remote wilderness
Groote Eylandt is one of Australia’s largest offshore islands – and yet most people have never heard of it. Located in the Gulf of Carpentaria, this island is owned by the Anindilyakwa people and offers a deeply respectful and fascinating cultural exchange.
Fishing is legendary here, but there’s also world-class diving, ancient rock art, and even an eco-lodge experience if you prefer a more relaxed and well-rounded experience. It’s remote, raw, and unforgettable.
Torres Strait Island Hopping (Beyond Thursday & Horn Islands)
Best for: Island culture, sea adventures, diverse communities
Most visitors only ever make it to Thursday Island. But did you know there are over 270 islands scattered across the Torres Strait? Island hopping here opens up a window into one of the most unique and culturally rich regions in the world.
Fly between lesser-known islands like Yam, Boigu, Saibai, or Mer and meet communities with proud traditions, languages, and seafaring heritage. Expect warm hospitality, vibrant festivals, and the chance to witness a part of Australia that rarely makes the guidebooks.
Ready to explore?
At Crooked Compass by Air, we believe the journey should be just as epic as the destination. Whether you’re chasing untouched beaches, rich Indigenous culture, or an escape from the ordinary, these islands are waiting to be discovered – from above.
Want to make it happen? We help design custom air touring experiences to Australia’s wildest corners – with comfort, style, and soul.
Let’s plan your island-hopping adventure.
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