Bedarra Island

This tiny, 247-acre island 5 km (3 mi) off the coast of Mission Beach has natural springs, dense rain-forest tracts, and eight unspoiled beaches. Bedarra Island is a tranquil getaway, popular with affluent executives and entertainment notables who want complete escape. It's one of a select few Great Barrier Reef resorts with an open bar, and the liquor—especially champagne—flows freely. Bedarra accommodates a maximum of 32 people; you stay in one of 16 freestanding villas, hidden amid thick vegetation but steps from the golden sand.