Our final trip for 2025—while Bondi was being turned upside down—took us to one of my absolute favourites of the entire year: Pelorus Island.
A private island hugging the Great Barrier Reef and Queensland coastline, accessible by helicopter (very James Bond–style) or a fancy amphibious boat that literally drives itself straight up onto the beach.
Pelorus is mostly national park, edging a deep-water channel—meaning you can play with water toys all day, no tide stress. There’s just one giant five-bedroom villa. That’s it. You, the ocean, and a private chef.
No, there’s no surf. Some say the Great Barrier Reef can break, but I’ve never seen it. For us, it was crystal-flat, electric-blue water—perfect for snorkelling and fishing adventures.
Thankfully, we experienced Pelorus in full technicolour blue before Cyclone Koji gate-crashed, bringing an all-day tropical deluge.
This place is remote.
And it’s officially gone on our must-return list—which is the highest endorsement I can give any location.
Hope you’re enjoying summer. Bondi’s looking packed again.
:: uge
At $20,000 per night on Pelorus Island, you must be making bank!!!!!