Where to buy an island home in Australia from as little as $575k

The island life can seem like an unattainable dream, but that is not the case when it comes to homes, small and big, that are currently up for sale across Australia.

Here we look around the country to find some of the best buys across every budget.

Millionaire neighbourhood, beer budget

An island home just a short stroll to the beach for under $600k seems like a bargain but this property at Island Beach on South Australia's King Island offers two separate cabins for that price range.

Described as "just two streets back from Millionaire's Row" the two holiday shacks are still in a position where "you can still hear the waves" according to listing agent Sophie Newlands of S&S Property and Projects.

"It's an awesome location with access to the beach and in a pocket with real stylish architecture places popping up," said Ms Newlands.

With properties on the beachfront strip, fetching up to $1.8 million, the two homes coming in at just over half a million is a good buy.

"Perhaps you're looking to manage both remotely and enjoy for yourself from time to time as the current owner has done," said Ms Newlands.

"We also envisage this may suit someone looking to enjoy semi-retirement and live onsite whilst renting out the other unit - handy extra income."

Nature and land

For those looking for a little more privacy and nature then this four-bedroom home also on Kangaroo Island may be the one.

Set on more than 30ha, this attractive four-bedroom home features spotted gum throughout the home, and there is a wood-fired heater for cooler months.

Surrounded by National Parks, the property can never be built out.

However, the property is also close to island destinations including numerous wineries, beaches and the soon to be opened Cliffs Golf Course.

An island off an island

Bruny Island sits off Australia's own island state, Tasmania, and this is where we find our next island gem.

This property which sits on a 4.3ha waterfront block features two homes, including an historic guest house and original fisherman's cottage.

Ventnor Guest House was built in 1871 and has played a number of roles, from post office to school, before taking on its latest role as luxury accommodation.

It features original hardwood flooring and Blatic pine linings boards giving the home a warm and inviting interior.

Meanwhile, the secondary building Taylors Bay Cottage sits closer to the water offering stunning views.

Invest and enjoy

If you are baulking at the $1.5 million to $1.65 million price tag on this home at Adventure Bay, also on Tassie's Bruny Island, then consider the returns it has currently seen.

This five-bedroom beach house with sensational views earnt $15,000 in just three weeks as a summer rental.

The home has an ideal location in what is invitingly known as Quiet Corner, yet also sits in the Bruny visitor hub of Adventure Bay.

It is built for year-round entertaining with a large deck featuring outdoor seating for 12 and a barbecue area with a pizza oven.

A deep-water mooring for a boat up to 50' is included in the price, as well as semi-rigid inflatable dinghy. Perfect for those looking to dive for nearby abalone and crayfish.

Close to the city

How about a newly renovated log cabin on a north-facing waterfront island block, but still within the confines of greater Sydney?

That is what is on offer at this three-bedroom home on Scotland Island on Sydney's northern beaches.

The island sits in the harbour-like Pittwater inlet, which has ferry services to the nearby suburb of Newport.

While you could do a commute to a CBD office from this home it seems a world away from city living with its views over tranquil Pittwater and Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park.