Islands of the Great Barrier Reef

Few natural wonders command such attention as the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s greatest coral reef system.

Those who see it never forget it. Here, after all, is a spectacle so vast that it can be seen from the moon.

What makes the reef so great is not just what’s beneath the surface but also what’s above it - the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef, which stretch along the Queensland coastline from Lady Elliot Island in the south to Poruma Island at the extreme northern tip.

On an island, you can literally immerse yourself in one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Time spent on a Great Barrier Reef Island is time out in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Some people merely see the Great Barrier Reef, other get to truly experience it.

From the exclusivity and unbridled luxury of five-star resorts to the back-to-nature simplicity of tented accommodation in sublime natural settings, the reef’s islands offer a retreat from the demands of everyday life. Whichever you choose, you are guaranteed an experience that will live with you forever.

There are many different islands along the vast stretch of reef to complement your ideal Great Barrier Reef experience: ecological, luxurious, natural, secluded. From these islands you can choose how you connect with the reef. You can dive into it, snorkel through it, sail it, fish it and feel it.

Enjoy sailing on a catamaran, luxury yacht or historic square-rigger. Try bareboat (sail-yourself) chartering and explore secluded coral reefs and immaculate beaches. Or join a day-sailing trip and enjoy snorkeling amongst colorful corals. Queensland also offers a mythic range of excellent dive locations, many of which are still unexplored.

Islands

Stay on one of the many islands of the Great Barrier Reef.

Take your pick from activity-packed family resorts and romantic getaways to luxurious beach villas and wilderness-style camping.

Here is a selection of just some of the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef:

Hayman (www.hayman.com.au)

The multi award-winning Hayman is widely recognised as one of the top resort destinations in the world. This private luxury island is the most northerly island of the Whitsundays, and offers magnificent views, beautiful accommodation and an array of activities.

Hamilton Island (www.hamiltonisland.com.au)

The largest inhabited island in the Whitsundays, it is the only island with an airport catering for direct commercial and charter flights. It offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from 3-star bungalows to luxurious villas with private courtyards. Hamilton is great for both families and couples.

Heron Island (www.heronisland.com)

A true coral cay, this World Heritage-listed marine national park has white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and acres of coral with colorful marine life. Heron Island is famous for its extraordinary variety of aquatic life, bird life, migrating whales and nestling turtles.

Dunk Island (www.dunk-island.com)

Known as Australia’s most spectacular rainforest island, it offers a wide variety of activities including a resort golf course, award-winning spa, rainforest walks, horse riding and more.

Bedarra Island (www.bedarraisland.com)

This is Australia’s most exclusive resort, with only 16 secluded villas hidden in the rainforest, just minutes from the beach. It is ideal for couples, offering absolute privacy and relaxation, fine food and wine, and luxurious accommodation.