Dive deeper into this beautiful part of Australia and experience the stunning Great Barrier Reef for yourself.
The Great Barrier Reef is undeniably one of the top tourist attractions in Australia. High on many tourists must-see lists, there is a never-ending list of things to see and do here, it’s easy to see why over two million people make the trek here each year.
Spanning across over 2000 kilometres of coastline the incredible reef system is visible from space! This stunning underwater world is the largest living thing on Earth, and you definitely would love to experience its amazing sea life for yourself.
However, it’s not just the smaller marine animals that live along this coast. Not just snorkelling in the great barrier reef, keep an eye out for the seven types of sea turtles here and the thirty types of whales and dolphins. While marine life thrives below the surface, birds control the sky. Over 215 species of birds visit the Great Barrier Reef in the day to hunt or nest at reef islands.
Whitsunday Islands
The Whitsundays is an archipelago of 74 tropical islands off the coast of central Queensland. With thousands of visitors and travellers coming from near and far every year, the Whitsundays hold an abundance of natural wonders and stunning holiday spots.
Lush island marine scapes, wondrous underwater ecosystems and perfect tropical temperatures are all found in this slice of paradise.
What is it famous for?
1. Overnight Sailing: What better way to get from the mainland out to the Whitsunday Islands than with an overnight sailing tour? The Whitsunday market for luxury, overnight and multi-day sailing experiences is extensive and comprehensive with something for everyone!
2. Whitehaven Beach: One of the most famous spots in the Whitsundays, Whitehaven Beach is sure to leave you speechless! Home to 7km of bright white silica sands, this beach located on Whitsunday Island really is a marvel of nature.
3. Hill Inlet: A short bush walk from Whitehaven lies Hill Inlet, a small and flourishing nook of Whitsunday Island. Follow the path to Hill Inlet Lookout to see what all the fuss is about! The ever-famous view isn’t one to be missed.
The mosaic of turquoise waters and luminescent white sand creates a swirling masterpiece that is never once the same.
Lady Musgrave Island
One of the Great Barrier Reef’s biggest swimming pools, Lady Musgrave Island’s untouched beauty extends from land to sea. Located only 52km from Bundaberg, this tiny coral cay measures just 19.45 hectares in size and is one of the best places to visit in Queensland.
But what Lady Musgrave Island lacks in land size, she makes up for off-shore with a vast surrounding reef that’s brimming with marine life and colourful coral.
What is it famous for?
1. Lady Musgrave is the southernmost island in the Capricorn Cay and the region’s only coral island that’s surrounded by a vast turquoise lagoon set in the coral reef ecosystem. Set on 3000 acres of living reef, the protected lagoon stretches eight kilometres around the island.
2. Camping is the only way to stay on Lady Musgrave Island. A rustic yet enriching experience, you’ll sleep under a sparkling sky with only the sounds of waves in the distance for company.
What makes camping on Lady Musgrave Island unique is it’s so remote and untouched. But that does mean you need to come prepared.
3. Lady Musgrave Island is a huge nesting ground for green turtles, and to a smaller degree, loggerhead turtles. Visitors to the island between November to February can expect to see mama turtles laying their eggs.
Whitehaven Beach
One of Queensland’s best beaches and the dream-like paradise of Whitehaven beach is a spectacular 7km stretch of impossibly white sand located on Whitsunday Island.
The astonishingly white sand of Whitehaven Beach is the most extensive stretch of beach in the Whitsunday region. The sand is 98.9% pure silica, whereas typical beaches have sand with around 95% silica! Whitehaven Beach should be on the bucket lists of travellers worldwide with thousands making the journey in 2022.
What is it famous for?
1. Whitehaven Beach is unique. The blue waters of this area are like nothing you’ve seen outside of the movies, but it’s the brilliant white sand that is special. Silica sand is amongst the purest in the world. It is cool to the touch as you relax on the sand under the warm Whitsunday sky.
2. Whitehaven Beach is accessible by boat from Airlie Beach, Hamilton Island and Shute Harbour. Hop on board a 2-day and 2-night tour with Wings and enjoy a sailing adventure. The Wings crew will take you to Whitehaven Beach as part of your sailing and snorkelling adventure. Swim out and under the water to explore the incredible world of the Great Barrier Reef.
3. Whitehaven Beach is part of the Whitsunday Islands National Park and has won multiple awards including the cleanest beach. It’s a family-friendly holiday sight and has been awarded the most Eco-Friendly Beach in the world in 2010.
Fitzroy Island
Fitzroy Island is one of the best tropical islands in North Queensland. Located just a short ferry ride from Cairns, there’s no reason why anyone should miss this tropical gem when visiting Cairns and the Tropical North.
Whether you’re looking to spend an action-packed day trip from Cairns, or if you’d like to spend several days on Fitzroy Island exploring, you certainly won’t be disappointed.
What is it famous for?
1. Giant Ocean Trampoline: This is hands down one of Fitzroy Island’s most sought-after attractions. Whether you’re a kid or just young at heart, this fun trampoline stands right in the ocean, 25 meters off of Welcome Bay. There are even all-day passes that allow you to bounce as much as you want!
2. Secret Garden Track: This light 1km stroll is perfect for beginners and those who are just looking to sight-see. It takes around an hour and forty-five minutes, at a leisurely pace. It allows you to be immersed in the stunning view and gives you a chance to point out the island’s diverse animal life.
Lizard Island
Lizard Island is Australia’s northernmost island beach resort and the ultimate spot for luxurious seclusion, facilities and diving. Located 240km north of Cairns on The Great Barrier Reef.
The island is a protected National Park, with just one exclusive resort, 40 rooms and suites, and 24 pristine sandy beaches.
What is it famous for?
1. Lizard’s astonishing natural beauty enveloped by fringing reefs and a turquoise lagoon is matched by the resort’s 40 luxury villas located mere steps from the beach.
2. Executive chef Mark Jensen delivers an impressive menu of modern Australian cuisine with a distinct South-East Asian twist at the resort’s Salt Water Restaurant. The menu revolves around simple dishes sourced as locally as possible, with a focus on fresh seafood.
The Great Barrier Reef is home to countless marine life, in fact, around 10% of the world’s fish population can be found along this coastline alone! Amongst the more than 1500 species of fish found here are many fan favourites, including the unmistakable clownfish and blue tang, also known as Nemo and Dory. So do not forget to jump right in!
For more inspiration on the best Great Barrier Reef tourism islands for you, check out this family-friendly island guide so you don’t forget to visit the best one next time!