Islands of the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is made up of more than 2500 individual reefs and 600 islands offering a choice of accommodation and activities for all tastes ranging from remote and secluded luxury lodges and elegantly sophisticated resorts, through to family oriented island getaways.

As one of the world's seven natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef is top of the 'must do' list. Under it, on it, in it, above it - there are so many ways to experience this magical wonder and the crystal clear waters surrounding it.

Spend the day exploring the pure white silica sands of the world's best beaches, or take a sailing boat on a day cruise or a bareboat overnight. Paddle a sea kayak gracefully through the blue, follow bushwalking trails overlooking the Coral Sea or simply relax with a cocktail by the pool.

Must Do!

• Great Barrier Reef day trips/extended tours
• Diving
• Snorkelling
• Island hopping
• Hand feed wild dolphins
• Whale watching
• Bushwalking
• Guided reef walks
• Bareboating & cruising

Resort Overview

Island Escape
The Great Barrier Reef Islands of Lizard, Dunk, Hayman, Brampton, Peppers Palm Bay, Hamilton or Haggerstone Island and the secluded and exclusive Orpheus Island are ideal for Honeymooners or couples just wanting an exquisite escape.

Queensland Naturally
Heron, Wilson, Lizard or Lady Elliot Islands are superb choices for diving or fishing. The nature on Lady Elliot Island is an ecological wonderland with turtle hatching, bird rookeries and whale watching, (all seasonal).

Indulge
If you are seeking absolute luxury, Hayman, Green Island, Orpheus, Bedarra, Peppers Palm Bay and Lizard are what you are looking for. If you are looking for a fun filled family holiday, Dunk, Hamilton, Hayman or Daydream will make the perfect choice.

Active
Hamilton Island, Daydream Island Resort & Spa, or Long Island Resort, are ideal choices for something in between. If you would like do a reef and island cruise, the options are wide and varied on Queensland's Great Barrier Reef.

Other Queensland Islands
Queensland's island resorts closer to Brisbane are also world famous and easily accessible by vehicle and ferry. The superb Kingfisher Bay Resort on World Heritage Fraser Island.

Getting around
Seaplane/Helicopter: Light aircraft, helicopters and seaplanes offer island transfers and scenic flights
Boat: Hire a charter yacht or catch a ferry service to island resorts and the Great Barrier Reef
Small Luxury Cruising: Sit back and relax on a luxury vessel and visit both the iconic islands like Whitehaven as well as some of the island secrets only the local crew are able to share.

Events: There are plenty of events held either on the Islands or in the regions surrounding them. Here is just a sample:

• Queensland Cancer Fund Relay for Life
• Dent to Dunk Race & Cruising Rallies
• The Great Barrier Feast Hamilton Island
• Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show
• Laguna Whitsunday Triathlon
• The Powerade Hamilton Island Outrigger Cup
• Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival

Here is a list of the most popular and accessible islands of the Great Barrier Reef:

Other Queensland Islands

• Fraser Island
• Moreton Island
• Lady Elliot