Islands of the Great Barrier Reef

From the exclusivity and luxury of five-star resorts to a ‘back-to-nature’ style of designer-inspired safari tents, the diverse array of islands will compliment your very own Great Barrier Reef experience. The different islands along the vast stretch of reef are there to complement your ideal Great Barrier Reef experience: ecological, luxurious, natural, secluded. From these islands you can choose how you connect with the Reef. Dive into it, snorkel through it, sail on it, or fish it. Swim with turtles or watch whales play. Whichever island you choose, you’ll have an experience that will live with you forever.

Lizard Island
Lizard Island is a ruggedly beautiful island on the northern Great Barrier Reef. Surrounded by coral, ribbon and lagoon reefs, Lizard boasts 24 beaches. One of Australia’s northernmost island resorts, design works in harmony with the island’s spectacular natural beauty. This premium property caters to just 80 guests and can be accessed via daily flights from Cairns.

Thala Beach Lodge
Located an hours drive north of Cairns, this family operated eco-luxury resort sits spectacularly atop a headland with breathtaking views of untouched coastline. An island on the mainland! Bungalows are built on stilts up in the treetops and birds and possums are regular visitors on the balconies. A short hike through the rainforest takes you down to the resort’s secluded beach and a coconut plantation.

Heron Island
Located right on the Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island is a place of stunning natural beauty with sugar-white sands, crystal clear waters and acres of brilliant coral with colorful marine life. At this World Heritage-listed marine national park, all flora and fauna is protected, so the island is a nature lover’s paradise. Helicopters and launches depart daily for Heron Island from Gladstone.

Hayman Island
Australia’s most celebrated private island, Hayman is the most northerly of the Whitsunday Islands in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Seaplanes, launches and helicopters transfer guests from Hamilton Island, and they are invited into a world of privacy, luxury, relaxation, fine wines and dining and breathtaking scenery. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, this idyllic retreat has won a host of prestigious local and international awards.

Daydream Island
Daydream Island Resort and Spa is located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. A short helicopter ride or cruise from Hamilton Island, it offers affordable luxury for couples and families alike. Its natural attributes — secluded beaches, azure waters and stunning rainforest — are complemented by a diverse range of fun-filled activities, magical dining experiences and contemporary facilities.

Hamilton Island
In the heart of the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday Islands, Hamilton Island offers an experience like no other: brilliant beaches, stunning coral reefs, unique flora and fauna, fine food and wines, and a multitude of activities. A wide range of accommodation options vary from luxurious and intimate beachfront settings to sweeping views of the Coral Sea.

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