Great Barrier Reef

The 2,300-kilometre (1,430-mile) Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world. You can swim, snorkel, dive and sail this living masterpiece.

Home to diverse marine life of the most vivid colours, the Great Barrier Reef offers the opportunity for great adventure, both in luxury and on a budget. Whether you explore the stunning Whitsunday Islands, trek the ancient Daintree Rainforest or relax on luxurious tropical islands such as Hayman and Lizard, a day on the reef is all about the unforgettable nature that surrounds you.

Adopt Australia's easygoing attitude when you island-hop, or stay in one of the many coastal getaways such as Cairns, Airlie Beach, Hervey Bay, Mission Beach and Port Douglas.

Must Try

• Sail through the 74 idyllic islands of the Whitsundays
• Stay in island resorts among the clear, warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea
• View and experience incredible marine life, from over and under the water


Getting there

International flights fly directly into Cairns Airport, while domestic flights fly onto Hamilton Island Airport or into Proserpine Airport (on the Whitsunday Coast) or Townsville Airport on the mainland. The gateway town for many island resorts in the Whitsundays is Airlie Beach, a 25-minute shuttle bus from Proserpine Airport.