About the Islands

Home to the Best Job in the World, few natural wonders command such attention as the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest 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 – The Islands of the Great Barrier Reef.

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.  They provide the backdrop allowing you to choose your own way of connect with the reef. You can dive into it, snorkel through it, sail it, fish it and feel it. You can swim with turtles or watch the whales play.  Whichever you choose, you are guaranteed an experience that will live with you forever.

Must Do’s

  • Indigenous Island Culture of the Torres Strait
    For the intrepid traveller looking to experience the Torres Strait and its distinctive island cultures.  Offering a cultural link between the Australian mainland and Pacific Islanders, providing all of the ingredients for an unforgettable adventure
  • Sleep on the Reef
    At Hardy Reef, after the day-trippers have departed, participate in after-dark viewing of the colourful reef fishes’ nocturnal activities and later sleep on top of the reef
  • Camping on National Park Islands
    For visitors wanting to experience the wonders of the reef and island for very little cost, camping is the way to go!
  • Bird nesting and turtle nesting season
    During the summer months witness the annual nesting seasons of the regions bird and turtle population
  • Visit Great Barrier Reef education centres and research stations
    Experience an island or a coral reef system where the tourism operators provide education and expert interpretation about the natural surrounds
  • Whitehaven Beach
    The pristine white silica sands of Whitehaven Beach stretch over 7km along Whitsunday Island, an icon of Australia’s natural beauty
  • Fulfil that once-in-a-lifetime dream
    For a special encounter with the reef, charter your own seaplane, helicopter or luxury yacht
  • Unsurpassed luxury and privacy
    Hire an island or stay at some of the most exclusive island resorts in the world
  • Diving, sailing and other water sports
    Offering some of the world’s greatest diving experiences and a variety of water vessels from catamarans, luxury yachts to retired America’s Cup maxi yachts and historic square riggers.  You can spend a day or a week experiencing the island-studded waters of the Coral Sea
  • Life above the Great Barrier Reef
    There are many different islands along the vast stretch of reef  to complement your experience: ecological, luxurious, natural or secluded.
  • In 2009 Ben Southall  was announced as the successful candidate for Tourism Queensland's 'Best Job in the World' campaign  and became the Caretaker  for the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef. Since then he has worked as a Queensland Tourism Ambassador travelling extensively throughout the state filming, photographing and blogging about his adventures. Read More

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