Sights & Attractions in Great Barrier Reef

If you had the time, money, and patience, you could string together a long holiday that would take you to all the major island resorts. The map linking these coastal ports and offshore resorts would look like a lace-up boot 1,600 km (1,000 mi) long—but it would also take most of a month, even if you only spent one night in each place. From Lady Elliot Island as far north as Lizard Island, you'd only see half the reef, which continues north along the roadless wilderness of Cape York to the shores of Papua New Guinea.

Although most travelers are aware of the reef's expanse, they still tend to say they're visiting the reef, rather than naming a particular destination. But the island from which you choose to base your travels is actually very important. Each island—and each accommodation option—has its own distinctive charms.

It's worth noting that if you'd like to visit the reef briefly, as just one stop on a packed Australia itinerary, it's easiest and most economical to day-trip from the mainland. Some reef-island resorts are accessible by boat, but many others can be reached only by plane, and both airfare and lodging rates can be expensive. Day trips to the reef depart several times each day from major coastal cities like Cairns, Port Douglas, Townsville, and Airlie Beach. These tours let you dive, snorkel, sail, or beachcomb on the reef—some of the island resorts let you visit and use their facilities for the day—then return you to the mainland at day's end to continue your traveling.

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