Exmouth snorkelling 1
aus dive great barrier reef tropical north queensland cairns
Copy of Mount Archer Capricorn Coast
Copy of Great Keppel Island Capricorn Coast 1
Exmouth snorkelling 1
aus dive great barrier reef tropical north queensland cairns
Copy of Mount Archer Capricorn Coast
Copy of Great Keppel Island Capricorn Coast 1

Discover the top five things to do in Australia's Great Barrier Reef

An untouched gem of Australia, the Great Barrier Reef offers a captivating mix of natural beauty and unique experiences. From picturesque islands to impressive dives and culinary delights – everyone can find their own personal adventure here. Join us on a journey of discovery as we look at the top five things that cannot be missed when visiting the Great Barrier Reef.

1. Island hopping by boat

Discover the picturesque coral islands and sandbars that surround the Great Barrier Reef. From large islands attracting visitors year-round to secluded islands offering paradisaic refuges, each island has its own charm. However, they all have in common that they offer the perfect conditions for boating, sunbathing, swimming, and exploring the colourful underwater world the Great Barrier Reef is known for.

Did you know? There are over 900 islands and islets within the Great Barrier Reef. Some of these islands are idyllic and uninhabited, while others have resorts and accommodations, but each island has its own unique charm and natural beauty, from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to abundant wildlife.

Lizard Island
Island hopping offers rich and diverse adventures for everyone

2. Diving and snorkelling

The Great Barrier Reef is a dream destination for divers and snorkellers alike. Here, you can dive underwater and immerse yourself in a world full of colourful corals and exotic marine life straight from the beach. Discover the underwater wonders on a dive or snorkelling trip and experience the breathtaking diversity of the reef.

Did you know? The Great Barrier Reef is estimated to be between 6,000 to 8,000 years old, but some parts of it may be even older. It has undergone numerous changes over millennia and continues to evolve today. It serves as a natural laboratory for scientists studying the effects of climate change on coral reefs.

Snorkelling in Australia: A real dream come true!
© Tourism and Events Queensland

3. Marine animal encounters

Come into contact with a fascinating marine world as you swim with turtles, tropical fish, and the majestic manta rays. For those looking to take their experience to a whole new level, you can help rescue sea turtle eggs and watch them hatch - now that is an experience you will never forget!

Did you know? This natural wonder is home to an incredibly diverse range of marine life. It houses thousands of species of fish, coral, molluscs, and other marine creatures, making it a biodiversity hotspot. Some of these species can be found nowhere else on Earth!

There's nothing like diving with friendly sea turtles
© Southern Great Barrier Reef

4. Epic road trips

Experience unique adventures off the beaten path - the TravelEssence way. Coast to coast, a road trip through the Great Barrier Reef region will drive you past jaw-dropping cliffs and breathtaking landscapes, take you to hidden treasures and offer unforgettable memories. Drive along the coast, discover charming small towns, meet the knowledgeable and friendly locals, and take it all in slowly. Plus, for those looking to merge sea and land, in the tropical North of Queensland (north of Cairns), you can combine wonderful trips to one of the oldest rainforests in the world - UNESCO World-Heritage Daintree Rainforest - with your trip to the Reef.

Did you know? In 1981, UNESCO designated the Great Barrier Reef as a World Heritage Site, recognizing its exceptional natural beauty and ecological significance. It is a protected area that draws millions of tourists every year.

Stop for unforgettable views!
© Southern Great Barrier Reef

5. The reef from above

Consider taking a helicopter or seaplane tour for a breathtaking aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef. These scenic flights offer a unique perspective of the reef's enormous size and beauty.

Did you know? The intricate patterns of coral formations can create mesmerizing optical illusions. When viewed from an aerial perspective, the reef's vibrant colours and intricate structures can give the illusion of changing shapes and patterns, similar to a kaleidoscope.

View the breathtaking coral patterns from above
© Yanguang / Unsplash

Learn more

One of the world's greatest natural wonders

The Great Barrier Reef

Be mesmerised by 600 types of coral, over 2900 individual reefs, and 900 tropical islands. A wonderland that… read more

Discover sample itineraries to inspire your tailor-made journey read more