Top 10 Must-Visit Islands in the Great Barrier Reef – Australia
What is Great Barrier Reef ?
The Great Barrier Reef is a natural wonder that stretches for more than 2,300 kilometers along the coast of Queensland, Australia. It is the world’s largest coral reef system, composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. It is home to a rich diversity of life, including thousands of species of fish, coral, mammals, reptiles, birds, and invertebrates. The reef is also a World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction.
What is the Best Time to Visit Great Barrier Reef ?
The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef depends on several factors, such as the weather, the water temperature, the marine life, and the crowds. Generally speaking, the peak season is from June to October, when the weather is dry, sunny, and mild, and the water is clear and calm. This is also the best time to see whales, dolphins, and manta rays. However, this is also the most expensive and crowded time, so you may need to book in advance and pay higher rates.
The off-season is from November to May, when the weather is hot, humid, and rainy, and the water is warm and murky. This is also the time when cyclones and jellyfish may occur, making some activities unsafe or unavailable. However, this is also the best time to see coral spawning, turtles nesting, and baby animals. Moreover, this is also the cheapest and quietest time, so you may find some great deals and enjoy more space and privacy.
Ultimately, the best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef depends on what you want to see and do. how do you choose where to go? In this article, we will share our top 10 must-visit islands in the Great Barrier Reef. We will also tell you the best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef, depending on your preferences and budget. Here are our top 10 must-visit islands in the Great Barrier Reef, along with their best times to visit.
1. Hamilton Island
Hamilton Island is the largest and most developed island in the Whitsundays, a group of 74 islands in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. It offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to holiday homes, as well as plenty of activities and attractions, such as golf, sailing, hiking, and wildlife encounters. Hamilton Island is also a gateway to other islands and reefs in the Whitsundays, such as Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, and Heart Reef.
The best time to visit Hamilton Island is from June to October, when the weather is pleasant and dry, and the water is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. You can also enjoy various events and festivals, such as Hamilton Island Race Week, Hamilton Island Triathlon, and Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon.
2. Lizard Island
Lizard Island is a secluded and exclusive island located on the northern end of the Great Barrier Reef. It is home to a five-star resort that caters to discerning travelers who seek privacy, comfort, and elegance. Lizard Island is surrounded by pristine coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect destination for snorkeling and diving. You can also explore the island’s natural beauty by hiking, kayaking, or taking a scenic flight.
The best time to visit Lizard Island is from April to November, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the water is calm and clear. You can also avoid the stinger season, which runs from November to March, and can cause painful or even fatal jellyfish stings.
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3. Fitzroy Island
Fitzroy Island is a tropical island located 45 minutes by ferry from Cairns. It is a national park that covers 97% of the island, offering stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. You can enjoy various activities on Fitzroy Island, such as swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and glass-bottom boat tours. You can also visit the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, where you can learn about the conservation efforts and meet some of the rescued turtles.
The best time to visit Fitzroy Island is from May to October, when the weather is cool and dry, and the water is clear and refreshing. You can also witness some of the turtle nesting and hatching seasons, which run from November to March and January to April respectively.
4. Lady Elliot Island
Lady Elliot Island is a coral cay located on the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef. It is one of the best places to see the reef’s marine life, especially manta rays, turtles, dolphins, and whales. Lady Elliot Island has a single eco-friendly resort that offers comfortable accommodation and delicious meals. You can also join guided tours and educational programs to learn more about the reef’s ecology and history.
The best time to visit Lady Elliot Island is from May to August, when the water temperature is optimal for manta ray sightings. You can also see humpback whales migrating along the east coast of Australia from June to October.
5. Heron Island
Heron Island is another coral cay located on the southern part of the Great Barrier Reef. It is a haven for birdwatchers, as it hosts over 100 species of birds, including the namesake herons. Heron Island also boasts some of the best diving and snorkeling sites in the reef, with over 20 spots to choose from. You can stay at the Heron Island Resort, which offers various facilities and services, such as a spa, a pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
The best time to visit Heron Island is from September to March, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the water is calm and clear. You can also see the coral spawning event, which occurs around the full moon in November or December, and creates a spectacular underwater show.
6. Magnetic Island
Magnetic Island is a large island located 8 kilometers off the coast of Townsville. It is known for its laid-back vibe and friendly locals, as well as its stunning beaches and bays. Magnetic Island has over 20 kilometers of walking trails that lead you to scenic viewpoints and historical sites. You can also spot some of the island’s wildlife, such as koalas, wallabies, and rock wallabies.
The best time to visit Magnetic Island is from April to September, when the weather is mild and dry, and the water is warm and inviting. You can also enjoy some of the island’s events and festivals, such as the Magnetic Island Bay Dayz Festival, the Magnetic Island Adventurethon, and the Magnetic Island Full Moon Party.
7. Green Island
Green Island is a small coral cay located 27 kilometers from Cairns. It is one of the most popular day-trip destinations in the Great Barrier Reef, as it offers easy access and plenty of attractions. You can swim or snorkel in the clear waters around Green Island, or take a glass-bottom boat or semi submersible tour to see the coral gardens. You can also visit the Green Island Resort, which has a pool, a spa, a restaurant, and a bar.
The best time to visit Green Island is from June to October, when the weather is pleasant and dry, and the water is clear and calm. You can also avoid the stinger season, which runs from November to May, and can cause painful or even fatal jellyfish stings.
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8. Orpheus Island
Orpheus Island is a remote and luxurious island located on the western side of the Great Barrier Reef. It is accessible only by helicopter or private boat, and accommodates up to 28 guests at a time. Orpheus Island offers an unparalleled level of service, privacy, and exclusivity, as well as stunning natural beauty. You can indulge in gourmet dining, relaxing spa treatments, and personalized activities, such as fishing, diving, and sailing.
The best time to visit Orpheus Island is from April to October, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the water is calm and clear. You can also enjoy some of the island’s events and experiences, such as Orpheus Long Lunch, Orpheus Wine Series, and Orpheus Reef Discovery.
9. Fraser Island
Fraser Island is not technically part of the Great Barrier Reef, but it is too amazing to miss. It is the largest sand island in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fraser Island has diverse landscapes and ecosystems, such as rainforests, lakes, dunes, and beaches. You can explore Fraser Island by 4WD, or join guided tours and cruises. You can also see some of the island’s wildlife, such as dingoes, whales, and dolphins.
The best time to visit Fraser Island is from July to November, when the weather is cool and dry, and the water is clear and refreshing. You can also see humpback whales breaching along the coast from August to October.
10. Hinchinbrook Island
Hinchinbrook Island is the largest island national park in Australia, and one of the most untouched and pristine islands in the Great Barrier Reef. It is a paradise for hikers, as it has the famous Thorsborne Trail, a 32-kilometer trek that takes you through spectacular scenery and diverse habitats. You can also enjoy kayaking, fishing, and camping on Hinchinbrook Island, or stay at the Hinchinbrook Island Resort, which offers basic accommodation and facilities.
The best time to visit Hinchinbrook Island is from May to September, when the weather is mild and dry, and the water is clear and calm. You can also avoid the stinger season, which runs from October to April, and can cause painful or even fatal jellyfish stings.
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