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Guide to the Great Barrier Reef

Welcome
Getting to the Great Barrier Reef
Best time to visit

Take a dip in The Great Barrier Reef and see why most of the world has added this Australian destination to their bucket list.

Spanning over 2,300km (1,430mi) down Australia’s eastern coastline, The Great Barrier Reef offers an abundance of coastal experiences unlike anywhere else in the world. Swim amongst the stunning coral formations, giant clams, rare species of whales, and six of the world's seven marine turtle species. Not to mention the over 1,600 species of fish who call this aquatic wonderland home. Whether your style is scuba diving to the depths of the ocean or soaking up the sunshine on the soft sands on an island, see why The Great Barrier Reef is the perfect destination for your next getaway.

Access points to the Great Barrier Reef are scattered between the northernmost town of Cape York and the southernmost coastal town of Bundaberg.

The five most popular airports leading to the reef are:

Cairns Airport (CNS) is located 5.5km (3.5mi) from Cairns; international and domestic arrivals.
Townsville Airport (TSV) is located 5km (3mi) from Townsville; domestic arrivals.
Proserpine Airport (PPP) is located 39km (24mi) from Airlie Beach; domestic arrivals.
Bundaberg Regional Airport (BDB) is located 6km (3.7mi) from Bundaberg; domestic arrivals.
Hamilton Island Airport (HTI) lands directly on Hamilton Island in The Whitsundays; domestic arrivals.

Each airport offers pre-booked transfers, taxis, and car or buggy hire options.

Given the size of the reef, you'll find differences in climate depending on where you go. Generally speaking, however, May to October is a great time to visit the reef as the water is still warm enough for a swim and the underwater visibility is at its best.

High season: Winter (June to August)
Low season: Summer (December to February)
Don’t miss: Turtle hatching (January - March)

Chris Hemsworth, Global Ambassador © 2017 Getty Images

"The Great Barrier Reef is one of those places you must visit, whether you love the water or just want to see one of the great wonders of the world."

Chris Hemsworth, actor and Global Ambassador for Tourism Australia

Top things to do on the Great Barrier Reef

Lady Elliot Island, Great Barrier Reef, QLD © Tourism Australia

Protect this natural wonder

Visitors to the Great Barrier Reef play an important role in helping protect this iconic landmark. There are many holiday ideas and tour options with minimal impact and a focus on conservation, preservation and restoration. See how your visit can help.

Museum of underwater art, Townsville, QLD © Jason DeCaires Taylor

Connect culture with conservation

Head underwater to explore the Southern Hemisphere’s only submerged art gallery. With a mission to promote conservation and restoration, it’s a chance to explore the beauty of the reef while helping to preserve this very special ecosystem.

ReefSleep, Great Barrier Reef, Whitsundays, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland

Experience something truly special

Just visiting the reef is a bucket list experience for most people. But beyond snorkelling and diving, there are some really unique ways to see this natural wonder. Which one will be your favourite?

Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel, Cairns, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland

Find your perfect tour

Whether you’re an avid scuba diver or more comfortable on dry land, you can find a Great Barrier Reef tour that is suited to you. Master Reef Guides will share their in-depth knowledge of the reef’s history, inhabitants and its future.

Elysian Retreat, Whitsunday Islands, QLD © Elysian Retreat/Nathan White Images

Escape to a secret island

With over 600 continental islands dotting the Great Barrier Reef, it’s easy to find a quiet place to relax away from the crowds. Whether you prefer a back-to-basics eco-retreat or an adults-only luxurious escape, these islands deliver.

Yongala Shipwreck, Great Barrier Reef, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland/Scuba Diver Life

Dive into an underwater world

From diving shipwrecks just off shore to multi-day liveaboard tours to the outer reef, there are some incredible scuba diving experiences to be had on the Great Barrier Reef. Discover some of the best spots for a dive in Queensland.

Helicopter flight over reef, Great Barrier Reef, QLD © qualia

Take a memorable day trip

Helicopter rides, private island picnics and marine life encounters are just a few of the incredible ways to make lasting memories when you visit the reef. Discover these and more unique day trip ideas to get the most out of your time here.

Daydream Island Resort, Whitsundays, QLD © Daydream Island Resort

Stay in style

Whether you’re on a romantic getaway or family holiday, you’ll find accommodation to suit your needs. Book a private island, boutique hotel or stunning beachfront resort to ensure your stay is as spectacular as the surroundings.

Snorkelling with a manta ray, Lady Elliot Island, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland

Say g’day to the Great Eight

Turtles, whales, mantas and even sharks - how many of Australia’s Great Eight marine animals can you spot during your visit to the Great Barrier Reef? Find the best places to meet our underwater mates!