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Snorkeling The Great Barrier Reef: A Guide To The Queensland Islands
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world. It is the world’s largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometers along the northeastern coastline of Australia. Snorkeling is a great way to explore the reef’s vibrant colors and fascinating marine life. Here is a guide to the best snorkeling spots around the Queensland islands.
Lady Elliot Island
Lady Elliot Island is an idyllic spot for snorkeling. It is the southernmost island of the Great Barrier Reef, located off the coast of Bundaberg. The island is home to an abundance of sea life, including manta rays, sea turtles, and a variety of fish. The waters are crystal clear, allowing for excellent visibility for snorkelers. The island also has a wide range of accommodation options, making it a great place to stay for a few days.
Heron Island
Heron Island is a coral cay located off the coast of Gladstone. It is known for its diverse reef system, which is teeming with tropical fish and vibrant coral. The waters around the island are shallow and protected, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. There is a range of accommodation options on the island, as well as excellent restaurants and bars.
Fitzroy Island
Fitzroy Island is located off the coast of Cairns in the Northern Great Barrier Reef. The island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs and lush rainforest. The waters around the island are shallow and calm, making it the perfect spot for snorkeling. The island also has a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts and budget-friendly options.
Green Island
Green Island is a small coral cay located just off the coast of Cairns. The waters around the island are shallow and calm, making it a great spot for snorkeling. The island is surrounded by vibrant coral and an abundance of sea life. There is also a wide range of accommodation options on the island, as well as restaurants and bars.
Fantome Island
Fantome Island is located off the coast of Townsville in the Northern Great Barrier Reef. The waters around the island are shallow and calm, making it a great spot for snorkeling. The island is surrounded by vibrant coral and an abundance of sea life. There are no accommodation options on the island, but it is a great spot for an overnight camping trip.
Whitsunday Islands
The Whitsunday Islands are located off the coast of Airlie Beach in the Central Great Barrier Reef. The waters around the islands are crystal clear and teeming with tropical fish and vibrant coral. There are a wide range of accommodation options on the islands, as well as restaurants and bars. The islands are also home to some of the best beaches in the world.
Frankland Islands
The Frankland Islands are located off the coast of Cairns in the Northern Great Barrier Reef. The islands are surrounded by vibrant coral and an abundance of sea life. The waters around the islands are shallow and calm, making them ideal spots for snorkeling. There are no accommodation options on the islands, but they are a great spot for an overnight camping trip.
Haggerstone Island
Haggerstone Island is a remote island located off the coast of Cooktown in the Northern Great Barrier Reef. The island is surrounded by vibrant coral and an abundance of sea life. The waters around the island are crystal clear, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. There are no accommodation options on the island, but it is a great spot for an overnight camping trip.
Lizard Island
Lizard Island is a remote island located off the coast of Cooktown in the Northern Great Barrier Reef. The island is surrounded by vibrant coral and an abundance of sea life. The waters around the island are crystal clear, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. The island also has a wide range of accommodation options, as well as excellent restaurants.
Magnetic Island
Magnetic Island is a small island located off the coast of Townsville in the Central Great Barrier Reef. The waters around the island are shallow and calm, making it a great spot for snorkeling. The island is surrounded by vibrant coral and an abundance of sea life. There is also a wide range of accommodation options on the island, as well as restaurants and bars.
Dunk Island
Dunk Island is a small island located off the coast of Cairns in the Northern Great Barrier Reef. The waters around the island are shallow and calm, making it a great spot for snorkeling. The island is surrounded by vibrant coral and an abundance of sea life. There is also a wide range of accommodation options on the island, as well as excellent restaurants.
Orpheus Island
Orpheus Island is an idyllic spot for snorkeling. It is located off the coast of Townsville in the Central Great Barrier Reef. The waters around the island are crystal clear, allowing for excellent visibility for snorkelers. The island is home to an abundance of sea life, including manta rays, sea turtles, and a variety of fish. The island also has a wide range of accommodation options, making it a great place to stay for a few days.
Lawn Hill Gorge
Lawn Hill Gorge is located in the Northern Great Barrier Reef, close to the town of Burketown. The gorge is home to an abundance of wildlife, including freshwater turtles, platypus, and a variety of birds. The waters around the gorge are crystal clear, making it a great spot for snorkeling. There are no accommodation options in the gorge, but it is a great spot for an overnight camping trip.
Summary
The Great Barrier Reef is home to some of the most stunning snorkeling spots in the world. From Lady Elliot Island and Heron Island to the Whitsunday Islands and Orpheus Island, there are plenty of options for snorkelers of all levels. There is a wide range of accommodation options on the islands, as well as restaurants and bars. Whether you’re looking for an idyllic spot for snorkeling or an overnight camping trip, the Great Barrier Reef has something for everyone.
