Great Barrier Reef
The World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef is, quite simply, Australia's top tourism treasure. Stretching from the northern tip of Queensland south to the coastal town of Bundaberg, it's the planet's largest coral reef system and comprises one of its richest ecosystems. So vast is this complex of reefs, islands, coral cays, seagrass beds, and mangroves, it is the only living structure visible from space.
The Great Barrier Reef is a top Australian outdoor adventure, and there are numerous ways to enjoy it. Scuba diving and snorkeling along the shimmering coral reefs, sailing around idyllic tropical islands, fishing in designated zones, peering at the abundant marine life from a glass-bottomed boat, and soaring over this magnificent natural wonder on a scenic flight are among the most popular activities.
Thanks to its vast size, the Great Barrier Reef can be reached from a variety of locations along the Queensland coast. Cairns, a thriving tourist town in Far North Queensland, is a popular starting point for reef adventures. Port Douglas, about an hour's drive north of Cairns, is a smaller and more peaceful base for reef trips. In addition, it is the closest mainland port to the Great Barrier Reef.
This magnificent spectacle is a must-see addition to your Aussie itinerary. Climate change is one of the biggest threats to the Great Barrier Reef, causing large-scale coral die-off, especially along the reef's far northern stretches, so try to see this natural wonder as soon as you can. The Australian and Queensland Government introduced a long-term sustainability plan to help combat the effects of climate change and pollution, but more action is needed to conserve this important resource for future generations.
Rankings:
- #2 in Best Beaches in Australia
- #5 in Best Places to Visit in Australia and The Pacific
- #10 in Best Places to Visit in June
- #13 in Best Summer Vacations
- #23 in World's Best Places to Visit
Location: Queensland, Australia
