The Australian continent is famous for its sights and unique oceanic landscapes. A huge number of truly unique natural artifacts, as if in the far corner of the room, are modestly located in the southern hemisphere of the globe.
Record number of reefs
Another place, to which, like pilgrims, thousands of tourists rush, is the Great Barrier Reef. It rightfully occupies the top line of the largest coral reef systems in terms of its scope and area. Many places on the planet can boast of such an abundance of coral rocks in the middle of the ocean surface, as well as such a unique fauna.
According to official figures, the place has a record number of reefs - 2,900, which, together with 900 islands, extend over a huge 344,000 square kilometers. This natural wonder is located off the northern coast of Australia in the waters of the Coral Sea. So that you can imagine the full scale of this natural phenomenon, we note that the Great Reef can be seen even from space! And this splendor was created by insignificant living organisms, to which no one will pay attention when they meet. Read how to apply for a visa to Australia yourself in our life hack.
Each ledge contains a huge number of special organisms - coral polyps. Due to its uniqueness, the reef complements the list of wonders of the world. The attraction did not remain without the attention of the world community. In 1981, the reef became another representative of the world heritage.
Despite its scale, the Great Reef is considered a rather fragile natural phenomenon. This is because polyps are very sensitive to climate change. Even the slightest increase in the temperature of the water in the ocean leads to their death inexorably. In order to preserve the landmark, the Australian government is doing everything it can. For example, there are a number of documents that lay down the rules for tourists and divers who visit the reef. In particular, it is forbidden to touch polyps with your hands, and sleeping places can only be broken in clearly designated places.
Divers' paradise
If you are an avid diver and simply cannot imagine your life without scuba gear and the underwater world, you should definitely visit here at least once in your life. Although, speaking honestly, to explore even part of the local underwater reefs and get acquainted with the rarest representatives of the underwater world, you will need more than one month!
The reefs to the south are especially popular among representatives of this extreme type of recreation. It is this huge chain of rocky formations that breaks up into dozens of small groups, which are evenly located along the coast of the continent at a distance of up to 300 km.
It is such an attractive place for explorers of oceanic flora and fauna that divers seem to run the risk of coming face to face with their colleagues at times. They scurry between the reefs in search of something new, like octopuses exploring their possessions. At the very least, everyone finds new impressions and vivid memories among the reefs.
Seclusion of Heron Island
As mentioned earlier, the reef consists of several hundred islands, each of which can be called unique. Let's dwell on the most famous of them. The island of Heron is considered a place for paradise diving. It is located in the southern part of the Great Reef and has resort status. This remote location is popular for its secluded atmosphere.
If you want to be alone with the ocean and nature, the island of Heron will undoubtedly be the most interesting in this regard. There is everything that can be seen in colorful photographs on the Internet: white as sugar sand, crystal clear emerald-colored water that allows you to see the smallest details of the seabed, and incomparable coral sculptures.
Of course, the remoteness of the island creates some difficulties for tourists. After all, you will have to get there either by helicopter, which is extremely expensive, or by using the services of a boat that can be hired in Gladstone. But these minor inconveniences are more than compensated for on the very first day, when you, holding your breath, will delightfully absorb with your eyes all the beauty of the local landscapes.
Conveniences will be provided by a local hotel, where you can not only spend the night, but also appreciate all the delights of the local cuisine. It offers a first-class restaurant, swimming pool, as well as all kinds of services to teach the art of diving and even the popular tennis on the continent. If you wish, you can always sign up for an excursion to the local "adventurous" places. If you want to appreciate the scale of the Great Reef yourself, you can use the services of a tourist helicopter, which will provide an excellent bird's eye view. Well, gourmets will certainly love the opportunity to take part in wine and cheese tasting from local producers.
Dunk Island
If you decide to go on a visit to the Great Barrier Reef with your family, then Dunk Island will be the best option for a measured but bright holiday. It is one of the most beautiful tropical islands in the entire world. For tourists, there is always a huge range of ornithological and underwater excursions, the opportunity to learn horseback riding, as well as one-hour walks in the shade of tropical trees and bushes, which are simply teeming with butterflies of unprecedented beauty and exotic birds.
On the island, every fishing enthusiast will get an incomparable experience from participating in the competition. You will have to remember all your skills and mobilize all the energy of the body and the dexterity of the fisherman in order to cope with the assertive representatives of the aquatic world, who just strive to get off your hook!
The advantages of the island do not end there. After all, it is considered one of the best places among the reef islands in terms of "price-quality". For a very reasonable fee, each member of your family will be able to fully relax, and the days spent on Dunk Island will become some of the most vivid memories.
Lizard Island - an exclusive getaway for special guests
Those who can afford not to save money on vacation will undoubtedly appreciate all the advantages of another island, which is part of the Great Barrier Reef. This is Lizard Island. Just think about the next figure! The coast of the island has 24 beaches at once! And this is not just sand and sun loungers, these are exclusive beaches with increased comfort. The resort is located in the northern part of the reef and is considered one of the most famous and expensive in the world. As you know, you have to pay extra for special conditions. But all guests can afford it.
For tourists, there is a special cuisine here, in the menu of which you can find the most exotic, expensive and rare dishes. Fans of fishing will be able to appreciate the best conditions for the realization of their hobby, and divers will not get out of the deep sea for days, still not "satiated" with the underwater beauties.
Divers who have plowed the most exotic places of the seas and oceans will say with confidence that one of the best places on the planet for diving is a local attraction - Code Hole. Cruises, tennis, ornithological and zoological excursions, trips to the research center, water skiing and boat trips along the reef - all this is just a small list of the exclusive comfort that all happy owners of a tourist trip to Lizard Island will be able to appreciate.
Hyman Island
If you think that the interest of tourists in the Barrier Reef is limited to these three islands, you are fundamentally mistaken.There are still plenty of places that are attractive in all respects. Hyman Island is one of the most prestigious resorts. It is one of those islands that is owned by one of the richest people on the planet. That is why first-class conditions for tourists have been created here. Great beaches, diving and 10 restaurants at once! Moreover, the island is very popular among honeymooners who enjoy their honeymoon here.
Hamilton Island
Hamilton is considered to be one of the few islands that have survived in almost pristine form. Here you can get in touch with wild nature, while spending your vacation in the highest comfort.
Bedarra Island
Well, for wealthy tourists who prefer a more secluded vacation, the island of Bedarra has extended its arms. It is also one of the most expensive resorts, but its visitors live in separate villas, each of which offers excellent ocean views.
As you can see, Australia is ready to share with the whole world its unique sights and rare natural artifacts. One has only to want, and exotic birds and divine beauty, like painted, butterflies of the tropical islands of the Great Barrier Reef will forever settle in your heart.
I also recommend reading an article about another interesting place in Australia - Port Campbell National Park.
