The world’s largest coral reef, the Great Barrier Reef, is a diver’s delight.  Over 3,000 reefs are accessed from sandy beaches off the northeastern coast of Australia.

Small islands are paradise oases that dot the Coral Sea, thriving with a vibrant underwater world. Orange and white Clown Fish hide in swaying sea anemones while blue Tang Fish are hard to miss with their bright yellow tails.

Visible from space, this natural wonder is home to an abundant array of fish, mollusks, and corals. Large green turtles glide along as snorkelers look down into this astounding natural aquarium.

Lie on the deck of a catamaran, soaking up the warm sunshine, before snorkeling among the fish, some shy, others curious. The kaleidoscope of color is blinding. Corals pop in bright purples and pinks, schools of fish swim by in what looks like a choreographed water dance, their stripes and dots shining like Mother Nature’s most precious gems in the rays of sunlight that filter down from above.

Wade into the water off the beach on Heron Island to snorkel. Large turtles make their way onto the shores to hatch. A marvel of nature and incredible to witness. Hop from one island to the next. There are close to 600 to be explored. Feel the romance of the Heart Reef during a fly over.

Sail through the 74 Whitsunday Islands and frolic on secluded beaches. The glowing sunsets are spectacular as the sun dips below the tranquil waters inviting the moon to come out and play among the glittering stars.  Take a night dive to discover nocturnal animals that are not seen during the day.

The Daintree Rainforest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with lush jungles spilling onto the coast and the blue depths reveal stunning reefs.

Spot adorable koalas on Magnetic Island. Green hills soar into the skies and magnificent blue butterflies delicately perch on flowers.

Crocodiles glide along rivers, dugongs float out at sea, and dolphins leap out of the gentle waves, beckoning swimmers to take another dip at the Hinchinbrook Island National Park.

The Australian government established the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park in 1975 in an effort to protect and carefully monitor the reef to ensure it thrives for many generations to come.