Great Barrier Reef in Australia - A Definitive Guide for Travellers

Situated in the Coral Sea, northeastern coast of Queensland, Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the most remarkable gifts for the country. One of the natural wonders in the world, the Great Barrier Reef was the first reef system to be an esteemed World Heritage Area. It is so huge in structure that it can be seen from space. Stretching over 2300 kilometres, the Great Barrier Reef is home to about a diverse 1500 large fish species, 400 different coral species, 4000 different mollusc species, and 240 different bird species. With intoxicating beauty and unique marine life, the Australian Great Barrier Reef has become an essential part of the cultural and tourism identity of the country. Here is everything you should know about the Great Barrier Reefs in Australia.

How to Reach

There are diverse ways to get to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. It can be reached via sea, air, or road from Cairns, Sydney, Melbourne, and other parts of Australia. If you are coming from overseas, you are likely to transit through Sydney, Brisbane, or Melbourne. From there, you can take a two-and-a-half-hour flight to reach Cairns or enjoy a road trip to the reef. Alternatively, you can opt for a helicopter tour or a boat ride to visit the reef. 

Best Time to Visit

The climate of this beautiful Australian spot borders from tropical to sub-tropical, so summers and winters are pleasant seasons to visit it. The breathtaking beauty of the largest coral reef in the world can be visited at any time of the year. However, the best time to plan a trip is from May to October, when the temperature is pleasant and rainfall is uncommon, thus ensuring clear waters and better diving conditions. Also, many events are hosted during these months, and all aquatic sports are at their peak. It is an ideal time to enjoy your trip to the Great Barrier Coral Reef to the fullest.

Things to do on the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is a must-visit tourist attraction in Australia. Famous as one of the rich ocean habitats, the great barrier makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy a great vacation. Home to more than 600 types of coral, 3,000 separate reefs, thousands of marine species, and around 900 continental islands and coral cays, the Great Barrier Reef has something for all nature and water lovers. Here, some of the best things to do are:

Snorkelling

One of the most popular activities at the Great Barrier, Snorkelling allows tourists to get closer to marine life and know more about the ecosystem. As you duck under the water's surface, you will discover a new mystic world. Just grab your goggles, a pair of flippers, and a breathing tube, and you are all set to explore the underwater magic. Those who do not want to be right in the water can opt for glass-bottom boats.

Scuba Diving

The Australian Great Barrier Reef is famous as one of the best diving destinations in the world. Scuba diving, one of the most popular water sports activities, allows you to completely submerge yourself in the water and stay there for longer. Even if you are not a good swimmer, you do not need to worry as the flippers and oxygen tank will help you glide through the water and enjoy a great diving experience.

Scenic Helicopter Flights

A helicopter flight is a great way to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder. It will help you to witness the island from a completely different perspective. A scenic helicopter flight will allow you to see the number of islands, coral reefs, and marine life on the Great Barrier. Flights from Whitsundays or Cairns are quite popular, allowing visitors to collect incredible pictures and unforgettable memories.

Whale Watching

Another major attraction of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia is whale watching. There is a significant breeding ground for around 30 species of cetaceans, almost 35% of all living cetaceans on the earth. These include Bottlenose Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, and more.

Skydiving

Adventure lovers or adrenaline junkies who wish to enjoy an outstanding birds-eye sight of the Great Barrier can opt for skydiving. Just two hours from Cairns, Mission Beach is a perfect place to enjoy skydiving over the reef. Skydiving at this beach is also a great opportunity to witness the rainforest and surrounding beaches as you fly in the sky, 4,570m (15,000ft) above.

Visiting Green Island

One of the best tourist attractions in the Great Barrier Reef, Green Island is a great way to experience and admire the natural beauty. There are many islands scattered around the Great Barrier, with Green Island being unique. Situated near the coast of Cairns, Green Island makes a perfect spot for those visiting the Great Coral Reef. More than 6,000 years old, Green Island is home to an abundance of native plants and animals, making it an ideal place to explore for nature lovers.

Reef Cruise or Sailing Trip

The cruises and sailing trips are a great way to explore and experience the most memorable trip at the Great Barrier Reef. Half or full-day cruises will provide you with well-equipped reef pontoons to get easy access to the water. The facilities include underwater observatories, changing rooms, and Freshwater showers. Also, a spacious activity platform provides guests with the opportunity to participate in a number of reef activities like semi-submersible viewing, diving, snorkelling, fish feeding presentations, and more.

Some Facts about the Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most spectacular, diverse, and awe-inspiring spots on the planet. Before you plan a trip to this wonderland, know these interesting facts about the reef.

• The Great Barrier Coral Reef is more than 500,000 years old.
• It is the largest reef system in the world.
• It is home to around 900 islands.
• The Great Barrier Coral Reef is bigger than Victoria and Tasmania, combined.
• It is the only place where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites meet - Daintree Rainforest, the oldest surviving rainforest in the world, and the Great Barrier Reef.
• Great Barrier Reef has tons of diving locations.
• 10% of the world’s total fish species can be found here.
• It is home to more than 600 types of hard and soft corals.
• The Australian government and many other private conservation organisations are working together to protect the reef.

The Great Barrier Reef is a beautiful and unique gift that Australia has for tourists. It is a place that promises visitors to get an escape away from the buzz of city life. A trip to Australia is incomplete without witnessing the incredible wildlife and stunning views of the Great Barrier. You can make your trip planning easier with Veena World’s intricately designed packages for Great Barrier Reef holidays for families. Get ready to experience the beauty of the most sacred natural treasure in the world.