The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for over 2,300 kilometres (1,400 mi) over an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometres (133,000 sq mi). The reef is located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland, Australia. The Great Barrier Reef can be seen from outer space and is the world’s biggest single structure made by living organisms. This reef structure is composed of and built by billions of tiny organisms, known as coral polyps. It supports a wide diversity of life and was selected as a World Heritage Site in 1981. CNN labelled it one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
The Great Barrier Reef is a popular tourist destination, especially for scuba diving and snorkeling. It is also home to a wide variety of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 411 species of hard coral, and 4,000 species of mollusks. The reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the natural wonders of the world.
Here are the 10 best places to visit in the Great Barrier Reef in June 2024:
Green Island
This small island is located within the Great Barrier Reef, just a short boat ride from Cairns. Green Island is a popular spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming. The island is also home to a rainforest and a number of birds and animals.
Cairns: This city is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and offers a wide variety of accommodation, restaurants, and activities. From Cairns, you can take a boat trip to the reef, go diving or snorkeling, or take a hot air balloon ride over the rainforest.
Port Douglas
This seaside town is located north of Cairns and is a great base for exploring the northern Great Barrier Reef. Port Douglas is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse marine life.
Whitsunday Islands
These islands are located in the southern Great Barrier Reef and are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The Whitsunday Islands are a popular spot for sailing, sunbathing, and swimming.
Fraser Island
The world’s largest sand island is located off the coast of Queensland and is home to a variety of landscapes, including rainforests, lakes, and beaches. Fraser Island is a popular spot for camping, 4WDing, and fishing.
Lady Elliot Island
This small island is located at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef and is a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Lady Elliot Island is home to turtles, sharks, and manta rays.
The Gove Islands
These remote islands are located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland, and are home to some of the most pristine reef systems in the world. The Gove Islands are a popular spot for fishing, diving, and snorkeling.
Coral Sea Reef Marine Park
This marine park is located off the coast of Queensland and is home to a wide variety of marine life, including coral reefs, fish, and turtles. Coral Sea Reef Marine Park is a popular spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and boating.
Whitsunday Islands Marine Park
This marine park is located off the coast of Queensland and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whitsunday Islands Marine Park is a popular spot for sailing, sunbathing, and swimming.
Turtle Islands Marine Park
This marine park is located off the coast of Queensland and is home to the largest population of green sea turtles in the world. Turtle Islands Marine Park is a popular spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and turtle watching.