Great Barrier Reef City Info

Things to do

Great Barrier Reef ,Queensland, Australia » Entertainment » Attractions

The Great Barrier Reef itself is the region’s top attraction, but there is also so much to see in the surrounding areas. Depending on the area or city you choose to stay in for island hopping, there are many great local area attractions to explore, such as Daintree Rainforest.

Daintree Rainforest

Daintree Rainforest is located on the northeast coast of Queensland. It is the only place in the world where the rainforest meets the reef. It is one of the best biologically diverse rainforests in the world. A tropical rainforest with white sandy beaches and fringing reefs just offshore is a rare combination.

Cairns Esplanade

Cairns Esplanade is a beautiful place to enjoy the sunrise as well as the sunset. Walk along the seafront and soak up the vibe of the town. It has become a vibrant social hub and recreation centre catering to both locals and tourists. There are lush tropical parks, playgrounds, a swimming lagoon, and a foreshore promenade. Other attractions are a bouldering park, beach volleyball courts, bike paths, a skate park, exercise equipment, water-themed playgrounds, and more.

National Parks

A large part of the Great Barrier Reef is protected through National Parks. These National Parks protect the island’s vegetation, mangroves, reefs, marine and land life. Tourism is also promoted via these parks that offer all the comforts and facilities needed during your stay. When visiting these national parks, you can enjoy various activities.

Capricornia Cays National Park
Address: 60-100km north-east of Gladstone Brisbane, Australia

Girringun National Park, Wallaman Falls
Address: Lumholtz QLD 4849, Australia

Gloucester Islands National Park
Address: Queensland 4805, Australia

Molle Island National Park
Address: Whitsundays QLD 4802, Australia

Lindeman Islands National Park
Address: Lindeman Islands QLD 4805, Australia

Magnetic Island National Park
Address: 40 Horseshoe Bay Road, Magnetic Island QLD 4819, Australia

Michaelmas and Upolu Cays National Park
Address: Queensland 4805, Australia

Paluma Range National Park
Address: Crystal Creek QLD 4816, Australia

Repulse Island National Park
Address: Whitsundays QLD 4802, Australia

Russell River National Park
Address: East Russell QLD 4861, Australia

Diving Sites

There are several unspoilt coral reefs surrounded by sandy cays that offer a great range of diving sites. Whether you prefer to snorkel in the inner Reef or opt for deep-sea diving in the outer Reef, a great variety of gorgeous, colourful soft corals can be found.

Bait Reef and Gary’s Lagoon Dive Site
Address: Whitsundays QLD 4802, Australia

Balgal Beach
Address: Queensland 4816, Australia

Beaver Reef Dive Site
Address: Mission Beach QLD 4852, Australia

Dive Adventures, Airlie Beach
Address: Unit 6 Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach, Australia

The Moltke Dive Site
Address: Magnetic Island, QLD, Australia

Whitehaven Beach
Address: Whitsundays QLD 4802, Australia

Other Attractions

Beaches, diving, and water sports are the biggest attractions for tourists visiting the Great Barrier Reef.

Reef HQ Aquarium
Address: 2/68 Flinders St, Townsville QLD 4810, Australia

Hill Inlet
Address: Whitsunday Island QLD, Australia

Hook Island Observatory
Address: Whitsunday Island QLD, Australia

Lady Musgrave Island
Address: Queensland 4805, Australia

Lake McKenzie
Address: Fraser Island QLD 4581, Australia

Lake Wabby
Address: Fraser Island QLD 4581, Australia