Title: Great Barrier Reef Travel Guide: Best of Great Barrier Reef, Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific Travel 2026 | Expedia.co.uk [Hotels in Great Barrier Reef](https://expedia.co.uk/Great-Barrier-Reef-Hotels.d6061129.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Holiday Rentals in Great Barrier Reef](https://expedia.co.uk/Great-Barrier-Reef-Holiday-Rentals.d6061129.Travel-Guide-HolidayRentals)[Flights to Great Barrier Reef](https://expedia.co.uk/Cheap-Flights-To-Great-Barrier-Reef.d6061129.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Things to do in Great Barrier Reef](https://expedia.co.uk/Things-To-Do-In-Great-Barrier-Reef.d6061129.Travel-Guide-Activities)[Great Barrier Reef Car Hire](https://expedia.co.uk/Compare-Cheap-Car-Hire-In-Great-Barrier-Reef.d6061129.Car-Hire-Guide)[Great Barrier Reef Holidays](https://expedia.co.uk/Great-Barrier-Reef.d6061129.Holidays-City-Breaks) # Great Barrier Reef Travel Guide ## Tourist Guide ![Photo provided by Tourism and Events Queensland](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/29000/29303-Great-Barrier-Reef.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) [Photo provided by Tourism and Events Queensland](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/29000/29303-Great-Barrier-Reef.jpg) ![Great Barrier Reef](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/515000/515141-great-barrier-reef.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Great Barrier Reef](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/515000/515047-great-barrier-reef.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Photo provided by Tourism and Events Queensland](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/29000/29308-Great-Barrier-Reef.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) [Photo provided by Tourism and Events Queensland](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/29000/29308-Great-Barrier-Reef.jpg) ![Great Barrier Reef](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/515000/515118-great-barrier-reef.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ## Visit Great Barrier Reef Where to stay Things to do #### The largest coral reef in the world lies just off the coast of Cairns and offers thousands of kilometres of coral, marine life and untouched white sand beaches. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. It stretches for 1,240 miles (2,000 kilometers) in the warm waters off the coast of North Queensland. The reef is known for its pristine white-sand beaches, secluded islands and crystal-clear waters brimming with coral and marine life. The World Heritage listed site is best visited by day trip from Cairns. Snorkel, dive or cruise the reef on a glass-bottomed boat. This is the world’s largest coral reef. It encompasses close to 3,000 individual reefs and 900 islands that stretch over almost 133,000 square miles (350,000 square kilometers). It’s estimated to be about 600,000 years old, and is renowned for its stunning biodiversity. See tropical fish, sea turtles, whales, dolphins, porpoises, molluscs and giant clams that are more than 120 years old. Living organisms like sponges and starfish feed off the coral. The best way to enjoy the reef is to get on a boat and head out to sea. You can organize tours from the central tourism office in Cairns. There are a range of different tour companies and packages to choose from, whether you want to snorkel or dive, charter a yacht or stay overnight on an island. If you prefer to stay dry, sign up for a cruise on a glass-bottomed boat and explore the reef in an underwater observatory. Many islands make up the Great Barrier Reef, and some are easily reached by day trip from Cairns. The islands range from low-lying sand cays surrounded by crystal-clear water, to popular holiday islands dotted with resorts. Island hop as part of a tour or book a seat on a sea plane and spend a couple of nights in a luxury resort. June to October is considered peak season when there is the best water conditions and the most number of visitors. Come outside this season for reduced rates on accommodation and tours. The average seawater temperature is 79 F (26 C), and the air temperature is warm in winter and hot in summer. It takes anywhere between 90 minutes and two hours to reach the reef from Cairns. ### Where to stay in Great Barrier Reef ![Default Image](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/512000/512851-palm-cove.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Palm Cove Palm Cove is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Palm Cove Beach and Vie Spa Palm Cove, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Cairns. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Cairns-Palm-Cove.dx177486) ![Cairns which includes a city](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/40000/40310-Marlin-Marina.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Cairns Central Business District 4.5/5(69 area reviews) Cairns Central Business District is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Esplanade Lagoon and Cairns Marlin Marina. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Cairns-Cairns-Central-Business-District.dx6268031) ![Trinity Beach showing tropical scenes, a sandy beach and surfing](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/40000/40297-Trinity-Beach.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Trinity Beach Trinity Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Trinity Beach and Kewarra Beach, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Cairns. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Cairns-Trinity-Beach.dx12091) ![Default Image](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/512000/512945-yorkeys-knob.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Yorkeys Knob Yorkeys Knob is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Yorkeys Knob Beach and Half Moon Bay Golf Course. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Cairns-Yorkeys-Knob.dx6047619) ![Cairns Esplanade featuring a luxury hotel or resort, swimming and a pool](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/29000/29324-Cairns-Esplanade.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Cairns North Pristine beaches and ample dining options are well-reviewed features of Cairns North. Make a stop by top sights like Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland while you're exploring the area. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Cairns-Cairns-North.dx6131529) ![Queens Gardens showing forest scenes and a park](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/229000/229504-Queens-Gardens.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### North Ward North Ward is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Strand Waterpark and The Strand Beach while you're in town. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Townsville-North-Ward.dx6217111) - Top hotels in Great Barrier Reef - Top Holiday Rentals in Great Barrier Reef ![Hilton Cairns](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/10000/1300/1233/5c3e5487_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Hilton Cairns 34 Esplanade Cairns QLD £102 23 Jan - 24 Jan 2026 includes taxes & fees Stay at this luxury hotel in Cairns. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), room service and a 24-hour health club. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in their ... 9/10 Wonderful! (1,001 reviews) Good Reviewed on 20 Dec 2025 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=23%2F01%2F2026&endDate=24%2F01%2F2026&selected=1233&PinnedHotelID=1233&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=6061129) ![Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/20000/16100/16032/d15de08f_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns Pierpoint Road Cairns QLD £112 16 Jan - 17 Jan 2026 includes taxes & fees Stay at this family-friendly hotel in Cairns. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, 2 bars/lounges and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ... 8.8/10 Excellent! (1,001 reviews) Reception staff amazing at check in and out, nothing was too much trouble. House keeping excellent, room cleaned each day with nice notes left from the house clerking staff. Breakfast staff very happy and cheerful good variety. Horizon club was also fab Reviewed on 23 Dec 2025 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=16%2F01%2F2026&endDate=17%2F01%2F2026&selected=16032&PinnedHotelID=16032&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=6061129) ![Cairns Colonial Club Resort](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/90000/84300/84257/f46c662b_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Cairns Colonial Club Resort 18-26 Cannon Street Manunda QLD £65 8 Jan - 9 Jan 2026 includes taxes & fees Stay at this family-friendly hotel in Cairns. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 3 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their reviews. ... 8.4/10 Very Good! (1,003 reviews) Good hotel Reviewed on 20 Dec 2025 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=08%2F01%2F2026&endDate=09%2F01%2F2026&selected=84257&PinnedHotelID=84257&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=6061129) [See all 4,996 properties in Great Barrier Reef](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&startDate=25%2F12%2F2025&endDate=26%2F12%2F2025®ionId=6061129) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ![Whitsunday Apartments](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/2000000/1660000/1655600/1655585/38d864b5_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Whitsunday Apartments 14 Resort Drive Whitsundays QLD Stay at this beach aparthotel in Whitsundays. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a free airport shuttle. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in ... 9/10 Wonderful! (2,526 reviews) I took the garden view, which was 2nd floor, but turn out i can see both the beautiful garden and the beach. Room was really spacious and neat. Everything was in place from bedroom, toilet and kitchen stuff. Reviewed on 18 Dec 2025 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Whitsundays-Hotels-Whitsunday-Apartments.h1655585.Hotel-Information) ![Southern Cross Atrium Apartments](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/2000000/1120000/1119300/1119287/a60f0bb9_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Southern Cross Atrium Apartments 3-11 Water Street Cairns QLD Stay at this aparthotel in Cairns. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 3 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in their reviews. ... 8.4/10 Very Good! (1,600 reviews) Very Good Reviewed on 19 Dec 2025 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Cairns-Hotels-Southern-Cross-Atrium-Apartments.h1119287.Hotel-Information) ![Mirage Whitsundays](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/12000000/11070000/11066300/11066236/1c0aec6f_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Mirage Whitsundays 11 Altmann Avenue Cannonvale QLD Stay at this beach aparthotel in Cannonvale. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ... 9.4/10 Exceptional! (755 reviews) Great accommodation in lovely surroundings. The apartment was as good if not better than website suggests. Two nice pools and a casual bar for drinks and meals. Airlie Beach is great for shops, bars and restaurants. Whitsundays are wonderful and well worth the trip. Hopefully we will be back. Reviewed on 23 Dec 2025 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Airlie-Beach-Hotels-Mirage-Whitsundays.h11066236.Hotel-Information) [See all properties in Great Barrier Reef](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience®ionId=6061129&sort=VACATION_RENTAL) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ## Check Great Barrier Reef hotel availability [Tonight ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6061129&startDate=2025-12-24&endDate=2025-12-25)[24 Dec - 25 Dec](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6061129&startDate=2025-12-24&endDate=2025-12-25) [Tomorrow night ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6061129&startDate=2025-12-25&endDate=2025-12-26)[25 Dec - 26 Dec](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6061129&startDate=2025-12-25&endDate=2025-12-26) [This weekend ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6061129&startDate=26%2F12%2F2025&endDate=28%2F12%2F2025)[26 Dec - 28 Dec](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6061129&startDate=26%2F12%2F2025&endDate=28%2F12%2F2025) [Next weekend ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6061129&startDate=02%2F01%2F2026&endDate=04%2F01%2F2026)[2 Jan - 4 Jan](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6061129&startDate=02%2F01%2F2026&endDate=04%2F01%2F2026) ### Popular places to visit ![Cairns Esplanade showing a pool, a luxury hotel or resort and swimming](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/29000/29323-Cairns-Esplanade.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Cairns Esplanade Stroll along the boardwalk surrounded by palms tree and landscaped gardens and watch the sun set over the Coral Sea. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Cairns-Esplanade-Cairns-North.d6127785.Attraction) ![Whitehaven Beach](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/482000/482681-Whitsunday-Islands.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Whitehaven Beach Stroll along this famous beach on Whitsunday Island to experience its dazzling white sands and gently lapping waters in different hues of blue and green. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Whitehaven-Beach-Whitsundays.d6152056.Attraction) ![Port of Airlie which includes a bay or harbour](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/176000/176821-Port-Of-Airlie.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Port of Airlie This sun-kissed marina is your gateway to the world-famous Whitsunday Islands. Sail or drive here to shop or dine with views over the glistering turquoise waters. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Port-Of-Airlie-Airlie-Beach.d553248621592884319.Attraction) ![Airlie Beach Lagoon showing a pool, tropical scenes and swimming](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/176000/176791-Airlie-Beach-Lagoon.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Airlie Beach Lagoon Spend the day with the family enjoying the sheltered waters of Airlie Beach’s own tropical oasis, surrounded by landscaped gardens and grassy picnic areas. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Airlie-Beach-Lagoon-Airlie-Beach.d6283231.Attraction) ![Four Mile Beach which includes general coastal views and a sandy beach](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/60000/60836-Four-Miles-Beach.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Four Mile Beach One of the most-photographed stretches of beach in Australia has pristine white sands, waving palm trees, clear blue water and spectacular views across the ocean. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Four-Mile-Beach-Port-Douglas.d6047615.Attraction) ![Catseye Beach showing sailing and a sandy beach as well as a small group of people](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/176000/176720-Catseye-Beach.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Catseye Beach Swim, stroll, try exciting watersports or simply recline under the shade of palm trees and enjoy the views from one of Hamilton Island’s main beaches. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Catseye-Beach-Whitsundays.d6152060.Attraction) ### Things to do ![Great Barrier Reef Day Cruise to Reefworld](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/180269/59ccc3b3-aa7a-4cbb-87f8-4d04a0e5dec2.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Great Barrier Reef Adventure to Reefworld £93 per traveller **92%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/great-barrier-reef-adventure-to-reefworld.a180269.activity-details) ![Hamilton Island: Whitsundays Sunset Dinner Cruise](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/50560811/6c4fb468-cfe7-46d0-9642-a5fef9c95cb0.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Hamilton Island: Whitsundays Sunset Dinner Cruise £75 per adult [](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/hamilton-island-whitsundays-sunset-dinner-cruise.a50560811.activity-details) ![Private Standard Charter Experience in Whitsundays ](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/2931380/35be862c-e993-4b43-b14b-cefc9600c7a5.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Private Standard Charter Experience in Whitsundays £1,899 per traveller [](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/private-standard-charter-experience-in-whitsundays.a2931380.activity-details) [See all activities in Great Barrier Reef](https://expedia.co.uk/Things-To-Do-In-Great-Barrier-Reef.d6061129.Travel-Guide-Activities) ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save on select hotels when you book in the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. 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