The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and it’s easy to see why. Stretching along the Queensland coastline, this massive reef system is alive with colourful coral, unique marine life, and unbelievably clear waters. If you’ve recently moved to Australia, visiting the Great Barrier Reef is probably high on your bucket list.
At Remitly, we understand that settling into a new country comes with a mix of excitement and challenges, from navigating daily life to planning unforgettable experiences like this one. Whether you’re wondering when to go, how to get there, or which tour to choose, we’ve got you covered with practical tips to make your trip smooth and memorable.
Overview of the Great Barrier Reef
If you’ve just moved to Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is probably one of those places you’ve heard about and have made a mental note to visit one day. You’ll be able to see bright anemones dancing in the currents, giant clams resting on the seafloor, and sea turtles swimming gracefully past snorkelers. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a manta ray making a grand entrance.
Spanning over 2,300 kilometres along the Queensland coastline, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system on the planet. It’s so big that it can even be seen from space! The reef is made up of over 3,000 individual reefs and 900 islands, stretching from the northern tip of Queensland near Cape York down to Bundaberg in the south. This means you have plenty of options when deciding where to start your adventure.
Planning for the best experience
Because the Great Barrier Reef is huge, it’s best to plan ahead to make sure you have the best experience. Deciding when to go, what kind of tour suits you best, and how much you want to spend can help you avoid any last-minute stress.
There are plenty of ways to visit the Great Barrier Reef, like a quick day trip, a liveaboard adventure under the stars, flying over the Whitsundays or snorkelling among schools of tropical fish in Port Douglas. Thinking ahead also means you can find better deals on flights and accommodation, so you finally get to tick the Great Barrier Reef off your must-visit list.
Best ways to experience the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef isn’t just one single destination, it’s an enormous underwater playground stretching along the Queensland coast. Whether you’re up for an action-filled day of snorkelling and diving or prefer to take it easy on a scenic cruise, there are endless ways to experience the Great Barrier Reef.
Top things to do on the Great Barrier Reef
- Snorkelling: A classic way to witness the reef’s life beneath the surface. Most tours provide snorkel gear and basic instructions, so you only need to float and enjoy the view.
- Scuba diving: The reef has dive spots for all experience levels, from shallow sites perfect for beginners to drift dives for the more adventurous.
- Glass-bottom boat rides: If you’d rather stay dry but still want to see the reef up close, a glass-bottom boat is a great option. It’s perfect for families or anyone wanting to sit back and take in the view.
- Catamaran cruises: A catamaran cruise is great if you want to enjoy the reef at a slower pace. Some cruises include a barbecue lunch, snorkelling stops, and scenic vantage points.
- Day trips: If you’re based in Cairns, Townsville, or Mission Beach, a day trip is a great way to explore the reef. Some tours take you to floating pontoons with snorkelling and diving platforms, while others use smaller boats to visit multiple reef spots in one trip.
Popular Great Barrier Reef tours and activities
- Full-day tours: Many operators in Cairns or Port Douglas offer full-day tours to the outer reef, where you’ll find some of the most stunning coral formations and marine life.
- Overnight or liveaboard trips: If one day on the reef isn’t enough, you could book an immersive night experience. Liveaboard trips give you more time in the water, plus the chance to do night diving and sunrise snorkelling.
- Helicopter flights: For a bird’s-eye view of the Great Barrier Reef, consider a scenic heli-tour. You’ll be able to see famous sights like Heart Reef and the swirling blue patterns of the ocean.
- Eco-tours: If you want to learn about the reef, conservation, and responsible interaction, Great Barrier Reef Eco Tourism is the way to go. They often have marine biologists on board, so you’ll gain deeper insights into reef ecology and ways to protect it.
Getting to the Great Barrier Reef
With so many places to start your journey, getting to the Great Barrier Reef is as much a part of the adventure as the reef itself. Choosing the right starting point depends on your budget, schedule, and what kind of experience you’re after.
Best launch points along the Queensland Coast
- Cairns: Often referred to as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a popular starting point for visitors. It’s well-connected to other major Australian cities by air and is known for its lively backpacker scene. Boats leave daily for the reef, some for half a day, others for full-day or multi-day adventures.
- Hamilton Island: If you’re looking for a more luxurious and relaxing experience, Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays is a fantastic choice. Flights to Hamilton Island are available from major Australian cities, and ferries connect it to nearby islands.
- Townsville: For those wanting a slightly quieter experience, Townsville is another great option. From here, you can take a ferry to Magnetic Island or hop on a reef tour to less crowded parts of the reef. Townsville has its own airport and is also accessible by road and rail.
- Bundaberg: If you prefer a quieter reef experience away from the big crowds, Bundaberg might be the perfect spot. It’s especially known for its connection to Mon Repos, where you can see loggerhead turtles nesting and hatching in the right season.
Tips for affordable travel
- Look out for flight deals: Airlines often run special deals, especially outside of peak holiday periods. Flights into Cairns, Townsville, or the Whitsundays can be affordable if you book at the right time.
- Consider driving or taking the train: If you want to see more of Queensland, a road trip or train journey can be a scenic and budget-friendly way to get to the reef. Just keep in mind that Australia is big, so allow plenty of time for travel.
- Book ferries in advance: If you’re heading to islands like Hamilton or Fitzroy Island, ferry and catamaran services run regularly. However, spots can fill up quickly during school holidays, so consider booking ahead.
Where to stay near the Great Barrier Reef
Finding the right place to stay is just as important as choosing your reef tour. Whether you’re looking for a luxury retreat, a cosy mid-range hotel, or a budget-friendly hostel, there’s an option to suit every traveller.
Accommodation for different budgets
- Luxury resorts: If you’re in the mood for a five-star stay, consider one of the high-end resorts with private beaches, infinity pools, and direct access to reef tours.
- Mid-range hotels: Cities like Cairns and Port Douglas have plenty of well-priced hotels with comfortable rooms, pools, and easy access to local restaurants and tour operators.
- Budget hostels: If you’re traveling on a budget or backpacking your way through Australia, you’ll find great hostels in central Cairns near the Esplanade or in Airlie Beach for that classic Whitsunday experience.
Family-friendly accommodation
If you’re travelling with your children, having the right accommodation can make all the difference. Holiday apartments with kitchen facilities help cut down on dining costs, while all-inclusive resorts offer built-in entertainment for the whole family. For a more relaxed, community feel, holiday parks are a great option, many have pools, playgrounds, and barbecue areas.
Eco-friendly accommodation
As you settle into Australia, you’ll soon see that Australia takes pride in its attitude towards sustainability. So, if you’re looking to reduce your environmental footprint while exploring the reef, there are plenty of eco-friendly stays.
Eco-lodges are built with sustainable materials and often support local conservation efforts, while green-certified hotels follow strict eco-practices. Look for Green Globe or EarthCheck certifications. For a truly unique experience, Coral Cay resorts on small islands offer low-impact stays that help preserve the delicate reef ecosystem.
Costs and budgeting for your Great Barrier Reef trip
A trip to the Great Barrier Reef can be as affordable or as extravagant as you want. With a bit of planning, you can have a great experience without breaking the bank.
How much does it cost to go to the Great Barrier Reef?
Prices vary depending on the type of tour, extras like scuba diving, and how long you stay.
- Full-day reef tours: Expect to pay between 250 and 300 AUD per person, usually including snorkel gear and lunch.
- Introductory scuba dive add-ons: If you want to try diving, it’s an extra 80 to 120 AUD.
- Scenic flights: Helicopter or plane tours will usually start from 250 AUD.
- Accommodation: Budget-friendly hostels start at 28 AUD per night, while luxury resorts can be around 1000 AUD or more.
Budget travel tips and deals
If you’re flexible with your travel dates, off-peak seasons (outside school holidays and major tourist months) often mean lower prices on tours and accommodation. Some operators offer package deals that bundle reef tours, meals, and accommodation at a discounted rate, so it’s worth comparing these to booking everything separately. Many tour operators also offer group discounts, so booking together can help cut costs.
How to save money on tours and activities
If you want to travel with your family, check online for family passes to reduce the per-person cost for parents and kids. If you’re feeling spontaneous, keep an eye out for last-minute deals. Some travel agencies in Cairns and Airlie Beach offer discounted rates if they need to fill extra spots.
Also, booking directly through tour operators or sites like Queensland.com can sometimes get you access to exclusive promo codes or seasonal discounts. Consider doing plenty of research before booking to find ways to make your Great Barrier Reef adventure more affordable.
Essential tips for a memorable visit
To make the most of your Great Barrier Reef adventure, it helps to plan around the seasons, follow safety guidelines, and travel responsibly.
When is the best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef?
- High season (June to August): Cooler temperatures, low humidity, and crystal-clear waters make this the best time for snorkelling and diving. The downside is that there are bigger crowds, especially in popular areas like Cairns and the Whitsundays.
- Shoulder seasons (April–May, September–October): These months offer warm, comfortable weather and fewer tourists while still maintaining excellent water visibility.
- Wet season (November to March): Expect hot and humid weather with occasional rain, but also fewer crowds. But be careful, as this is jellyfish and stinger season in some areas, your tour provider will likey provide stinger suits for your experience.
Safety considerations and travel tips
- Swim smart: Always follow instructions from tour guides and wear a stinger suit if advised.
- Protect yourself from the sun: The Australian sun is strong, especially on the open water. Use reef-safe sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring light, long-sleeved clothing.
- Check the weather: Conditions can change quickly, especially if you’re heading to remote reef locations. Consider checking forecasts before booking trips.
- Stay hydrated: Queensland’s tropical heat can be intense, so bring plenty of water, even on shorter outings.
- Respect marine life: You can look, but never touch. Coral is delicate, and some species can be sharp or toxic.
Responsible and sustainable tourism practices
The Great Barrier Reef is under pressure from climate change and human activity, so responsible tourism helps protect it:
- Avoid feeding wildlife: It disrupts their natural diet and can lead to health problems.
- Choose reef-safe products: Some sunscreens contain chemicals that harm coral. Look for eco-friendly alternatives.
- Support conservation efforts: Some tour operators contribute to reef protection programs or offer opportunities to participate in conservation activities.
- Leave no trace: Even tiny bits of plastic can be harmful to marine life, so always take your rubbish with you.
With a little care and planning, your visit to the Great Barrier Reef can be unforgettable, not just for you, but for generations to come.
FAQs
What is the best way to see the Great Barrier Reef?
There’s no single “best” way to see the Great Barrier Reef. It depends on your preferences. Snorkelling and scuba diving offer immersive underwater experiences. However, if you’d rather stay dry, consider a glass-bottom boat or catamaran cruise. Helicopter or seaplane rides also provide a bird’s eye view of the reef. If you have lots of time, consider combining a day trip with a scenic flight to get the full picture of the Great Barrier Reef.
How do you get to the Great Barrier Reef?
Most visitors fly into Cairns, Townsville, or the Whitsundays (Hamilton Island) and then explore local tour options. You can also drive or take the train along coastal Queensland and organise boat transfers or day trips to the reef from various towns. Each region, Cairns, Mission Beach, Airlie Beach, Port Douglas, or Bundaberg, provides a gateway to different sections of the Great Barrier Reef.
How can tourists visit the Great Barrier Reef?
Most tourists access the reef by booking a tour through operators in Cairns, the Whitsundays, Townsville, or Bundaberg. You can choose from half- or full-day trips, multi-day cruises, or even an outer reef liveaboard experience. Travel by boat is standard, but you can also find tours that include short plane or helicopter rides to specific reef sites like Heart Reef near Hamilton Island.
How much does it cost to go to the Great Barrier Reef?
Prices vary based on the type of experience you want. A full-day snorkel tour from Cairns or Port Douglas typically runs between 250 and 300 AUD per person. Additional costs, like an introductory dive or scenic flight, can push the price higher. Accommodation ranges from backpacker hostels around 28 AUD per night to luxury resorts costing several hundred or even thousands of dollars. Try to keep an eye out for package deals and off-peak discounts to cut costs.