The world’s largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef is a prominent destination in Australia. Tourists can enjoy a cruise to diving sites such as Michaelmas Cay and Agincourt Reef to explore its crystal clear waters. Romantics can fly over the uniquely shaped Heart Reef or check out the unmarred paradise that is Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island. For some close encounters with wildlife, you can head to Magnetic Island for its thriving koala population or feed friendly stingrays at Daydream Island’s man-made Living Reef. With so much biodiversity to explore, it is to no surprise that the boom in tourism has resulted in many island resorts being developed. Unsure as to which is the best choice? Scroll down for the top island resorts near the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and island location. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on March 23, 2024.
1. Heron Island (from USD 276)
Resort pricing includes guided tours and snorkeling gear. Dinner buffet is overpriced at $50 pp.
Abundant wildlife, pristine waters, and free educational island tours.
Secluded island with crystal clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and wildlife encounters.
Breakfast buffet is good, but dinner buffet is overpriced and lacks variety. Limited healthy options.
Heron Island features bright and capacious accommodations that open to stunning balconies or terraces with forest or ocean views. Each room also comes with beach towels and sun umbrellas for guests’ use. Diving and snorkelling excursions are offered at this resort. It has an impressive day spa for therapeutic massages as well as an in-house restaurant that offers buffet and a la carte options, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals while you marvel at the sea.
Heron Island
Address: Great Barrier Reef
483.55 km (300.5 mi) from Ocean Rafting
2. Green Island Resort (from USD 397)
What makes this resort spectacular is its exquisite beauty and eco-friendliness. Offering spacious suites that feature private balconies with rainforest or pool views, this eco-resort ensures guests maximum comfort and enjoyment. Not only are their suites air-conditioned, but they also come with separate baths and showers. On-site facilities include two swimming pools, a poolside bar, and a gorgeous day spa that offers massages and beauty treatments. It has an on-site restaurant that serves tropical cuisine, which you can enjoy on the outdoor terrace.
Green Island Resort
Address: Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence St, Cairns
485.02 km (301.4 mi) from Ocean Rafting
3. InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, an IHG Hotel (from USD 482)
Imagine a tropical paradise filled with white sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and towering palm trees. Located on the splendorous Whitsundays, InterContinental Hayman Island Resort provides luxurious and modern accommodations that complement the serene ambience of the beach. Not only do rooms feature private balconies with views of the sea or botanical gardens, but they also come with private bathrooms, coffee-making facilities, and complimentary breakfast. Other on-site facilities include a spa, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a tennis court, and a swimming pool.
InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, an IHG Hotel
Address: Hayman Island
29.29 km (18.2 mi) from Ocean Rafting
4. Daydream Island Resort (from USD 214)
Reasonable pricing for rooms, but limited and expensive dining options
Abundance of activities including pools, cinema, and marine life observatory
Stunning island location with picturesque views and easy accessibility
Limited dining options with high prices, but great variety for inclusive breakfast
There is nothing quite as impressive as Daydream Island Resort, which exudes opulence at every corner. This stylish and tranquil retreat is outfitted with modern rooms and suites that feature a spacious living area, air conditioning, and a flat-screen television with complimentary movies. Most rooms also come with stunning private balconies or terraces that offer views of the ocean, marina, or tropical gardens. Guests are free to explore the resort’s numerous facilities, such as the open-air cinema, outdoor pools, and three dining options. There is even a rainforest walking trail as well as a well-equipped fitness centre for active travellers.
Daydream Island Resort
Address: Daydream Island, Whitsunday Passage via Airlie Beach
10.54 km (6.6 mi) from Ocean Rafting
5. Fitzroy Island Resort (from USD 139)
Reasonably priced hotel with separate bungalows near the forest and sea.
Air conditioning, grill, swimming pool, live music, snorkeling, and island living vibe.
Stunning location with beach huts, beautiful scenery, and easy snorkeling access.
Exceptional vegetarian options, good breakfast, and delicious food at the restaurant.
Located between the beach and the rainforest, Fitzroy Island Resort offers unprecedented views of the surrounding tropical greenery. Rooms here are well-furnished and come with air conditioning, a cable television, and an en suite bathroom for convenience. With on-site facilities such as an outdoor swimming pool with a bar and an in-house cinema, you can stay entertained. Guests are free to explore the bountiful rainforest trails or walk along the gorgeous beach. You can end your day by enjoying delicious meals at the on-site restaurant while you take in stunning sea views.
Fitzroy Island Resort
Address: Fitzroy Island
468.42 km (291.1 mi) from Ocean Rafting
6. Beach Club (from USD 484)
Slightly expensive, but expected for a site with no kids. Some guests felt it was a bit pricey, especially for drinks. Private transfers and included driver service were appreciated.
Direct beach access, infinity pool, gym, sauna, tennis courts, and free access to snorkels, fins, SUP boards, and kayaks. Regular complimentary drinks and nibbles around the pool. Free transport around the island.
Perfect beachfront location with exceptional views. Close to town with easy access to attractions and activities. Best spot on the island with a private beach and sea views.
Decadent and varied breakfast options. Superb food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A la carte breakfast with attentive wait staff. Dinner and beachside degustation were exceptional.
Situated amidst tropical gardens and a private sandy beach, Beach Club offers exclusive accommodations for adults. The property offers complimentary WiFi and airport/hotel transfers. This five-star resort’s rooms are equipped with a flat-screen television, an iPod dock, and a DVD player. It offers amazing Coral Sea views that you can witness from the balcony in your room. Beyond its outstanding interior design, it also boasts an in-house restaurant that is famous for its creative cocktails as well as a palm-fringed infinity pool for a refreshing swim.
Beach Club
Address: Resort Drive
26.93 km (16.8 mi) from Ocean Rafting
7. Orpheus Island Lodge (from USD 725)
Orpheus Island Lodge is a majestic resort located on the shores of Orpheus Island, offering extraordinary views of the Coral Sea. Guests are free to mingle in the al fresco dining area, where they can be served with gourmet meals prepared daily by the head chef with fresh local produce and seafood. The resort also boasts an outdoor pool and indigenous-inspired spa treatments at the on-site Gwandalan Day Spa. The beachfront rooms come with a flat-screen TV for entertainment and cosy beds with fresh linens for a good night’s rest.
Orpheus Island Lodge
Address: Orpheus Island
294.41 km (183.0 mi) from Ocean Rafting
Explore the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is a popular tourist destination in Australia, which offers majestic views and plenty of opportunities for water-based recreational activities, such as snorkelling and diving. Make the most of your stay by booking any of the top island resorts near the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
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