The Great Barrier Reef - Australia's Underwater Paradise

Visiting Queensland without taking in some of the splendor of the Great Barrier Reef is akin to trekking to Paris and closing your eyes to the Eiffel Tower. It just doesn't make any sense! If truly exploring the Great Barrier Reef is your desire, you are going to find this region offers lots to see and do both in and out of the water.nnThe Great Barrier Reef starts off the coast of Bundaberg, which is just over 350 km north of Brisbane. It continues north for more than 2,000 km, all the way to western Papua New Guinea. Considered one of the natural wonders of the world and one of World Heritage's listed sites, the reef is so massive it is even visible from space.nnWith more than 3,000 individual reefs, 300 coral cays and hundreds of islands, the region that surrounds the Great Barrier Reef is one that attractions millions of holidaymakers a year. Visitors here find the tropical climate makes travel pleasurable almost any time. Boasting more than 300 days of sunshine a year, the region's temperatures can go up to about 33 degrees Celsius in the summer. They only dip down to about 14 in the dead of winter.nnMainland towns and cities where reef adventures typically start include Cairns, Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Townsville and Mackay. Each of these destinations offers its own unique appeals. Mackay, for example, is home to botanical gardens and some of the prettiest waterfront in the world. Cairns is noted for its Rainforestation nature park, the Kuranda Skyrail and Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park.nFrom the mainland, holidaymakers will find a number of major islands to explore. Many are accessible by flight, but some only by boat. Some of the highpoints along the reef include Lady Elliot Island, Heron Island, Brampton Island, Hamilton Island and Magnetic Island. Quite a few islands are inhabited and even include accommodations and tourist destinations.nThe reef itself is home to some of the most incredible sights in all of Australia. Those who dive into the waters around the many reefs are likely to see sights that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The area is home to some 1,500 species of fish, more than 400 species of coral and hundreds of different kinds of birds.nSome of the favorite activities for vacationers in the reef region include boating, scuba diving, snorkeling and swimming. The area is also home to plenty of opportunities to board fishing, charter and glass-bottom boats. Whale watching is prime between July and November, and turtle watching is always a favorite activity.nThe Great Barrier Reef Marine Park encompasses almost the whole of the reef. Many areas outside its boundaries are still restricted. Since whales, green turtles, dolphins and dugong rules the waters, it is always wise to check regulations before casting a fishing line.nFrom an underwater paradise and upscale island resorts to campervan holidays that enable visitors to take it all in, the Great Barrier Reef is a destination not to miss if Queensland travel is on tap.n