What it is

A 40-room, all-inclusive hideaway that’s the only resort on the Great Barrier Reef’s national park, with bottomless adventures right on site.

What it isn't

Go, go, go. You can also opt to spoil yourself in their day spa, where locally-inspired treatments include a Tasmanian Mountain pepper berry facial.

What we think

Like climbing Mount Everest, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef is a bucket list mainstay. When you stay right on the premises, you can be sure to get it right—and that’s just what Lizard Island’s staffers have all but guaranteed when they arranged their experiences list. Want to go glass-bottomed sea kayaking? They have it. Feel like chartering your own 51-foot boat? They’ve got that too. Guides will show you all the unmissable marine moments in the Great Barrier Reef itself, with snorkeling tours through Mermaid Cove and Clam Gardens on the agenda. The best part of all your exploits is knowing you’ll come home to pure luxury: here, even “starter” Gardenview Rooms are showstoppers, with floor to ceiling windows, a leafy patio and a palette of serene grays and whites. Upgrade to an Oceanview Plunge Pool Villa for—you guessed it—an infinity edged pool that looks out on the Coral Sea.

You're here because

Every single guest feels like they own the place, thanks to all-inclusive service that means just that: all-inclusive. Your stay includes all meals; selected wines, beers and spirits; a mini bar that’s restocked each and every day; and infinite use of their flotilla of stand up paddle boards, clear sea kayaks, and even a motorized dinghy.

The Moment

You have to admit you were slightly worried whether the food here would be any good, but you couldn’t have been more wrong: every dish is divine. Tonight, you drift to Driftwood Bar to explore the on-property wine cellar and decide you’re never leaving. Heaven is a place on earth.

Restaurants & Bars

Salt Water Restaurant - Serving local seafood with 180-degree ocean views

Driftwood Bar - Pre-dinner drinks in a social setting

Marlin Bar - 1970's nautical-themed bar

Location

A one hour chartered flight from Cairns. Bring your best camera—you’ll want to preserve your views flying above the Great Barrier Reef forever.