The Great Barrier Reef in Far North Queensland is on most peoples BucketList. It was always on my bucketlist and now one of the most memorable experiences to date.
The Great Barrier Reef is the largest living thing on Earth, spanning over 2300km. And definitely an experience for the whole family.
Here are 5 Things to Do When you visit Hamilton Island & The Great Barrier Reef.
Snorkel or Scuba Dive the Great Barrier Reef.
Regardless which part of the reef you decide to explore, either way its an amazing experience.
Most hotels and reef day cruises and offer all your equipment, including snorkelling and scuba gear, fish food, stinger suits, flippers and googles.
Book a Day on the Reef Cruise
Snorkel with a huge array of tropical fish. See coral formations that don’t exist anywhere else on the planet. And discover all the beauty of this natural wonder, with this relaxed day trip that’s suitable for the whole family.
Travelling by catamaran, you’ll spend most of the day at Reefworld Pontoon, located on beautiful Hardy Reef. Here, you can enjoy a whole range of activities - both above and below the water.
Helicopter Ride over the HEART REEF
I remember first seeing the Heart Shaped reef when Oprah came to Australia. Take an unforgettable, ten minute scenic helicopter ride over the iconic Heart Reef. This can be arranged on the boat ride out to the reef dependent on availability for the day and costs start at $145 per person.
Hire A Gold Buddy and Explore the Island
This is the perfect way to get around hamilton Island. Take a self-drive tour, or hire a golf buggy to go between your accommodation and points of interest across the island. Each buggy can carry 4 passengers and restraints are available for children. The cost to hire starts from 1 Hour for $46. Our group of friends held a fun Orienteering activity. Each team had a questions relating to Hamilton Island, land marks etc and also involving the local staff. This was just another memorable experience to have on the island.
Early Morning Bushwalk to see the Sunrise from Passage Peak!
If you want to see a specular sunrise, the one at hamilton island at the highest peak (Passage Peak) is one of the most breathtaking. It is recommended the Passage Peak walk is commenced from the Scenic Trail Entrance. This is a spectacular but challenging walk. Once you have negotiated the final steep section of this trail you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Whitsundays from the highest point on Hamilton Island, Passage Peak. Allow at least 90mins- 2hours depending on the fitness level of your friends and arrive at 6am..in time to see the sun rise. Check your local Sunrise times.
Either way... put the Great Barrier Reef on your Bucket list. It is a truly magnificent experience for all ages. Whether you want to stay on the island and explore the local village, play gold or just relax by the pool or you want and adventures day on the Reef, there is something for everyone.
Read more at http://www.hamiltonisland.com.au