Great Barrier Reef
Reef · New South Wales ·
World's largest reef system with abundant marine life and islands.
Information
Australia Get directions
World's largest reef system with abundant marine life and islands.
Australia Get directions
"Islands within a vast marine park centered on an iconic and biologically unique reef system, where travelers come primarily for diving, snorkeling, fishing, sailing, and whale-watching; readers commend the quality of tour operators and describe visits as unforgettable and well worth the expense." - Hannah Walhout Hannah Walhout Hannah Walhout is a senior editor at Travel + Leisure, where she edits the Discoveries section of the print magazine and develops longer stories focusing on food, wine, and spirits. She has previously worked at Food & Wine and in the writing program at NYU Abu Dhabi. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A vast archipelago of around 980 islands surrounding a UNESCO World Heritage marine area that comprises the world’s largest reef system; the region contains roughly 3,000 individual reefs, more than 600 coral species, and over 2,000 marine and mammal species. Visitors rave about unparalleled snorkeling and abundant sea life, and the islands offer a wide range of accommodations—from luxury and wellness resorts to family-friendly and off-grid options—making it easy to find everything from private, high-end stays to accessible bases for exploring the reef." - Devorah Lev-Tov Devorah Lev-Tov Devorah Lev-Tov has been a travel, food, and drinks journalist for more than a decade, with bylines in publications like The New York Times, Vogue, and Bon Appétit, in addition to Travel + Leisure. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"The world’s largest coral reef system, stretching roughly 1,400 miles and supporting an extraordinary diversity of marine life — from tropical fish to sharks and dolphins — making it a premier destination for snorkeling and diving adventures." - Travel + Leisure Editors
"A UNESCO World Heritage Site stretching 1,400 miles off Australia’s northeastern coast, the Great Barrier Reef Islands are home to nearly 3,000 coral reefs and roughly 900 islands; readers praise the area's unparalleled physical beauty and the friendliness of the Australian people, with several recommending stays on Hamilton Island." - Travel + Leisure Editors
"A globally renowned reef destination prized for its spectacular marine life and dramatic coral formations—visitors describe it as offering 'endless adventure and beauty' with exceptional opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring biodiverse underwater environments." - Chloe Sachdev Chloe Sachdev Chloe Sachdev is a London-based lifestyle and travel journalist. Her portfolio includes work with Condé Nast Traveller, The Telegraph, The Evening Standard, Travel + Leisure, Suitcase, and others. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
