Lizard Island

Lizard Island rests within the blue waters of the Great Barrier Reef, so it’s no surprise that a trip here is all about the ocean and relaxation. Snorkel some of the reef’s most incredible dive sites like Cod Hole, where you can swim alongside grey reef sharks and schools of tropical fish. After, hike the 4km (2.5mi) track to Cook’s Look for jaw-dropping views. Take time to indulge and unwind with a private picnic or savour fresh seafood by the waterfront.

If you can do it on your own boat, it is a 10/10 destination. Excellent anchorage, friendly people and absolutely stunning scenery in all directions. I spent a week here and am already planning my next trip back.

Best things: only about 60 guests so you’re snorkeling/diving/fishing with a small group and you’re on and around a private island. They have all the equipment you need. Villas are super nice; ask for one near the restaurant and beach villa for convenience. Good food options. Not great things: hot and muggy, many biting bugs. Sometimes chef gets too fancy with sauces and preparations; some basic options would bd nice. Only one dive boat per day, so a bit limited.

Had such a wonderful time at Lizard Island. Snorkeling at this pristine island is something I’ll always remember! Pros: Fantastic food and drinks (inclusive and plentiful), staff was super friendly and personable, provided snacks/stocked mini bar in the room, location is at amazing reef/snorkeling spot, you can rent (inclusive) a small boat to drive over to even better snorkeling, provided kayaks/snorkel gear/misc fun activities on site, beautiful location/scenery, you can pay additional for extras (boat to guided snorkeling on the inner reef which I 100% recommend, massages, etc), AC was good in rooms and in the gym. Cons: You’re in a tropical environment so rooms are a bit more rustic than the most luxurious of resorts (think, you’re going to get some lizards in your room and they’re going to leave evidence behind and room decor is pretty bare bones). I had to ask the team to support a few requests 2-3 times before something would happen, which surprised me for this “level” of resort. Outdoor fan broken (which was needed to sit outside), tiles were very dirty in our room upon arrival, both of those requests took 2-3 calls over a full day or two days before we were given an update or they were addressed. Despite this I still give my stay five stars, just something to be aware of so if it happens to you, stay on top of it early. Pool does not have a great view, so to soak in the view you need to put on your stinger suit and dip in the ocean or risk getting in the water without one. I had an absolutely amazing time at Lizard Island - you’re in a tropical, natural island so as long as you can embrace that this team did an amazing job at elevating your experience.

Coconut bay/beach was STUNNING, but take plenty of water!! 🤤 Cooks Lookout is a must but is a decent trek, allow 3 hours return. A cheeky wine/dinner at Marlin Bar is lovey. They have a pool table there too!🍷 For more info check out our guides/Vlogs on YouTube at Kristina’s Travels

Arrived and immediately extended our stay. Exceptional service, exceptional food and beautiful rooms. The new GM Leon happily spends his valuable time with guests and his staff, Madison, Jacob, Morgan, Matt, Houda, Carolina, to name a few, are fantastic. I don't know how the chef keeps up with his menu, it changed daily for lunch and dinner and we couldn't fault anything. However, the stand out by far was Paul, he's knowledgable about the island and nothing was ever too much trouble. Leon is lucky to have him.

Amazing 6star/Michelin/World class quality food! Top dollar/luxury all-inclusive resort. You pay for that 5star service, food & exclusive accommodation. Apart from meal times, you barely see other guests. Perfect honeymoon destination

We recently stayed at the Lizard Island Resort and had an amazing time. The staff are so friendly and really went out of their way to make sure we had a good time. It isn't cheap but for a special occasion it is completely worth it.

Their website says it best: "This group of six high islands lies midway between the coast and the outer barrier reef. Surrounded by coral reefs, the islands are fringed by mangroves and sandy beaches, and cloaked in grasslands, woodlands and wind-sheared heaths." Our cruise took us to a deserted beach where we snorkeled and kayaked over beautiful coral and fish. Lizard Island is over a thousand miles north of Brisbane and about as far north as anyone in Australia goes along the reef. There's a top end resort on the other side of the island, but we say no one else.