Great Barrier Reef is a large coral reef system located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland, Australia. It is the world’s largest coral reef system, spanning over 2,300 kilometers and consisting of more than 900 islands.

History:

The Great Barrier Reef was formed over millions of years as coral colonies grew on top of each other. The reef was first discovered by European explorers in the 18th century and was used for fishing and pearling in the following centuries. Today, the Great Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is protected by the Australian government.

Visiting Points:

  1. Snorkeling and diving: The Great Barrier Reef is known for its clear waters and abundant marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving.

  2. Heart Reef: A coral formation in the shape of a heart that is only visible from the air. Visitors can take a scenic flight over the reef to see the Heart Reef.

  3. Green Island: A small island located on the outer reef that offers snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boat tours.

  4. Cairns: A city located near the Great Barrier Reef that serves as a hub for tourism. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the reef or visit the nearby rainforest.

Hotels:

There are several hotels located on or near the Great Barrier Reef, including:

  1. Lizard Island Resort: A luxury resort located on a private island on the Great Barrier Reef.

  2. Orpheus Island Lodge: An exclusive resort located on a secluded island in the reef.

  3. Hayman Island Resort: A five-star resort located on a private island in the Whitsunday Islands, near the Great Barrier Reef.

  4. Cairns hotels: There are many hotels located in Cairns, ranging from budget to luxury options.

Rent a Car:

It is not possible to rent a car and drive to the Great Barrier Reef, as it is located offshore. However, visitors can rent cars in nearby cities such as Cairns and use them to explore the surrounding area. It is important to note that driving in Australia is done on the left-hand side of the road, which may be different from what you are used to if you are from a country that drives on the right-hand side.