The two grand dames of the Southern Great Barrier Reef are Lady Musgrave Island and Lady Elliot Island. These two beauties offer exquisite swimming and snorkelling in clear waters populated with abundant marine life.

The two islands are coral cays, low sandy islands that sit directly on the Reef itself. There’s no better way to experience the reef than to dive right in from these beautiful sandy beaches. Many of the tours also include glass bottomed boats so that you can see the world below in comfort.

Visit the islands by air or by sea. And why not unwind on these tropical oases by spending a few days in an eco-lodge or private apartment?