- Length~2,300 km
- UNESCO1981
- Best timeJune-October
- GatewaysCairns, Port Douglas, Airlie Beach
- DestinationAustralia
Visible from space, the reef is made up of almost 3,000 individual reefs and hundreds of islands. Cairns and Port Douglas are the main gateways to the outer reef, while Airlie Beach serves the Whitsundays. Choose an operator with eco-certification, and visit between June and October to avoid stinger season and the wettest months.
Read our Great Barrier Reef guide for where to base yourself.
Tours: Great Barrier Reef
Compare guided trips, transfers and tickets. Via GetYourGuide.
Location
Coordinates: -16.7500, 146.0000 · Open in Google Maps
Where to stay nearby
Book accommodation close to Great Barrier Reef early in peak season, especially on small islands where rooms are limited.
Hotels near Great Barrier Reef
Compare prices and availability on Booking.com. Via Booking.com.
Related guides
Australia vs New Zealand: Which Should You Visit?
Reef and outback or mountains and fiords? A side-by-side comparison of Australia and New Zealand to help you choose, or plan a trip that combines both.
What to Pack for Oceania: Packing Lists, Reef-Safe Sunscreen and Biosecurity Rules
Lagoons, alpine passes and outback heat in one trip. Here is what to pack for Oceania, which sunscreens to avoid, and how to stay on the right side of strict Australia and NZ biosecurity rules.
The Best Time to Visit Australia, Month by Month and Region by Region
Australia's seasons vary wildly by region. Here is when to visit the reef, Uluru, Sydney, Melbourne and Tasmania, month by month, with crowd and price tips.
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.