Best time to visit: May - October

What makes Lizard Island so special?

Lizard Island is not near the reef; it is part of it. This is one of the only properties in Australia where the reef begins at the beach, not after a boat ride. Guests have direct access to some of the most pristine and protected parts of the Great Barrier Reef, just steps from their suite. The experience is genuinely remote. The island can only be reached by light aircraft and is completely free from day visitors, cruise ships, or foot traffic. There is only one lodge. No crowds, no queues, and no noise other than the sea.

Beyond its beauty, Lizard Island holds scientific and cultural significance. It is home to a world-renowned marine research station and was the site where Captain Cook first charted his course through the reef. The island remains wild and ecologically intact, offering the rare chance to witness nature on its own terms.

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Who is a trip to Lizard Island best suited to? ‍

Lizard Island is for guests who are looking to truly disconnect. The island appeals to those who want to feel immersed in nature without compromising on comfort; wildlife lovers, divers, and snorkelers seeking hassle-free proximity to the reef. Lizard Island is ideal for couples and honeymooners seeking privacy and unhurried luxury, or solo travellers who value space and seclusion.

‍Visit Lizard Island if:

‍You want to see the Great Barrier Reef without sharing it, you are seeking peaceful surroundings and time in nature. Lizard Island makes you feel like you’ve reached the edge of the world, and that it was worth the effort.

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Top Experiences:

‍-Swim directly into the reef from the beach, without needing to arrange a dive boat or group.

-Explore 24 deserted beaches.

-Snorkel or dive at Cod Hole, one of the Great Barrier Reef’s most iconic underwater sites.

-Climb to Cook’s Look, where Captain Cook stood in 1770 to map his way forward.

-Watch turtles nest or hatch depending on the time of year. Spot whales migrating along the outer reef.-Enjoy private picnics on remote beaches, with gourmet food delivered by boat or dinghy.

-Dine on seasonal Australian cuisine, with reef fish, tropical fruit, and native ingredients featured throughout.

-Stay in a Pavilion Suite, the most secluded option on the island with uninterrupted ocean views and total privacy.