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Lady Elliot Island

Lady Elliot Island is the most southerly island within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. It lies 85 kilometres northeast of Bundaberg and is a coral cay which is actually part of the reef.

Formed over a three thousand year period, you can learn all about the marine wonderland that is Lady Elliot Island on a guided reef walk. Bird watchers also flock here to observe 57 species of birds. More than 200,000 birds nest here during summer. Sea turtles including the endangered Loggerhead Turtle also nest on Lady Elliot during the summer month from late afternoon through until early morning from November to January. Baby turtles called 'hatchlings:' can be seen scampering to the ocean from January until April - also usually under the cover of darkness.

Lady Elliot Island Resort is a casual and relaxed paradise surrounded by shallow reefs and warm pale turquoise seas. Enjoy the wonders of the coral reef as well as the many resort activities associated with it. The reef education centre offers highly education display on the islands wildlife both above and below the waterline - including Lady Elliot's often tumultuous history. Guided walks to learn about the island wildlife, flora and survival tactics are all covered in detail.

The resort, located on the beachfront offers a low-key friendly atmosphere, which allows you to escape the usual pressures of every day life. The resort caters for just 100 guests and allows you to get back to nature away from the crowds and hectic pace of major tourist areas. The focus here is on nature - without the glitz and glamour of other resorts.

In the Directory

• Dive Resorts [1]

Photos

Snorkelling on the reef - Photo courtesy of Tourism QLD

Turtle hatchling - Photo courtesy of Tourism QLD

Birds nesting on island - Photo courtesy of Tourism QLD

Underwater Recommendations

The diving at Lady Elliot is fantastic with 10 dive sites including Lighthouse Bommie, Coral Gardens, Moiri and Shark Pool. The visibility is excellent and ranges from 20 to 50 metres. Explore the many shipwrecks in the waters off the island and Manta Rays - the island's icon - are regularly seen.

A fully equipped dive centre on the island caters for all interests and abilities - offering resort dives for the beginner through to advanced dives for the qualified. Dive courses are also offered.

Getting There

Bundaberg - Isis Highway off Highway 1. From Bundaberg you can catch a flight to Lady Elliot (35 minutes).
Nearest Airport: Lady Elliot Island Airport.