Inspire Magazine - Explore the Southern Great Barrier Reef

story by: Inspire Magazine

Colourful coral bursting with life, warm and inviting azure waters and mile upon mile of soft, golden sand – this is life on the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Check out the amazing islands and activities, and prepare to fall in love with this beautiful part of Queensland.

WHERE TO STAY

Heron Island - A Special Piece of Paradise
Imagine snorkelling in twinkling waters amongst scores of rainbow-coloured fish, bright coral and the sun beating down on you. Get up close with giant sea turtles and maybe even reef sharks as you experience this special piece of paradise. When you're all worn out from a long day of getting amongst nature, indulge in a relaxing spa treatment to work out those tensions and knots.

Lady Elliot Island - A Natural Oasis
Lady Elliot Island is a natural oasis hosting an eco-friendly resort. It's small, and you can walk around its gorgeous entirety in 45 minutes. There's nothing quite like seeing majestic creatures up-close such as manta rays, whales and dolphins and there are over 1,200 different marine species in these dazzling waters whether you decide to swim, snorkel or plunge into the depths.

Yeppoon & Rockhampton - Gems of the Capricorn Coast
Home to a quaint seaside community, pristine beaches and delightful coves, Yeppoon has an unbeatable tropical climate. There are dozens of beautiful offshore islands to explore, and one not-to-be-missed excursion is a day trip to Great Keppel Island, just 20km offshore. Rockhampton is a sun-drenched piece of paradise which experiences over 300 days of sunshine every year, so you can enjoy lounging beachside, sipping on fruity drinks and soaking in the scenery.

HOT Tips from Coast FM's Brian Kelly:

1. BEST BEACH/COASTAL ESCAPE - Just 20 minutes drive out of Bundaberg is a little coastal town called Bargara, which reminds me so much of Mount Maunganui. There are some wonderful apartments along the beach frontage that overlook the Coral Coast.
2. BEST EATS - Indulge Café in Bundaberg’s main street has a reputation for serving the freshest local produce. Owners Amanda and Larry Hinds source all their food locally. Make sure you try the burgers.
3. BEST TREATS - The variety of ginger beers that are produced at the famous Bundaberg Ginger Beer factory. At last count they let me sample 14 different flavours, a real tasty treat.
4. DONT LEAVE THE REGION WITHOUT SEEING - The world famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery. The guided tour is a must, ending up in the tasting room. Again, I didn’t realise there were so many different types of rum!

SOUTHERN GREAT BARRIER REEF TO DO LIST

CAPRICORN CAVES
Take a tour and explore vast underground cathedrals, caverns and awe-inspiring rock formations. Those willing to get a little more adventurous can head beneath the surface abseiling, squeezing through narrow cave passages and crawling through dark shafts.

LARC TOURS
This iconic pink amphibious craft is at home both on land and at sea, with the ability to climb steep headlands. Explore the national parks and waterways bordering the picturesque town of 1770, known as the birthplace of Queensland.

Soak up the pristine natural environments and spot Australian wildlife and migratory birds at its best.

GREAT KEPPEL ISLAND
Just a 30 minute ferry ride from the Capricorn Coast mainland, this tropical paradise has 17 pristine beaches, lush green forest, wonderful wildlife, great snorkelling and plenty of walking tracks – perfect for a day trip!

BUNDABERG DISTILLERY
The Bundaberg Distillery is well-worth a visit for lovers of rum. Take a distillery tour and see the inner workings of the factory - not to mention you'll get to taste a tipple or two on your way around!

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