DESTINATION
ISLAND
STORY
SEABREEZE TAKES A LOOK AT TWO OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL ISLAND GETAWAYS THE WORLD HAS TO OFFER LIZARD ISLAND THE GREAT BARRIER REEF HAS TO BE ON EVERY DIVER’S BUCKET LIST, AND THERE ARE FEW BETTER PLACES FROM WHICH TO EXPLORE THIS NATURAL WONDER THAN LIZARD ISLAND. The island was named by Captain Cook, who stopped off there while searching for a navigable passage through the reef. From the island’s highest vantage point, now known as Cook’s Look, he was able to spot a route to safety and, impressed by the sheer number of lizards calling it home, gave it its name. Today the island has had minimal changes from Cook’s days. Its status as a national park means that development is strictly limited, ensuring that its natural beauty will continue to be enjoyed by generations of visitors.
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In fact, while camping is allowed, there is only one hotel on the island, offering everything from standard rooms to luxury villas with private plunge pools. Perhaps the biggest selling point for those looking for privacy is the sheer number of beaches: 24, compared to just 40 suites on the entire island. Whether it’s a lunchtime picnic or a candlelit dinner, the island offers a tropical paradise for those few lucky enough to visit it. But as spectacular as the island’s scenery may be, it’s beneath the clear blue waters that the real treasure lies. And for that, you will need a yacht. Lizard Island is a diver’s paradise, with countless tropical fish and some fringe reefs. A must-see is the world-famous Cod Hole, renowned for the huge but friendly Potato Cod. The resort can also arrange trips to the nearby Great Barrier Reef, allowing you to experience the majesty of this natural wonder in person.
