Australia
Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef
Lizard Island is the perfect luxurious island to remove yourself from the hectic world we live in. The central pavilion, complete with plunge pool, offers stunning 270-degree panoramic views of the Coral Sea, Anchor Bay and Osprey Island, all intensified by the spectacular sunsets. 24 white sandy beaches are exclusively available to guests of the 40 luxurious suites at Lizard Island, and each room has a path leading directly to the beach. Right on the Great Barrier Reef, the diving here is arguably the best in the world. Delve below the surface just off the shore of the Island itself, or into the famous Cod Hole close by for unforgettable diving experiences of a lifetime. For those who’d like to venture out for bigger fish, the island is only a 50-minute boat ride away to the legendary Outer Great Barrier Reef. If you prefer to stay in the open air, the resort has a selection of catamarans and glass bottom paddle skis from which to admire the bright coral gardens, giant clams and schools of tropical fish from above.
Location
Lizard Island is Australia’s northernmost island resort, located 240km north of Cairns and 27km off the coast of North Queensland. Regular flights are available to Cairns from all Australian capital cities, and then from Cairns, you’ll need to take a 60-minute scenic Hinterland flight transfer to Lizard Island.
Your room
You can choose from a selection of fabulous luxury rooms on Lizard Island, all equipped with a Bose sound system, a CD player and iPod connectivity. Anchor bay rooms are found in the heart of lush tropical gardens and are within easy reach of Anchor Bay and the beach. Each Anchor bay room has a private balcony with a hammock to laze in the afternoon. Sunset Point Villas are set high up on Sunset Ridge giving the best views. Surrounded by eucalyptus bushland, the scents will instantly calm you and set you in the mood for the perfect rest. These villas are very private and have easy access to a string of private beaches. Anchor Bay Suites all have stunning sea views and pathways leading directly to the beach. The spacious, open plan design helps you relax and really enjoy your room, and the large verandah with daybed is one of the many comforts. Seamlessly blending indoors and out in an elegant manner, you can expect privacy and calm as well as direct access to the glorious beaches and turquoise water. Perfect.
Why we like it
We love that the small touches have been thought about on Lizard Island, and the service is the perfect balance of subtle and effective. Discover secluded beaches by foot or motorized dinghy or experience tailor-made dining. You can arrange to meet with the chef to discuss a five-course tasting menu with a wine selection to match. If the restaurant is more your thing, you’ll never be lost for inspiration as the menu at Ospreys restaurant changes daily depending on the catch of the day. And last but certainly not least, the Azure spa offers a wide range of massages and facials to add the perfect finishing touch to your relaxing vacation.