Lady Elliot Island is located in Queensland, Australia and is one of the southernmost islands of the Great Barrier Reef. Due to its unique geographical location and ocean currents, Lady Elliot Island is not only home to the majority of tropical coral reef species but also attracts other marine life that follows seasonal currents.
Only a maximum of 150 guests and 100 visitors are allowed on the island each day!
Things to do on Lady Elliot Island
The entire island and its surrounding waters are a natural conservation area, so the activities on the island mainly revolve around diving. There is only a simple airstrip, one resort, and a lighthouse on the island.
Snorkelling, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat tours, swimming at the calm beach, and there is a dive centre. The prices are reasonable!
The rest of the island has preserved its original natural environment!
What is Lady Elliot Island famous for?
The coral reefs surrounding the island are located in a highly protected “green zone” and serve as the home to over 1200 species of marine life. It is renowned for its diverse batfish, sea turtles, amazing marine creatures, and undamaged coral reefs!
Lady Elliot Island is also home to nine species of manta rays, earning it the additional name “The Home of the Manta Ray”. Every year, it attracts divers and enthusiastic ocean lovers who come here to experience the wonders and marvels of marine conservation up close!
From November to March each year, batches of sea turtles mate and come ashore to lay eggs in the waters near the island. From June to October, large numbers of humpback whales migrate to the area and stay in the nearby shallow waters. Additionally, the island is also a gathering place for Manta Rays throughout the year.
Getting to Lady Elliot Island
The only means of transportation to the island is the resort’s small aircraft, departing from several different cities in Queensland.
Staying on Lady Elliot Island
The accommodation on the island may not be luxurious, but it is definitely clean. The three meals provided are varied, with flavours better than most five-star hotels and portion sizes are sufficient. After all, besides eating and sleeping, most of the time is spent in the water!
Dining options
There is only one restaurant on the island. I purchased a package from the official website, which includes breakfast and dinner. Lunch can be ordered at the restaurant or you can choose the buffet option for an additional cost. The prices are reasonable, and the food is relatively healthy!
Getting around
The island is primarily explored on foot, and the longest road on the island is the runway for the planes.
How to book your trip
Simply search “Lady Elliot” on Google and book directly through their official website.
Additional tips
There is almost no internet on the island, and you will need to purchase data. Even if you buy data, it is only available near the restaurant. So, be cautious if you heavily rely on your mobile phone!