No, it’s not the latest Hollywood blockbuster – Lizard Island is the northernmost resort in the Great Barrier Reef, a secluded oasis that has everybody wishing for a little extra time off work.
Lizard Island is a popular holiday spot among a range of high-profile individuals, frequented by the likes of Orlando Bloom, Charlize Theron, Madonna, and Susan Sarandon, for its security, seclusion, and prestige. Kate Hudson is also a fan, publicly describing it as “the most romantic place in the world”. It was even exclusively booked out for a Rockefeller wedding and formed a key location in Prince Charles’ Royal Tour in 1966.
Situated an hour’s flight from Cairns, the resort’s competitive advantage is that it isn’t just close to the reef – it’s on it. Guests can simply snorkel on the shores of their many beaches and find themselves exploring everything the third natural wonder of the world has to offer. And with twenty-four private beaches to the mere forty suits and villas, guests are guaranteed an exclusive experience on the beach of their choosing.
For those eager to venture the reef’s more exquisite offerings, access to personal motorised boats is included in each booking so that guests may explore the inner and outer reefs.
Lizard Island was declared a National Park in 1937, and its waters as a Marine Park in 1974. The only other inhabitants of the island are researchers of Cook University, who study the abundant ecosystems of the area, and guests are offered the opportunity to take a tour of their research facility.
The area is home to the most diverse and fascinating marine life, surrounded by schools of tropical fish, manta rays, turtles, and some of the world’s rarest species of coral. Perhaps most exciting is its proximity to the infamous Giant Clam Gardens.
The Giant Clam Gardens feature (you guessed it) giant clams set amongst a spectacular, healthy coral garden – perhaps one of the healthiest parts of the slowly dying reef. Explorers can witness an abundance of angelfish, lionfish, octopus, giant moray eels and more. We suggest visiting in June when the humpback whales can be seen from the shores as they begin their northern migration, and Minke whales have been known to dare a closer interaction with tour vessels. Lucky guests may also catch sight of the frolicsome spinner dolphins surfing on the outer reefs.
Perks included upon booking comprise the unlimited use of paddleboards and glass-bottom sea kayaks, customised snorkelling gear, and gourmet picnic hampers that cater to your personal preferences, for the perfect picnic on an idyllic sandy cove. More traditional dining is, of course, available at Salt Water Restaurant, Driftwood Bar, or Marlin Bar. We, however, recommend indulging in the Sunset Beachside Dining. It has limited availability, with only two pavilions on offer, but it involves a seven-course degustation menu designed in direct consultation with Ryan Locke – previously of Melbourne’s exalted Vue de Monde –, the Island’s Executive Chef.
Spa services are available, and for those wanting the ultimate relaxation experience without missing a beat of the beautiful tropical sunshine, the Hibiscus Massage sees guests taken to an exclusive beach where they are greeted by spa staff and treated to a 60-minute full body massage. Following the pampering, a gourmet hamper and champagne is provided for guests to enjoy at their leisure.
Lizard Island’s prestige is well deserved, as it offers an unforgettable getaway and a perfect opportunity to recharge. However, potential visitors be warned – Wi-Fi is limited and there is absolutely no mobile phone coverage, so it’s an off-the-grid escape that really forces you to commit to your resolution to unplug and unwind.
Prices start at $1,949 for a garden view room and climb from there, but trust us when we use the old adage that it is worth every penny.