Welcome from Peter Gash, Island Custodian

"What an amazing few months it's been on Lady Elliot Island! We've been treated to stunning manta rays, humpback whales, and even a rare sighting of the elusive Pink Manta Ray! With turtle season just around the corner, the island is buzzing with excitement. There's still time to secure a room for December and January - don't miss out on your next turtle adventure! A big shout out to our fantastic team who always go the extra mile to make your stay unforgettable. Thank you to all our guests and supporters. We can't wait to see you soon!" 

We're thrilled to announce that as an entrant to the Queensland Tourism Awards, we're eligible for the RACQ People's Choice Award!

Now, we need your help!

If you've ever experienced the magic of Lady Elliot Island, we'd love your support. Cast your vote for People's Choice 'Experiences & Services'

Everyone who votes goes into the draw for a chance to win a $1000 or one of three $500 RACQ Travel vouchers

T's & C's apply

20 Years of Marine Park Conservation 

We’re thrilled to celebrate 20 years since Lady Elliot Island was declared a Green Zone by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority in 2004! This milestone marks two decades of dedicated conservation efforts that have helped our marine life and ecosystems thrive. By prohibiting fishing, the Green Zone has provided a safe haven for countless species, allowing coral and marine biodiversity to flourish. Visitors can still enjoy incredible activities like snorkeling and diving, experiencing the vibrant underwater world while contributing to its protection. Thanks to this important protection, our reefs have become more resilient, bouncing back faster from challenges like coral bleaching, storms, and other environmental pressures. The Green Zone status has shown just how impactful conservation measures can be in preserving the beauty and health of the Great Barrier Reef. Here’s to 20 years of safeguarding this special place and many more to come!

People of the Reef: 

Jim Buck

Jim Buck and his wife Annie have spent decades volunteering on the Great Barrier Reef, monitoring turtles and restoring Lady Musgrave and Lady Elliot Islands. Their journey began in 1987 when they started helping monitor turtle populations. In 2014, they expanded their efforts to Lady Elliot Island, managing the invasive weeds and restoring native vegetation. Their work alongside our Revegetation Team and dedicated volunteers has increased turtle nesting habitats and restored vital ecosystems for seabirds and marine life. Volunteers play a key role in these efforts and Jim emphasises how experiencing the Reef can profoundly change your life. To read more on Jim Buck, visit the Great Barrier Reef Foundation profile piece below.

Hervey Bay Whale Festival 

The Hervey Bay Whale Festival was a whale of a time! This fun-filled event celebrated the annual humpback whale migration and showcased Hervey Bay as a top spot for whale watching. We were thrilled to be part of the action with our very own Master Reef Guides - Jessica, Mary and Naz who shared fascinating stories and insider knowledge about the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. 

Manta Madness

Wow, what an unforgettable manta ray season it's been! From May to August, Lady Elliot Island was buzzing with excitement as snorkellers and scuba divers got up close and personal with these majestic manta rays. While the peak season has come to an end, the exciting news is that manta rays can still be spotted year-round on the island! For the ultimate manta ray encounter, be sure to give them plenty of space and follow our eco-guidelines.