With manta ray season in full swing and visibility as beautiful as we've seen it, there's never been a better time to get in the water at Lady Elliot Island.

Marine Life Highlights

Small-Eyed Stingrays made several appearances early in the month, Leopard Sharks have been spotted gliding through the reef, and Manta Rays have been putting on a show — courting, cleaning, and feeding near the surface. Tawny Nurse Sharks and Eagle Rays have also been seen consistently over the last few days, rounding out an incredible few weeks below the surface.

Whale Season in Full Swing

Both above and below the waterline, it's been a spectacular month for whale encounters. Humpback whales have been heard on dives, spotted from the water, and seen breaching from above — with a few lucky guests and team members treated to whales swimming right past them while snorkelling or diving.

Birds Are Back in Strong Numbers
The island is coming alive with birdlife this month! Noddies have started nesting, and Bridled Terns are back, though they're proving elusive. The best chance to spot them is at dawn as they head out to sea, or at dusk when they return to the island.

Researchers from Leaf to Reef, are here this week tagging newly hatched Red-Tailed Tropicbird chicks, which will help them continue their valuable monitoring work.

Keen bird watchers have also had some exciting sightings, with a Goshawk seen consistently around the island, a Spotted Harrier making an appearance, and Black-faced Cuckoo-shrikes spotted regularly.

We look forward to welcoming you to Lady Elliot Island!

P.S. We have extended the sale our 3-night Turtle Trek Package so be sure to scroll down and book your stay before September 30th 2026.