Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort
Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia
Lady Elliot Island is a coral cay at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef. It is located within a highly protected "Green Zone" that provides sanctuary for more than 1,200 marine species, including an abundance of manta rays, turtles and healthy corals. The island is home of the second-highest diversity of seabirds on the barrier reef. This low-key, family-run ecolodge is the island's only accommodation, licensed to operate with the Marine Park and designed to have minimal impact on a fragile ecosystem. Outstanding snorkeling is available directly from the beach, with additional snorkeling offered on boat excursions farther afield. Twenty different dive sites surround the island, and certified guests may choose a guided dive for an extra fee.
Rooms are simple but comfortable, just steps from the beach, with en suite bathroom, private balcony with lagoon view, a mini fridge, microwave and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Meals, which often feature fresh seafood, are served in the Beachfront Dining Room, while the Lagoon Bar offers cocktails, spirits and Australian and international beer and wine. So guests can truly connect with nature, there are no telephones, televisions or radios in the rooms. Limited Wi-Fi access is available for purchase at a central hotspot point. Enjoy a selection of books, movies and games in the Manta Lounge, and visit the Reef Education Center to learn about the flora, fauna, marine life and history of Lady Elliot Island and the Great Barrier Reef via informative wall graphics, fact sheets and educational videos. Recreation activities in addition to snorkeling and nature exploration include beach volleyball, table tennis, a pool table, and a saltwater swimming pool.
Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort has been a conservation leader in the Great Barrier Reef region since it opened in 1985. Under the stewardship of its passionate custodians, the resort has earned Australia's Advanced Ecotourism Certification, Climate Action Leader Certification and Green Travel Leader status from Ecotourism Australia, as well as numerous other state and national tourism awards including the Steve Irwin Award for Ecotourism and TripAdvisor GreenLeader status for its low-impact operations and commitment to sustainability including reducing carbon emissions, water use and waste; protecting and improving the island’s biodiversity in partnership with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and private industry; and inspiring its guests and the surrounding community to join in its mission to protect the Great Barrier Reef for future generations.