Sara Tendulkar, daughter of cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, recently captivated social media with her vacation photoshoot. The choice of location for her shoot was no place but the iconic Lizard Island of Australia. A pristine oasis in the centre of the Great Barrier Reef, Lizard Island is an unspoiled gateway to nature. This isolated island off the northern coast of Queensland is known to have stood up to the taste mark of those who enjoy luxury, the outdoors and adventure. It's a site where the magical sea world shakes hands with seclusion. Surrounded by turquoise waters, colourful coral reefs and sandy beaches, Lizard Island awaits both serenity seekers and adventure enthusiasts. Let us find out all about the place before we embark on this journey full of peace and adventure, top-notch attractions and a plethora of marine life.
The name “Lizard Island” is famously credited to a certain British explorer, Captain James Cook, who made such nomenclature in 1770, setting out to map the eastern coast of Australia. It was the profuse population of monitor lizards in the area that directed the captain in his inspiration. On the other hand, Lizard Island is sacred to the native Dingaal people. Traditionally used as a ceremonial site, Jiigurru is steeped in Dreamtime stories. To this day, the island remains a site of historical and cultural intrigue on various accounts ranging from European exploration to Aboriginal heritage.
With 24 white sand beaches and an opulent resort, Lizard Island is a part of a 1,013-hectare national park. The Great Barrier Reef's northernmost resort provides unparalleled access to the reef’s wonders, such as the well-known Cod Hole, where divers can see enormous potato cod in their native environment. The island’s ecological fabric encapsulates pandanus swamps, eucalypt woodlands, and granite outcrops in addition to its marine attractions. It is a divers and snorkeller’s paradise because of the abundance of diverse marine life in the surrounding waters.
Named for Mary Watson, a pioneer who lived on the island in the late 19th century, Watson's Bay is one of the most well-known attractions on the island. Kayaking and paddleboarding are ideal in this calm bay. With its pristine waters, Blue Lagoon provides unmatched chances for snorkelling and marine life observation. For those interested in history, touring the ruins of Mary Watson's cottage offers a window into the island's early history.
Visitors who hike to Cook's Look, the island's highest point, are rewarded with expansive views of the Coral Sea and the reef. Captain Cook used this viewpoint to survey the surrounding waters in order to determine whether it would be safe to pass through the reef.
In Lizard Island, divers and snorkellers can revel with vibrant coral reefs, with Cod Hole being a particularly noteworthy spot. For a less immersive yet equally captivating experience, glass-bottom boat tours provide a unique view of the reef's marine life. Fishing is another popular activity is including everything from game fishing for marlin to light tackle and saltwater fly-fishing. In addition, the beaches set the perfect mood and set-up to unwind, entailing reading, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the stunning surroundings.
For further satisfying the exploratory itch, stargazing sessions reveal the celestial wonders of the southern hemisphere, while guided tours offer insights into the island's unique flora and fauna. Additionally, those interested in marine conservation and research initiatives should visit the Lizard Island Research Station.
At Lizard Island Resort, fresh, locally sourced ingredients are the main focus of superb dining experience. You will find an extensive wine list complements the resort's award-winning menu, combining Australian and international cuisine. Tropical flavours are frequently incorporated into signature dishes, such as freshly caught seafood combined with unusual fruits and herbs.
For those looking for a more private dining experience, private beach picnics are a popular choice. Gourmet hampers are available to visitors as they take in the beautiful surroundings of the island. Savour the resort's degustation menu and fine wines while watching the stars for a genuinely one-of-a-kind experience.
Getting to Lizard Island is an adventure in itself. From Cairns, the island is reachable by a picturesque one-hour flight that provides stunning views of the Great Barrier Reef from above.
The dry season (May to October) is the ideal time of year to visit Lizard Island. The weather is nice and warm during this time, with little rain and good visibility for activities that take place underwater. The island's wet season, which lasts from November to April, is marked by warmer temperatures and sporadic tropical storms.