There are few sights as awe-inspiring as the Great Barrier Reef, in the Coral Sea off the coast of Australia.
The 300,000 square kilometer Reef is a marvel of nature, an architectural feat designed and constructed by living organisms.
Billions of tiny coral polyps combine to create the Reef, which is home to an incredible diversity of marine life.
One of the "Seven Natural Wonders of the World," the Great Barrier Reef is not only a natural phenomenon, it is an integral piece of the culture and peoples of Australia.
The Great Barrier Reef, which is so immense that it can be seen from space, actually contains over 3,000 separate coral systems, and is home to a wealth of plant and animal life.
There are 400 species of coral, 1,500 species of fish, 215 species of birds, 30 species of dolphins, porpoises, and whales, and countless other inhabitants that make the Reef a vital ecosystem.
Gorgeous islands dot the Reef and endangered sea life finds a refuge in the breathtaking waters.
It is no wonder that over two million people visit the Great Barrier Reef each year.
Those wishing to experience the grandeur of the Great Barrier Reef in luxury and style should consider the islands of Hayman, Orpheus, Bedarra, Peppers Palm Bay, Lizard, and Green Island, each of which has its own treasures to reveal.
You will find impossibly blue water, gorgeous beaches, refreshing swimming pools, sailing, windsurfing, spas, restaurants, and luxurious accommodations that allow you to enjoy the unique sights, sounds, and smells of this paradise in an intimate way.
The resorts of the Great Barrier Reef must walk a fine line between satisfying the needs of guests and protecting the beauty and life of the Reef.
The best accommodations respect the natural beauty around them and encourage guests to tread lightly while indulging in the wonder of this incomparable area and magnificent ecosystem.
You will find yourself in a rarefied world that promises exclusivity, deluxe accommodations, concierge, laundry, and valet services, outstanding cuisine, and of course, some of the most dazzling scenery in the world.
Enjoy stunning views, the feeling of fine, silky sand beneath your feet, and the warm Australian sun on your skin.
Find the peace that comes with being in the midst of one of nature's best offerings and having the privacy to savor each breathtaking detail.
The Great Barrier Reef is a dream destination, and you will not want to wake up from this tropical fantasy.