Lizard Island

Secluded, soulful, and surrounded by nothing but reef and sea — Lizard Island Resort feels like the edge of the world in the best possible way. Days begin with golden light spilling over the horizon and end with barefoot dinners under star-strewn skies. As the northernmost resort on the Great Barrier Reef, it offers rare access to one of the planet’s most extraordinary ecosystems — 24 white-sand beaches and coral gardens teeming with life, just footsteps from your villa.

This is luxury in the Australian sense: refined but unpretentious, immersed in nature, and designed for the kind of slow, meaningful travel that lingers long after you’ve left. A proud member of Relais & Châteaux, the resort offers personalised service, contemporary Australian cuisine with a hyper-local focus, and beautifully pared-back design. Expect ultra-fresh seafood, tropical produce, and sunset aperitifs with reef views.

Days here are shaped by the sea — with glass-bottom boat tours, guided snorkelling, and world-class diving at iconic sites like the Cod Hole. Guests can explore vibrant coral walls, drift alongside giant clams and reef sharks, or head out by private boat to discover hidden snorkelling spots and remote sand cays.

Perfect for honeymooners, milestone escapes or anyone craving real disconnection, Lizard Island Resort is deeply personal, wildly beautiful, and effortlessly restorative.

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Location

Lizard Island Resort, Great Barrier Reef

Lizard Island Resort is as remote as it is remarkable — set within a protected national park on the northernmost tip of the Great Barrier Reef. Accessible only by a scenic one-hour flight from Cairns, the journey itself sets the tone: turquoise waters, untouched islands, and reef systems stretching as far as the eye can see. Once you arrive, it’s all about immersion. With no day-trippers or outside visitors, the island feels like your own private sanctuary — ideal for those seeking privacy, nature, and direct access to one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders.

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With just 40 rooms and villas, Lizard Island Resort keeps things deliberately low-key and personal. Interiors are light-filled and contemporary, designed to blend with the surrounding landscape — think timber finishes, soft coastal tones and expansive decks that open onto the sea or the sand. Most suites offer direct beach access or panoramic reef views, while all include thoughtful touches like in-room dining, curated minibars, and daybeds made for mid-afternoon lounging.

For a more elevated experience, The House and The Cottage — collectively known as The Estate — offer the ultimate in barefoot luxury. Perched on a private headland, The House is a striking three-bedroom residence with floor-to-ceiling glass, an infinity-edge pool, and sweeping views over the reef. Expect a private host, chef and sommelier, menus tailored to your tastes, and exclusive use of a twin-engine RIB for exploring the island’s hidden beaches.

Private yoga sessions, in-villa spa treatments, and guided hikes with a resident naturalist add to the rare sense of escape. This is a place where luxury feels quietly considered — never overdone.

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Questions

Check-Out: 11 AM Check-In: 3 PM.

Lizard Island Resort is best suited to older children and teens due to its remote location and focus on relaxation, nature and marine activities. The Cottage, which forms part of The Estate, can be an ideal option for families travelling together.

Stays are all-inclusive, covering gourmet meals, selected wines and spirits, non-motorised water sports (snorkelling gear, paddleboards, kayaks), access to reef excursions, and use of private beaches.

Additional experiences like diving, fishing, spa treatments and yacht charters are available at an extra cost. Your Swords Travel Associate can help arrange everything to suit your parties taste. 

Yes — the resort offers diving for all levels, including introductory courses and guided dives at world-class sites like the Cod Hole. Snorkelling is equally rewarding, with vibrant coral just off the beach.

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