During his epic voyage of 1770, Captain James Cook climbed the peak on Lizard Island to chart a course out to sea through the maze of reefs which confronted him. Today Lizard Island offers an escape of a different kind. A unique holiday on the Great Barrier Reef's northern most island resort.
Lizard Island has scooped three major awards at the prestigious USA Travel and Leisure Magazine's 'World's Best Awards' 2003/2004.
If you're looking for something out of the ordinary, then Lizard Island should be top of the list. This is without question, one of Australia's premier resorts. Being right on the Great Barrier Reef is rare enough, but Lizard Island offers the full spectrum - both the inner and outer Reef experiences.
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One of Australia‘s natural treasures... |

Here you can snorkel off a secluded beach to discover a garden of giant clams, many a metre long and some reputed to be over 120 years old. And there are 23 more soft, powdery white beaches just waiting to be explored. Lizard Island is renowned for its diving. At the world famous 'Cod Hole', you'll come face to face with a massive yet curious Potato Cod swimming right up to inspect you with child-like curiosity.
Whilst the fish may not respect your privacy, we certainly will. In fact, we'll pack a picnic lunch for two and guide you to a 'private beach' to enjoy this magic location undisturbed.
There are many magnificent walks, and on at least one you can expect to glimpse a Monitor, the lizard after which the island was named. Healthy appetites are then rewarded with superb dining - fresh local produce prepared with European and Asian influence.
You'll find all meals and most activities are included in the tariff and although remote, access is easy.
| Lizard Island Accommodation - The Pavilion |
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Extensively refurbished mid 2003, a new expansive decking area incorporates a private plunge pool, sunlounges and a daybed area, inviting guests to relax and take in the stunning views. Leaving the balcony to stroll down a private path, guests will discover another secluded area where chairs and a table have been perfectly positioned to make the most of sea breezes and gorgeous views.
Inside, the Pavilion offers every comfort. Bollinger and a deluxe fruit bowl greet guests on arrival. A laptop computer for downloading and sending emails and high powered binoculars are among some of the special features.
...More Images Sunset Point Villas are set high on Sunset Ridge amongst native eucalyptus bushland. Providing filtered sea views over Anchor Bay or Sunset Beach, these Villas offer privacy and easy access to a string of secluded beaches. Each Villa has a private deck with comfortable Australian timber squatter chairs and a hammock. Inside, the mix of colours and textures creates a calm retreat with the surrounding coastal bushland the inspiration for the understated and elegant design.
Anchor Bay Suite
Set in a broad sweeping arc along Anchor Bay, with easy access to the main Lodge, Anchor Bay Suites offer captivating sea views and each has a pathway leading directly to the beach. Seamlessly blending indoors and out in an elegant and spacious open plan design, a large verandah with daybed is one of the many designer comforts.
Anchor Bay Rooms
Located in a tropical garden setting with easy access to Anchor Bay and the beach, Anchor Bay Rooms have a private balcony with hammock. Interiors are compact but comfortable. Family Rooms offer two separate sleeping areas.
Activities
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Other Activities (charges apply)
| Diving and snorkelling trips to the inner or outer Reef |
| Diving tuition - limited |
| Night diving |
| Full or half day private game fishing on MV Coocoran (Black Marlin season is from September to November) |
| Pavilion Spa treatments |
| Research station tours |
| Lizard Island Dive & Fishing Charters |
Osprey's Restaurant
This open verandah restaurant overlooks the beach and ocean in an intimate setting for a la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner. Lizard cuisine showcases the finest local produce with emphasis on local seafood, lush tropical fruits, premium product and the diversity of cultures that have shaped the Australian food scene. The menu changes daily, while guests are welcome to request special dishes. Gourmet picnic hampers for beachside outings are available on request daily. Please advise of any special dietary needs in advance.
| Azure Spa Treatment |
The essence of Lizard Island is infused in every spa treatment at the Azure Spa. The Island's timeless beauty, its pristine white sands and tranquil clear blue waters are at once the inspiration and foundation of many of its signature treatments. The Azure Spa offers a range of treatments that fuse ancient secrets and essential elements with therapies designed to provide total harmony between health, beauty and nature.
Each therapy is a blend of marine and other natural elements designed to balance the physical and emotional body and refresh the mind and spirit.
We are all instinctively drawn to the sea and this is why we choose to use Phytomer with 100% marine ingredients that allow you to embrace the re-mineralising, balancing and relaxing virtues of the sea.
Lizard Island Climate
Tropical climate, average year-round temperature of approximately 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit).
| JAN | FEB | MAR | APR | MAY | JUN | JUL | AUG | SEP | OCT | NOV | DEC | |
| C° | 32 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 27 | 28 | 30 | 31 | 32 |
| F° | 90 | 88 | 88 | 86 | 80 | 79 | 77 | 80 | 82 | 86 | 88 | 90 |
Regular flights are available from all major Australian capital cities to Lizard Island via Cairns with Qantas and Virgin Blue.
Hinterland Aviation operates the connecting flights between Cairns and Lizard Island, flights take approximately 60 minutes. If you would prefer a transfer to meet your schedule, charter flights can be organised.
Cairns to Lizard 11am, 2pm
Return: 12.30pm, 15.25pm
Rates - Stay 4 pay 3 special
| Room Type | 4 Nights |
| Anchor Bay Room | AUD $5070 |
| Sunset Point Villa | AUD $5970 |
| Anchor Bay Suite | AUD $6820 |
| The Pavillion | AUD $11230 |
* Rates are based on twin share
* Minimum of a 2 night stay
Inclusions:
- Stay 3 nights and receive the 4th night free (maximum 1 free night).
- Upgrade to the next room type (subject to availability at time of check-in).
- All meals.
- Selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Gourmet picnic hampers for beach outings available on request.
- Use of non-motorised water sports and motorised dinghy hire and many island activities.
Stay 4 pay 3 special: Valid for travel 26AUG10-17DEC10: On sale until 12AUG10.
* Return air transfers from Cairns International airport approximately $530 per person
Ultimate Indulgence Package
| Room Type | 4 Nights |
| Anchor Bay Room |
AUD $6340 |
| Sunset Point Villa | AUD $7350 |
| Anchor Bay Suite | AUD $8830 |
| The Pavillion | AUD $13,300 |
Spa treatments are subject to availability and must be pre-booked with the resort prior to arrival.
Children under 12 are not catered for.
My wife and I spent a week here during our honeymoon. It was the best travel experience that we have had. We would take a dinghy to a private beach most days with our prepared picnic baskets and snorkel with the resident turtles. If you get tired of the diving and snorkeling you can hike to the top of Cook's Look which is a very good day hike. The food was terrific and the service was impeccable. We would go back in a heart-beat.