Lady Elliot Island

The old lighthouse still stands on the island, but it is no longer in use. The actual light comes from the unattractive light bulb on a steel tower right next to the original structure. A small cemetery, including the graves of the lighthouse keepers wife and daughter are nearby. The residences used by the light keepers are now converted into staff residences, and are inaccessible to visitors who take notice of the signs, but can be seen from the path, and from the air

If you are fed up with nature, take a look at the solid/diesel power scheme that keeps the place running. The solar panels are by the runway, the diesel generator underneath. The island desalinates its own water for showers and human consumption.

The best snorkelling is between Coral Gardens and the Lighthouse. You can enter the water at one and snorkel to the other. Check the current current direction at the Dive Shop if you want to know which way will be easiest. There are cut-outs of the reef at both locations to allow exit and entry to the water at low tide (high tide is easy off the beach). Don't forget to drop your reef shoes at your exit point. Hundreds of species of tropical fish can be seen, as well as many Green and Hawksbill turtles. Reef Sharks (harmless) and Manta Rays. You can also snorkel in the lagoon 2 hours either side of the high tide.

Scuba diving can be arranged by the Dive Shop if staying on the island, but you can't dive on the day you are flying in or the day you are flying out, so plan accordingly. Other operators run dive trips to the reef from the coastal towns. In addition to beautiful corals, fish and other underwater life, there's also a wreck just outside the Second Reef, west of the island; the Severance, that sunk in 1999.

Trips runs daily, several times if demand requires it. Take your snorkelling equipment to dive off the boat.

Reef walking can be done at low tide in the lagoon. Reef walking shoes are provided.

3PM daily at the fish pool, if you want the fish to come to you.

Birds are top of the food chain at Lady Elliot, and as a result they are there in abundance. Over 100 species can be seen on the island. An umbrella comes in handy.