An insider's guide to Lizard Island and Lizard Island Resort

Discover the essentials of Lizard Island with an expert guide from someone who’s experienced it firsthand.

If only one could measure a good time on Lizard Island by how much sand has been collected in your cossies. Or how many hours you’ve spent lolling on your day bed before the sun seeps over the horizon. It’s fitting that Lizard Island is named after the Whitsunday island’s best-known resident: the yellow-spotted monitor lizard. You can spend much of the late afternoon flat out like a lizard drinking at a gin tasting.

And while your skin won’t be as scaly as this suborder of reptiles after a visit to Essentia Day Spa , you can certainly change the colour of your kaftan to better blend in, like a chameleon, with your surrounds. Lizard Island was named by Captain James Cook in 1770 because of its many monitor lizards. But to the Traditional Owners of the lands, seas and skies of the region, the Dingaal and Ngurrumungu peoples, the island is known as Dyiigurra, and it represents a sacred place.

Location

the Lizard Island Resort from above — The resort is totally secluded, just 28 kilometres off the Queensland coastline. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Lizard Island is in the northernmost part of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, Australia. It’s about 240 kilometres north of Cairns and about 28 kilometres off the Queensland coastline. The island is accessible by charter flights from the East Air Terminal at Cairns Airport and takes about an hour to get there. From above, the sun colours the frayed edges of the Ribbon Reefs, which appear like vibrant threads in an azure embroidery. It also paints its contours, gilding its neatly stacked granite boulders and rows of gums. Lizard Island is 1624 kilometres northwest of Brisbane and home to 1013 hectares of national park. It’s also a part of the larger stingray-like formation of islands that makes up the Lizard Island Group. If you have a boat that is larger than seven metres you can pull up in designated reef anchorage areas like Watsons Bay and Blue Lagoon. And if you have your own plane (many guests do) you can use the lavish resort’s private airstrip.

Style and character

a beachfront suite at Lizard Island Resort — The sea-view suites spill onto the manicured gardens. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Lizard Island Resort is one of three Luxury Lodges of Australia properties in Tropical North Queensland. And despite the fact it’s one of the most luxe resorts on the Great Barrier Reef, it retains its laidback charm. The villas have an old Queenslander aesthetic, which is timeless, and a luxury element that emphasises light-filled spaces and a casual coastal chic. Although there are no tins of empty paint lying around, it’s likely the villas are all painted in Surf Mist, a light, neutral colour that complements the mix of contemporary natural textiles, earthy rattan light fittings and textured throws.

Lizard Island Resort was refurbished in 2015 after being damaged by cyclones, and Melbourne-based designers Hecker Guthrie turned to nature for ideas, forms and materials. The villas and restaurants are timeless thanks to the fact the indoors and outdoors appear to merge. Hecker Guthrie revels in texture and detail and employs wood and fabric to define the aesthetic of the living environment. But the greatest luxury of all is the location of the resort and exclusivity of access to the island’s diverse landscape.

Rooms

a man looking out the window of his suite at Lizard Island Resort — The luxury Lizard Island accommodation offers bright and breezy beachfront rooms. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

There are only 40 rooms, suites and villas scattered around the 1000-hectare resort, with stone pathways that funnel guests through the greenery to the resort’s bar, restaurant, pool and spa. The luxury Lizard Island accommodation includes: Oceanview Villas, which are perched like eyries overlooking Sunset Bay; Gardenview Suites and Rooms, tucked away in tropical gardens; Beachfront Suites situated along the arc of Anchor Bay; and Oceanview Plunge Pool Villas where you can float like a starfish in your private plunge pool. Premium Leif products are used in the bathrooms and the rooms and suites are bright and breezy with wide-angle views of the sea or garden. I’m staying in an Oceanview Villa, which is a standalone cabin framed by palm trees bent into the wind.

Beach towels and beach bags are provided for those who want to flipper straight into the sea. A hairdryer is available in each room, but to be honest, the Lizard Island look is more #beachhairdontcare. There’s also an iron and an ironing board so you can iron your linen outfit ahead of the evening meal. To ensure your comfort, the resort offers a pillow menu that includes a range of hypoallergenic microfibre pillows that range from squishy to firm.

Facilities

the 8-metre private plunge pool in The Villa, Lizard Island Resort — Enjoy early morning dips at the 8-metre private plunge pool at The Villa. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

On the entertainment front, the rooms have LCD Televisions and Bluetooth speakers so you can crank your Island Vibes playlist. Although there is air con, the whirring of a ceiling fan will heighten that sense of connection to the tropics. Workaholics will appreciate the office desk and stationery. While those in holiday mode will likely work their way through the fully stocked mini bar and take advantage of the tea and coffee-making facilities. There’s complimentary wi-fi, but the best views are of sea and sky. Leave your phone in the room and take one of the complimentary motorised dinghies to explore the coral reef gardens that fringe the island.

a woman having a facial treatment at Essentia Spa, Lizard Island Resort — Get pampered with rejuvenating facial and body treatments on-site. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Lizard Island has an Essentia Spa onsite, which is designed around the concept of sodashi, a Sanskrit word for ‘wholeness, purity and radiance’. Choose between a diverse menu of day treatments such as the Pure Radiance Facial, Detoxifying Marine Body Wrap and Signature Massage. The resort has a swimming pool, tennis court, gym and tour desk. There’s also a communal lounge and laundry.

Food and drink

a close-up shot of food on a plate, Lizard Island Resort — The menu is inspired by the ocean’s bounty and seasonal produce from the mainland. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

A stay on Lizard Island is all-inclusive with menus that draw inspiration from the tropical environment . Meals are enjoyed in the open-air Salt Water restaurant, an indoor-outdoor space where diners welcome the gentle caress of a sea breeze. The menu changes daily and is inspired by the ocean’s bounty and seasonal produce sourced from the mainland. Champagne, beer and spirits are on offer throughout your stay, and guests are invited to take part in a Wolf Lane Tropical Gin Tasting Masterclass at the Driftwood Bar & Wine Cellar. Breakfast is a la carte at the exclusive island retreat, and there are signature experiences such as seven-course Beachside Degustation Dining with matching wines and a menu tailor-made by the executive chef to suit the occasion. Personalised Beach Picnics are also popular, as guests can motor to a private beach via dinghy. The Marlin Bar is at the end of the boardwalk and is a public bar that has welcomed guests since 1975. Expect everyone from visiting celebrities to salty sea dogs to make cameos at the bar, which is open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 5pm.

Things to do

stand-up paddleboarding at Lizard Island — Rent a stand-up paddleboard or kayak to explore the island’s pristine waters. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Visitors to Lizard Island tend to be quite active as there are a lot of things to see and do. Cook’s Look offers one of the best vantage points of the island. Hike here in the cool of the day at dusk, when the colour in the sky changes from bands of pink to blue.  A comprehensive guide to Lizard Island will always include a trip to the famous Cod Hole, famous for its resident potato cods and brightly coloured tropical fish. Visitors can also snorkel straight off the sand.  The Australian Museum has a Marine Research Station on the island where many visitors choose to volunteer. Help build the Australasian Fishes station’s image library used to identify fish or record frog calls to help the scientists learn more about what is happening to Australia’s frogs.

an aerial view of Lizard Island Resort — This exclusive island retreat is tucked into a secluded part of the Great Barrier Reef. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Lizard Island is all about experiential luxury, with everything a short amble away. The beaches are secluded and seductive. Flipper straight off the beach at Watsons Bay to find giant clams and sea turtles in the Clam Gardens, an exclusive experience that is one of Lizard Island’s greatest draws. Lizard Island is also known the world over for its game fishing, something the island specialises in. The nearby Ribbon Reefs are considered some of the best in the world for big game fishing. Fish all day and come back to your luxury villa to enjoy oysters and Champagne on beaches that are like a scene stolen from a postcard.

Is Lizard Island Resort family-friendly?

guests participating in a yoga session on the beach — Join morning yoga sessions on the beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Lizard Island welcomes children aged 10 and over, which is the perfect age to take advantage of all of the island activities. Extended families often book out The House, an architecturally designed home with an adjoining cottage that sleeps eight.

Access for guests with disabilities?

The resort offers some accessibility with wheelchair-friendly paths leading to the restaurant and villas, but the island’s national park has limitations for those with mobility issues. Contact Lizard Island for more details.

Discover the Great Barrier Reef’s first underwater hotel

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach — Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter — Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa — Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter — Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter — Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.

An insider’s guide to Lizard Island and Lizard Island Resort