For those who have been to the QLD islands and Great Barrier Reef in the last few years - please give me input?

I really liked Heron Island but it was very expensive, i wouldnt pay for a trip there again despite the fact that the snorkelling and diving were excellent, the reef is right on the beach.

Whitsunday islands (http://www.gondwananet.com/australia-facts-queensl... depending on which one you choose, can be more affordable and often have last minute bargains. Whitsundays are great, however along with Dunk and many other islands, they are not real coral islands like Heron.

If you want to experience coral reef, i would go further north, like Green and Lizard Islands outside Cairns, however they are fairly expensive too. One island outside Cairns that was relatively cheap to do is Fitzroy Island. You can hire the gear from the resort reception (even if you are only on a day trip), and you can enjoy coral reef there while snorkelling. They also have diving courses.

Dolphins, my personal experience is that they are easier to spot down south, particularly around Brisbane and Bribie Island. Not sure whether it is true or just my experience.

Hi,

Actually very few islands on the Great Barrier Reef. They would include Heron, Lady Elliot and Lizard Island.

Others may have fringing, or inner reefs, but not the actually barrier reef.

Some islands like Dunk and Hamilton have day trips to the Great Barrier Reef though.

Hamilton island was no where near the oil spill which occured much closer to Brisbane..

Hello i was in Australia two years ago in the month of july! It was beautiful and i absolutely loved it. The Whitsunday Islands were my favorite part. The sand is like powdered sugar and water is literally crystal clear. It was warm and the boat tour i went on had wet suits and snorkeling gear and guides available on the ship. So we snorkeled just off the coast of the island. It was gorgeous. Long Island was also beautiful. I can't wait to return someday!

hope this helped!