Heron Island is a coral cay located right on Australia's Great Barrier Reef. This small sand island is an ecotourist's paradise, and one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the world. Our family discovered Heron about ten years ago when traveling in Australia, and it soon became one of our favorite islands in the world. The beaches of Australia comprise the world's largest sea turtle nesting site, and Heron Island is one of the best places to see sea turtles mating, nesting and hatching.
Heron Island is fringed with beautiful powder white sand beaches and extensive coral reefs, and is home to the Heron Island Resort. This small, family-friendly property offers luxurious accommodations with an emphasis on ecotourism, snorkeling and diving. There are no daytrippers on this island, and the beaches and activities are only available to resort guests. Peak sea turtle nesting and hatching periods are December through February. During this period, the resort leads nightly turtle walks and a variety of other activities and children are welcome. Bird life is also extremely active during these times, and numerous Black Noddies and Wedge-tail Shearwaters can be seen laying eggs, nesting and hatching.
Heron Island offers a unique ecotourism experience for families at any time of the year, but particularly during turtle nesting season. For more information about Heron Island Resort, visit their website at: Heron Island or contact Voyages Resorts at travel@voyages.com.au or at 61-2-8296-8010.
