Lizard Island is an explorer’s dream…

Lizard Island’s unique location on the Great Barrier Reef places it at the centre of inner and outer reef systems as well as fringing reefs; all forming a critical part of the eco-system that is home to the most diverse, colourful and intriguing marine animal and plant life, meaning all of its wonders are yours to explore straight off the beach or just a short boat trip away.

Guests have the rare privilege of simply stepping off the beach and snorkelling onto parts of the reef- witnessing the wonders of Giant Clam gardens and schools of tropical fish both big and small, manta rays, turtles and coral. Literally straight from the shore or minutes by boat from the inner and outer reef systems with many fringing reefs to stop and explore on the way.

While there’s no best time to visit Lizard Island, here’s a selection of what you can expect to see and experience at any time of the year…

January | This is the amphibious month. Green tree frogs dominate the nocturnal sound scape as they come out to breed. The black flying fox camp sizes are at their largest, providing spectacular flight scenes at dusk around. Monitor lizard activity is also high with tunnels being dug for nesting chambers around the island. Get up close to the marine and plant life in the waters off Anchor Bay in a glass bottom sea kayak.

February | The melaleuca forests are flooded and mangrove swamps are rich with juvenile fish life. Black-naped terns begin nesting and swarming around Osprey Island preying on the summer fish stocks. After a morning snorkel and salty skin, guests can take time out to rejuvenate with massage, water therapy, body scrubs or organic facial treatments at Essentia Day Spa. At day’s end, the constellation of Orion dominates the early night sky.

March | Crested terns begin nesting while pheasant coucal birds changing to their darker plumage. Sacred kingfishers often sighted around the island. Each month the island changes with the migration of birds and animals and the blooming of plants. The resident naturalists know and love every corner of the island and observe each seasonal nuance. A guided tour offers a greater understanding of these treasured natural wonders, history and eco-systems of Lizard Island.

April | Migratory birds such as the lesser golden plover begin to show their breeding plumage before the migration to the northern latitudes and bar shouldered doves start nesting. The Southern Cross constellation rising early in the night sky. The qualified yoga instructor at Lizard Island offers guests the opportunity to stretch in the tranquil surrounds all year round, with each class designed to accomodate all levels of experience and fitness.

May | Green sea turtles can be spotted feeding along the beaches at low tide. Snorkel with the resident green turtles in Casuarina Beach, watch them grazing in the shallows and see Hawaiian triggerfish hiding in their little coral homes. There are a range of stunning reefs to explore – the guides will discuss the best ones to visit with you prior to your excursion. Snorkel equipment and lessons are complimentary and the qualified marine staff will ensure you are properly kitted out. Keep your snorkel gear with you and head out anytime you like. Clear skies and early twilights bring red sunsets over the Pacific. The kapok bush begins to flower and swallowtail butterflies can be sighted fluttering around the lodge.

June | Humpback whales begin their northern migration. Curious minke whales often approach tour vessel for a closer look while playful spinner dolphins may surf the bow wave on the outer reef trips. Clear views from the top of Cooks Lookout – this hike can be guided or self-guided. It covers 4 kilometres and at times is very steep so an early morning start and medium to high fitness and agility is required to safely undertake this hike. Centaurus shines over the meridian at night.

July | Sightings of humpback whales during their migration to warmer waters for calving. Goannas often sighted along tracks warming their bodies in the midday sun. Osprey often sighted around their large, high nests. The beauty and wilderness of Lizard Island National Park are distinctive, and Lizard Island was declared a National Park in 1937, while its surrounding water was declared a Marine Park in 1974. Experience the natural island wonders on a guided interpretive walk or view our marine and terrestrial presentations, scheduled throughout the week, with the resident naturalist.

August | The very sociable white-breasted wood swallows begin breeding. Umbrella trees showing off their brilliant red flowers. Constellation of Scorpio dominates the spring night sky as it chases Orion over the western horizon. Beautiful at any time of year, two private beach pavilions sit on Anchor bay – each commanding spectacular views of the nightly sunsets. Here you can enjoy a 7-course  beachside degustation menu with accompanying wines. Be sure to reserve early as these are one of the most popular dining experiences on the island and book out.

September | The marlin season begins with giant black marlin cruising the outer reef during their breeding season. One of the greatest joys of fishing in and around Lizard Island is the ease of access to some of the world’s greatest fishing spots. On the boat at this time of year, you might get the opportunity for minke and humpback whale sightings. Black flying foxes feed on the mango fruits around the lodge at night. As the water temperatures warm towards 27°C, you’ll see an increase in wildlife activity. The prominent bright yellow flowers of the kapok bush in full bloom. The ‘Teapot’ in Sagittarius shines above at night.

October | Bird watchers can see the lesser golden plovers arrive on the island from Siberia & Alaskan territories. Torres Strait imperial pigeon migrates down from Papua New Guinea to form breeding colonies on the island. Beach stone curlew patrol the beaches acting as decoys for their nests. Black marlin begin their spawning season on the outer reef. Elevate your Lizard Island experience with private vessels and charter boats.

November | Coral spawning occurs once a year, generally around the end of November when corals release an explosion of colour and a show-stopping sign of life on the Great Barrier Reef. Green, loggerhead and hawksbill turtles can be seen grazing on sea grasses along the beaches and pelagic fish species are active around spawning season. Monitor lizards are out and about whilst constructing nesting chambers and the kapok trees are fruiting.

December | Occasional sightings of manta rays around the island occur at this time of year and the water temperature is a warm 29°C. Lizard Island’s guides can drop guests to secluded beaches for picnics or arrange snorkelling or dives on the outer reef as well as unlimited use of non-motorised water sports and motorised dinghies.

Guests can experience Lizard Island on the reef, on land or in the tranquility of the spa year round with guided and self-guided activities include snorkelling, diving, paddle boarding, kayaking, hiking, visits to the Research Centre, tennis under night lights, morning yoga on the beach and indulgent spa treatments.

For further information on the seasonal spectacles of Lizard Island, visit.