Stephanie Vermillion highlights for Travel + Leisure the 20 best scuba diving destinations in the world including Lizard Island and Lord Howe Island in Australia.
Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland (overnight at Lizard Island Resort)
“Few dive spots fascinate the world like the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system. One of the best ways to experience it: Lizard Island, a luxe 40-suite escape with a PADI dive shop onsite. This getaway, set on the reef’s northern stretch, sees minke whales in July, humpbacks in August and September, and gargantuan cod that can reach up to six feet in length at the nearby Cod Hole dive site. Look for other favorites like nurse sharks, turtles, and clams, too.
Lizard Island invites marine biologists on many scuba outings to teach guests about the wildlife. The Australian Museum runs a Great Barrier Reef research station on the island, too”.
Lord Howe Island, New South Wales (overnight at Capella Lodge)
“Roughly 500 miles northeast of Sydney lies a treasure trove of radiant reefs. The location, Lord Howe Island, welcomes jet-setters to the world’s southernmost tropical coral reef and the planet’s largest sea stack, known as Ball’s Pyramid. It’s the only place in Australia where you can spot the six-foot Galapagos whaler shark; other potential sightings include catfish, angelfish, and hundreds of other fish species. Lodging here is limited, with only 400 beds available for visitors. To scuba, try PADI outfitter Dive Lord Howe.”
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