Lizard Island Resort

To the Dingaal aboriginal people, Lizard Island was thought to be a sacred place, one that had been created in the Aboriginal Dreamtime and used for Indigenous ceremonies and initiations. If you’re dreaming of getting away from it all, there are few better places. Situated on the Great Barrier Reef nearly 17 miles off the coast of Queensland, and ringed with reefs and 24 powdery-white beaches, the all-inclusive property is accessible by charter flight from Cairns. The 40 stylish suites and villas are the only accommodations on the island (which is also a protected national park). Rooms feature neutral tones and beachy décor. Days include long island walks and hikes, tennis, the excellent day spa and an array of reef activities, such as scuba diving and snorkeling, fishing and boating excursions and research station tours. Prime access to the world’s most diverse marine life has its advantages. With no cell phone service on the island, it’s the ultimate spot for unplugging.

Anyone who’s ever dreamed of being stranded on an idyllic island will fall for Lizard Island Resort. Considered one of the most beautiful places on earth, the secluded, all-inclusive resort is the sole lodging on the island—a protected national park—featuring five-star accommodation in 40 suites and villas. Surrounded by natural beauty that soothes the soul, Lizard Island Resort achieves a rustic elegance despite its remoteness. Refurbished by designer Hector Guthrie, each suite is carefully curated with cheery neutral tones and décor that conjures a breezy beach vibe. The beachfront Anchor Bay Suites invoke romance, with sliding glass doors that lead to a sheltered veranda with a double daybed—perfect for lounging while watching the sun melt into the ocean. A sandy pathway leads to a stretch of powdery white beach and cerulean sea, both just steps away from the door of the suite. Those craving the pinnacle of luxury, however, should book the resort’s new villa, a two-bedroom suite with a butler’s kitchen, private eight-meter plunge pool and expansive deck perched high above the Coral Sea. The panoramic vistas are gobsmacking.

The excellent day spa offers blissful treatments and many activities are available. Guests can head to the tennis courts, swimming pool, fitness center or beach club that can arrange reef activities and fishing excursions. The menu at the open-air Salt Water Restaurant features modern cuisine that combines Australian, Mediterranean and Asian flavors, as well as superb Australian and New Zealand wine pairings. Those looking for a special dining experience can indulge in a sunset dinner created by executive chef Mark Janson. The seven-course menu complete with wine pairings is served on the sand and illuminated by tiki torches. A gourmet picnic on a private beach featuring delicacies such as sushi, charcuterie boards and homemade pastries can also be arranged.

But the best part? Lizard Island is a prime location for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and has become a hub for reef research. Resort guests don’t have to travel far to see coral, fish and giant clams, but instead can simply snorkel from the beach in front of the lodge, where there are oodles of coral reef and marine life to explore. For those seeking to explore further, the resort offers half- and full-day excursions to the magnificent inner and outer reef diving sites, including the world famous Cod Hole, renowned for its huge, but friendly, Potato Cod.

Note: While guest pampering is paramount, remember that Lizard Island Resort is on a far-flung tropical island and some mainland offerings (such as WiFi) may be limited.

— Lisa Jackson