Opal Reef: A Jewel of the Great Barrier Reef
Discover the vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life of Opal Reef, a pristine jewel in the Great Barrier Reef near Port Douglas.
Opal Reef, a stunning section of the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Port Douglas, is renowned for its vibrant coral formations, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters. Perfect for snorkeling and diving, it offers an unforgettable underwater experience for all skill levels.
A brief summary to Opal Reef
- Great Barrier Reef, AU
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on a boat trip to Opal Reef.
- Check the weather and tides before your trip to ensure the best possible snorkeling and diving conditions.
- Wear a lycra suit or stinger suit for sun protection and to protect yourself from potential stingers.
- Consider bringing an underwater camera to capture the stunning coral formations and marine life.
- Opt for a guided tour to learn more about the reef's ecosystem and discover hidden treasures.
Getting There
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Boat Tour
The only way to access Opal Reef is by boat tour from Port Douglas. Several reef operators offer full-day snorkeling and diving trips. Typical tours depart from Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina in Port Douglas. The boat trip to Opal Reef takes approximately 90 minutes each way. Tour operators include Wavelength Reef Cruises and Calypso Reef Cruises. Typical costs for a full-day tour range from AUD 240 to AUD 319 per adult, including snorkeling equipment, lunch, and guided tours. Additional costs may include soft drinks and other beverages. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Discover more about Opal Reef
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kulki Lookout
47.8 km
Explore the stunning vistas of Kulki Lookout in the Daintree Rainforest, a breathtaking scenic spot where nature meets tranquility.
Alkira
48.3 km
Discover tranquility and natural beauty at Alkira, a charming guest house in Cape Tribulation, Queensland, surrounded by rainforest and stunning beaches.
PK's Jungle Village
48.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of PK's Jungle Village, your ultimate resort hotel for adventure and relaxation in the heart of Cape Tribulation.
Coconut Beach House
48.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Coconut Beach House in Cape Tribulation, a perfect blend of comfort, nature, and adventure in Queensland, Australia.
Turtle Rock Cafe
48.4 km
Experience the essence of Cape Tribulation at Turtle Rock Cafe, where delicious food meets stunning natural beauty in a welcoming atmosphere.
Safari Lodge and Campground
48.4 km
Discover the wonders of Cape Tribulation at Safari Lodge and Campground, your gateway to the Daintree rainforest and stunning beaches.
WHET Cafe Bar Restaurant
48.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and breathtaking views at WHET Cafe Bar Restaurant in Cape Tribulation, Queensland's stunning paradise.
Mason's Store
48.6 km
Discover Mason's Store in Cape Tribulation - your one-stop grocery shop for fresh produce, local delicacies, and essential supplies in Queensland's tropical paradise.
Masons Café
48.6 km
Discover the best of local flavors at Masons Café in Cape Tribulation, where delicious burgers and aromatic coffee await amidst stunning tropical surroundings.
Cape Trib Farm - Fruit Tasting and Farmstay
48.6 km
Experience the delightful fusion of farmstay charm and tropical fruit tasting at Cape Trib Farm in the heart of Queensland's natural paradise.
Cape Trib Exotic Fruit Farm
48.6 km
Discover the exotic flavors of tropical fruits at Cape Trib Exotic Fruit Farm in Queensland's stunning natural landscape, a paradise for food lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Far North Escapes
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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cape Tribulation with Far North Escapes, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in the Daintree Rainforest and beyond.
The Cassowary Restaurant
48.6 km
Discover the culinary delights of The Cassowary Restaurant in Cape Tribulation, where fresh local ingredients meet breathtaking rainforest views.
Mason's Swimming Hole
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Discover the serenity of Mason's Swimming Hole in Cape Tribulation, a pristine swimming basin surrounded by lush rainforests and vibrant wildlife.
Ferntree Rainforest Hotel
48.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Daintree Rainforest at Ferntree Rainforest Hotel, your gateway to adventure and relaxation in Queensland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Agincourt Reefs
20.7 km
Explore Agincourt Reefs, a pristine underwater paradise in the Great Barrier Reef, filled with vibrant marine life and stunning coral landscapes.
Troppos - Dive site at Norman Reef
25.7 km
Discover the stunning underwater beauty of Troppos at Norman Reef, a premier dive site in the Great Barrier Reef, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Playground Dive Site (Normans Reef, Great Barrier Reef)
26.3 km
Discover the underwater wonders of Playground Dive Site at Norman Reef, a premier diving location in the Great Barrier Reef teeming with marine life.
Quicksilver Pontoon
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Discover the vibrant marine life and stunning coral gardens at Quicksilver Pontoon in Agincourt Reefs, Queensland – a must-visit for every nature enthusiast.
Batt Reef
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Explore Batt Reef, Australia's marine paradise with stunning coral formations and vibrant underwater life, perfect for snorkeling and diving adventures.
Low Island
41.1 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Low Island, a tropical paradise in Queensland, Australia, where adventure meets relaxation amidst the Great Barrier Reef.
Snapper Island National Park
43.8 km
Explore Snapper Island National Park, a serene oasis in Queensland, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers with pristine beaches and vibrant wildlife.
Michaelmas Cay
45.0 km
Explore the tranquil paradise of Michaelmas Cay, where vibrant marine life meets breathtaking landscapes in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
Shipwreck Bay
45.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Shipwreck Bay, a nature preserve on the Daintree Coast, where lush landscapes meet the Coral Sea.
Cow Bay Beach
46.0 km
Discover the pristine beauty and adventure of Cow Bay Beach in Queensland, where lush rainforests meet turquoise waters.
daintree wilderness camp
46.9 km
Experience the Daintree Rainforest's beauty at this camping farm with rainforest walks, diverse wildlife, and a tranquil cafe, near Cow Bay, QLD.
Cape Tribulation
47.9 km
Explore the enchanting Cape Tribulation, where the ancient rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef, offering a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Kulki Rainforest Walk
47.9 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of the Kulki Rainforest Walk, a must-visit hiking area in Queensland's pristine rainforest.
Myall Beach
47.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Myall Beach, where the rainforest meets the reef in Queensland's stunning Cape Tribulation.
Kulki Boardwalk
48.0 km
Discover panoramic rainforest and ocean views on this accessible boardwalk in Cape Tribulation, where two World Heritage areas meet.
Essential places to dine
Thornton’s
48.9 km
Discover Thornton's: A delightful restaurant offering fresh seafood and local dishes set against breathtaking views in Queensland's tropical paradise.
Daintree Crocodylus
49.4 km
Discover tranquility at Daintree Crocodylus - where lush rainforests meet exceptional vegan dining and comfortable accommodations.
Daintree Rainforest Retreat
51.1 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Daintree Rainforest Retreat - your gateway to exploring Australia's ancient rainforest.
Daintree Siesta Restaurant
52.0 km
Experience exquisite dining at Daintree Siesta Restaurant, where fresh local ingredients meet breathtaking rainforest views.
Wrasse & Roe
55.4 km
Experience the freshest seafood and vibrant coastal flavors at Wrasse & Roe in Port Douglas, where every dish tells a story of the sea.
Hi Tide by the beach
55.4 km
Experience fresh local cuisine with stunning beach views at Hi Tide by the Beach in Port Douglas – your ultimate dining destination.
Zinc Port Douglas
55.4 km
Discover Zinc Port Douglas: where modern Australian flavors meet tropical elegance in an unforgettable dining experience.
Nautilus Restaurant
55.4 km
Discover exquisite dining at Nautilus Restaurant in Port Douglas - where fresh local flavors meet enchanting tropical ambiance.
Epicurean Port Douglas
55.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Epicurean Port Douglas – where fresh local flavors meet exquisite dining in a tropical paradise.
Odori Sushi House
55.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Odori Sushi House in Port Douglas - a must-visit destination for sushi lovers seeking fresh flavors.
The Little Larder
55.5 km
Discover fresh flavors at The Little Larder in Port Douglas – where local ingredients meet laid-back dining in a charming setting.
The Little Red Kitchen
55.5 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and lunches at The Little Red Kitchen in Port Douglas – where every meal feels like home.
Rattle n Hum Port Douglas
55.5 km
Experience delightful dining at Rattle n Hum Port Douglas, where grilled specialties meet a lively beer garden in an unforgettable coastal atmosphere.
The Mexican - Port Douglas
55.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine in Port Douglas at The Mexican - where vibrant flavors meet tropical charm.
N17 burger co
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Discover gourmet burgers and craft beers at N17 Burger Co in Port Douglas - where flavor meets relaxation.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Friendly Grocer Convenience Store
48.4 km
Friendly Grocer Convenience Store in Cape Tribulation: Your essential stop for local groceries and supplies amid the breathtaking Daintree Rainforest.
Daintree Tea Company
52.0 km
Experience the tranquil charm of Daintree Tea Company, where exquisite local teas meet the breathtaking beauty of the Daintree Rainforest.
On The Turps
52.0 km
Experience the essence of Australian cuisine at On The Turps, a must-visit restaurant in Diwan, Queensland, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Marina Gurtzis Jewellery
52.1 km
Explore handcrafted jewelry at Marina Gurtzis Jewellery, showcasing local artistry in the heart of Queensland's natural beauty.
Daintree Fan Palm Farm
52.5 km
Explore the lush Daintree Fan Palm Farm for fresh organic produce, delicious coffee, and a unique tropical experience in Queensland.
The Eye Boutique
55.4 km
Discover unique clothing and swimwear at The Eye Boutique in Port Douglas, where style meets the spirit of the tropics.
Holiday Clothing
55.4 km
Discover stylish beachwear and casual clothing at Holiday Clothing, the perfect boutique for tourists wanting to embrace the laid-back Australian lifestyle.
Moonshine Bay
55.4 km
Shop at Moonshine Bay, Port Douglas for unique women's fashion pieces and a delightful shopping experience in a tropical paradise.
Portico Shopping Centre
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Port Douglas Happy Herb Shop
55.4 km
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Martinique Island Style
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Tzusk
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With Sugar
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Man Overboard
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Portobella Port Douglas
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cape Kimberley
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Cafe Crocs
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Jimmy Rum's Mixing Lounge
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Central Hotel Port Douglas
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Verandah Bar
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Pool Bar
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Daintree Bar and Lounge
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Experience unparalleled relaxation at Daintree Bar and Lounge, where tropical elegance meets a unique liquor selection in Port Douglas.
Barrier Reef Tavern
57.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Barrier Reef Tavern, a local favorite pub in the heart of Port Douglas, Queensland.
Port Douglas Plantation Resort & Licensed Bar & Cafe
58.7 km
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Daintree Ecolodge
59.8 km
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Julaymba Restaurant at Daintree Ecolodge
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Discover an eco-friendly dining experience at Julaymba Restaurant, where local flavors meet breathtaking rainforest views in the heart of Daintree.
Daintree Teahouse Restaurant
60.1 km
Discover the flavors of Australia at Daintree Teahouse Restaurant, a hidden gem in the heart of the rainforest offering unique native dishes and serene dining.
Daintree Village Hotel and General Store
62.1 km
Discover the Daintree Village Hotel and General Store, a vibrant hub of Australian culture, cuisine, and convenience in the breathtaking Daintree Rainforest.
Croc Xpresso Cafe
62.1 km
Discover the charm of Croc Xpresso Cafe in Daintree, where delicious coffee and delightful meals await in a picturesque setting.
Ellis Beach Bar & Grill
63.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Ellis Beach Bar & Grill, a coastal dining gem in Queensland.
