Discover the Enchantment of Heart Reef
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Heart Reef in the Great Barrier Reef, a must-visit natural wonder for every traveler seeking adventure and romance.
Heart Reef is an iconic natural wonder located in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. This heart-shaped coral formation is a stunning sight best viewed from above, making it a must-see for any tourist. Experience the breathtaking beauty of this underwater paradise, filled with vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters.
A brief summary to Heart Reef
- Heart Reef, Hardy Reef, Great Barrier Reef, AU
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your aerial tour in advance to secure the best time slots and pricing.
- Bring a camera or smartphone with good zoom capabilities for stunning aerial photos.
- Consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for an unforgettable view of the reef.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral ecosystem while enjoying water activities.
- Check weather conditions before your visit to ensure optimal viewing conditions.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Airlie Beach, head north on Shute Harbour Road (State Route 59) for approximately 10 minutes. Follow the signs for the ferry terminal (Shute Harbour) to catch a boat to the Whitsunday Islands. Park your car at the designated parking area near the ferry terminal. The ferry ride to Hamilton Island takes about 1 hour. Once on Hamilton Island, transfer to a scenic flight or a tour boat that offers trips to Heart Reef. Ensure to book your flight or tour in advance, as they can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.
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Public Transportation
From Airlie Beach, you can take a public bus to the Whitsunday Coast Airport. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes. From the airport, you can book a scenic flight that takes you directly to Heart Reef. Check local airlines for flight schedules and prices. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Airlie Beach to Hamilton Island and then book a tour or a flight to Heart Reef from there. Be sure to confirm the availability of flights or tours ahead of your visit.
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Tour Operator
Many tour operators in the Whitsundays offer packages that include transportation to Heart Reef. You can book a day tour from Airlie Beach that includes a boat ride or scenic flight to Heart Reef, often combined with snorkeling or other activities. Prices vary based on the package, so check multiple operators for the best deal. Make sure to arrive at the designated meeting point early, as tours typically depart on time.
Discover more about Heart Reef
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maureens Cove
45.9 km
Discover the enchanting Maureen's Cove, a family-friendly children's camp on Hook Island, offering adventure, nature, and unforgettable memories.
Cateran Bay
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Blue Pearl Bay 1, Hayman Island, QLD
49.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Blue Pearl Bay, a top scenic spot in the Whitsundays, known for its vibrant marine life and pristine beaches.
Chalkie's Beach
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Hill Inlet
59.7 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Hill Inlet in the Whitsundays - a paradise of turquoise waters and white sands.
Whitehaven
60.8 km
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Dugong Beach
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Discover the serene beauty of Dugong Beach in Whitsundays, Queensland - a perfect camping ground for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Whitsunday Adventurer
65.9 km
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Pioneer Adventures
65.9 km
Discover the thrill of adventure with Pioneer Adventures - the ultimate tour operator for unforgettable experiences in Australia's stunning landscapes.
Whitsunday Getaways
65.9 km
Explore the captivating beauty of the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef with Whitsunday Getaways, your premier tour operator for unforgettable adventures.
Waltzing Matilda Sailing
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Discover the magic of the Great Barrier Reef with personalized sailing tours at Waltzing Matilda Sailing, where adventure meets tranquility.
qualia
69.5 km
Discover unparalleled luxury at Qualia, a premier resort hotel in the Whitsundays, where stunning views meet exquisite service in a tropical paradise.
One Tree Hill
69.8 km
Experience breathtaking sunsets at One Tree Hill, the premier bar on Hamilton Island offering stunning views and refreshing cocktails.
Hideaway Bay
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Catseye Bay
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Unmissable attractions to see
Reef World - Cruise Whitsundays
7.6 km
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Mantaray Bay
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Migration of the Mantas
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Luncheon Bay
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Dolphin Point Lookout
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Discover the stunning views and serene atmosphere at Dolphin Point Lookout on Hayman Island, a must-visit destination in Queensland's Whitsunday Islands.
Hayman Island
48.4 km
Explore Hayman Island, a tropical haven featuring pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and luxurious resorts in the stunning Whitsundays, Australia.
Border Island
48.7 km
Explore Border Island in the Whitsundays: a paradise of pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, and lush landscapes perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Whitsunday Passage Lookout
49.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Whitsunday Passage Lookout on Hayman Island, where stunning views and lush landscapes await.
WHITSUNDAYS QLD
49.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Whitsundays, Queensland – a tropical paradise of stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, perfect for every traveler.
Hook Island
50.4 km
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Black Island
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Dumbell Island
50.9 km
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Langford Island
51.8 km
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Whitsunday Cairn
52.5 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Whitsunday Islands at Whitsunday Cairn, a must-visit rocky vantage point in Queensland.
Cairns Lookout
52.6 km
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Essential places to dine
Bam Bam at Intercontinental Hayman Island
49.0 km
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Amici Trattoria
49.0 km
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Pacific Restaurant
49.1 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Pacific Restaurant on Hayman Island in Queensland's stunning Whitsundays.
Aqua Restaurant at Intercontinental Hayman Island
49.3 km
Discover exquisite dining at Aqua Restaurant on Hayman Island, where local flavors meet stunning ocean views in an unforgettable culinary experience.
Pebble Beach at qualia
69.3 km
Discover Pebble Beach at qualia - where modern Australian cuisine meets breathtaking views in the heart of Whitsundays.
The Long Pavilion at qualia
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Experience the pinnacle of fine dining at The Long Pavilion in Hamilton Island – where modern Australian cuisine meets breathtaking views.
Salti Restaurant and Bar
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Discover delicious dining at Salti Restaurant and Bar on Daydream Island—where stunning views meet mouthwatering cuisine.
Infinity Restaurant
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Experience culinary excellence with stunning ocean views at Infinity Restaurant on Daydream Island, Whitsundays.
Graze Interactive Dining
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Sails Restaurant
70.4 km
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Verandah Bar
70.4 km
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Pool Terrace Restaurant
70.5 km
Experience exquisite modern Australian cuisine at Pool Terrace Restaurant in Whitsundays, surrounded by stunning views and lush landscapes.
Sporties staff bar
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Romano's Italian Restaurant
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Pizzeria and Gelato bar
70.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Hamilton Island's Pizzeria and Gelato Bar - perfect for family dinners or romantic sunsets over Whitsundays.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
qualia Boutique
69.3 km
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Resort Store
70.4 km
Explore the Resort Store in Whitsundays for a unique boutique shopping experience featuring local art, beachwear, and unforgettable souvenirs.
Hamilton Island Jewellery
70.4 km
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Australia the Gift - Australian Souvenir & Gift Store
70.5 km
Explore Australia the Gift in Whitsundays for unique souvenirs, authentic Australian goods, and stylish beach clothing to remember your trip!
Trader Petes
70.5 km
Experience the heart of Whitsundays at Trader Petes, your local general store for essential supplies and unique souvenirs.
Towers Lobby Shop
70.5 km
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Hamilton Island Art Gallery
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The Hut Surf Shop
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Hamilton Island Designs
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SALT
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The Deckhouse
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Front Street Botique
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Floral Collections
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Hamilton Island Bottle Shop
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Hamilton Island IGA
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Fifty
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Splashes Wet Bar
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Tonic
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Island Bar
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Bougainvillaea Bar
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Beach Pavillion
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Reef View Lounge
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Reef View Hotel
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Garden Bar
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Hamilton Island Yacht Club
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Bommie Deck Bar
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Bommie Deck Bar in Whitsundays – the perfect tropical retreat for relaxation and enjoyment.
AV8 Airport Bar
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Clubhouse
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Experience the ultimate dining adventure at Clubhouse on Dent Island, where gourmet cuisine meets breathtaking views in Hamilton Island.
Amo Bar & Lounge
77.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Amo Bar & Lounge in Airlie Beach, offering fantastic drinks and a vibrant social scene for travelers.
Magnums Hotel
77.9 km
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