Mantaray Bay: A Serene Haven in the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef
Discover the enchanting beauty of Mantaray Bay, a tranquil swimming basin teeming with marine life in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
Mantaray Bay offers an unparalleled experience for tourists seeking tranquility and natural beauty amidst the vibrant marine life of the Great Barrier Reef. This stunning swimming basin invites you to dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish and majestic manta rays, making it a paradise for snorkelers and swimmers alike.
A brief summary to Mantaray Bay
- Coastal Waters Of Great Barrier Reefs, Whitsundays, AU
Local tips
- Bring your own snorkeling gear to fully enjoy the vibrant underwater life.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best chances of spotting manta rays.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, as amenities are limited in the area.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment while swimming.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from Airlie Beach, which is the main hub in the Whitsunday Islands. Take Shute Harbour Road and follow the signs toward the Whitsunday Coast Airport. Once you reach the airport, continue on the same road until you reach Shute Harbour. From Shute Harbour, you'll need to take a ferry. There are regular ferry services that operate to various islands in the Whitsundays, including Mantaray Bay. The ferry ride offers beautiful views of the coastal waters. Keep in mind that ferry tickets typically cost around AUD 30-50 one way, so plan accordingly.
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Public Transportation
For those relying on public transportation, start by taking a bus from your accommodation in Airlie Beach to Shute Harbour. The bus service is frequent and takes about 30 minutes. Once at Shute Harbour, purchase a ferry ticket to Mantaray Bay. Ensure you check the ferry schedule in advance, as departure times can vary. The ferry will take approximately 30 minutes to reach Mantaray Bay, where you can enjoy the stunning coastal waters of the Great Barrier Reef.
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Ferry
After arriving at Shute Harbour, board the ferry that is heading towards Mantaray Bay. The ferry ride is one of the highlights of the journey, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and clear blue waters. Keep your camera ready as you may spot marine life along the way. Make sure to confirm the ferry's return schedule to plan your day accordingly, as the last ferry back may be earlier than you expect.
Discover more about Mantaray Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maureens Cove
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Blue Pearl Bay 1, Hayman Island, QLD
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Cateran Bay
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Dugong Beach
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Hill Inlet
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Whitehaven
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Chalkie's Beach
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Whitsunday Adventurer
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Whitsunday Getaways
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Waltzing Matilda Sailing
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qualia
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One Tree Hill
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coca chu
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Catseye Bay
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Manta Ray
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Unmissable attractions to see
Migration of the Mantas
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Luncheon Bay
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Hook Island
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Hayman Island
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Black Island
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Dolphin Point Lookout
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Whitsunday Passage Lookout
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WHITSUNDAYS QLD
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Langford Island
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Nara Inlet
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Whitsunday Cairn
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Cairns Lookout
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Dumbell Island
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Border Island
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Tongue Bay
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Essential places to dine
Bam Bam at Intercontinental Hayman Island
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Pacific Restaurant
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Amici Trattoria
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Aqua Restaurant at Intercontinental Hayman Island
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Salti Restaurant and Bar
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Infinity Restaurant
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Graze Interactive Dining
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Pebble Beach at qualia
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The Long Pavilion at qualia
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Popeye's Fish and Chips Takeaway
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Marina Tavern
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Sporties staff bar
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Romano's Italian Restaurant
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Verandah Bar
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Sails Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
qualia Boutique
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The Hut Surf Shop
31.5 km
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Hamilton Island Art Gallery
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Hamilton Island Designs
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SALT
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Front Street Botique
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The Deckhouse
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Floral Collections
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Resort Store
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Hamilton Island Jewellery
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Trader Petes
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Australia the Gift - Australian Souvenir & Gift Store
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Hamilton Island Bottle Shop
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Towers Lobby 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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Garden Bar
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Hamilton Island Yacht Club
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Bommie Deck Bar
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Bougainvillaea Bar
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Reef View Lounge
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Beach Pavillion
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Reef View Hotel
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AV8 Airport Bar
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Clubhouse
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Amo Bar & Lounge
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Magnums Hotel
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