Along the East Coast of Australia: Beaches & the Great Barrier Reef

Auckland, one of New Zealand's most populous cities, is located on the North Island of New Zealand. Auckland, known as Tamaki Makaurau, is based around twin harbours called Waitemata and Manukau Harbour extending up to volcanic hills to the west. Auckland has so much to offer when you combine an urban environment, stunning diverse landscapes and warming polynesian culture. Read more about Auckland, New Zealand

The Bay of Islands - the first permanent European settlement and sea port in New Zealand - is an area in the Northland region of the North Island of New Zealand. Located 60 km NW of Whangarei it is close to the northern tip of the country. The bay is the busiest, yet quietest place you'll ever come to. Read more about Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Norfolk Island is a small inhabited island in the Pacific Ocean located between Australia, New Zealand and New Caledonia. With a sub-tropical climate tempered by the surrounding sea, tourists will find a host of things to do, including bush walking, visiting elegant convict-built Georgian buildings, bicycling, and fishing. Visit Emily Bay, where the great crescent shaped beach offers excellent safe swimming for families and snorkelling over coral reefs. Read more about Norfolk Island, Australia

Lady Elliott Island - ‘Home fo the Manta Ray’ - 110 acres in area and only 5 m at its highest point, lies 75 km east of the coast of Queensland, Australia. It is owned by the Commonwealth of Australia. The island is the southernmost coral cay of the Great Barrier Reef, which extends 2600 km to the north. Read more about Lady Elliot Island, Australia

Part of the Southern Great Barrier Reef, this island is famed for its clear waters, white sand beaches, and thriving coral ecosystems. Visitors can explore marine life by snorkeling and diving or enjoy the scenic landscapes through hiking trails. The island’s beaches are some of the most pristine in Queensland. Read more about Great Keppel (Wop-pa) Island, Australia

Percy Island (aka Middle Percy Island), one of The Percy Group of 8 islands on the Great Barrier Reef, is located 87 km off the Queensland coast, and 125 km SE of Mackay. The island was charted by Captain Cook and Matthew Flinders. The island is 6 km at its broadest, and frequently visited by yachts that anchor at West Bay, one of half a dozen sandy beaches. Read more about Percy Island, Australia

Bordered by the Great Barrier Reef in the calm waters of the Coral Sea, the 74 tropical islands of the Whitsundays lie midway up the Queensland coast. A secluded haven of natural wonders, they are Australia's answer to the cruising grounds of the Caribbean. A visit to the Whitsundays - surrounded by natural beauty, dotted with secluded beaches, and friendly towns from which to explore - is a wonderful experience. Read more about Whitsundays, Australia

Located near Townsville, this island is part of the Great Barrier Reef and offers stunning beaches, rocky landscapes, and wildlife, including koalas. It’s known for its many hiking trails and secluded coves, making it a favorite for nature lovers. The island has a laid-back vibe, with local resorts and water sports activities. Read more about Magnetic Island, Australia

Cairns is a Far North Queensland city located on the northeast coast of Australia. This laid-back city is just over a 2 hour flight from Brisbane, Queensland’s state capital. With a backdrop of rainforest mountains, Cairns is known to be the gateway of 2 iconic Australian sites, The Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest. Read more about Cairns, Australia