There are over 1,000 islands in the Great Barrier Reef, but the best are easily accessible from the main centres of Cairns and Port Douglas. The reef islands are in fact two distinct types of formations - vegetated coral cays and mountainous continental islands which were once part of the mainland. Both styles have diverse vegetation including rainforest, and are encircled by coral reefs. Accommodation ranges from camping grounds and bungalows to luxurious resorts, and many have activities included in the tariff.

Lizard Island is a resort island renowned for deep sea fishing, some 80kms north, of Cooktown.

The Low Isles, 15 kms off Port Douglas, is a picturesque destination for day visitors and the location of one of the most famous lighthouses on the coast. Palm Cove's appeal is enhanced by nearby Double Island, the site of a small exclusive resort.

 Green and Fitzroy Islands are the closest to Cairns, and easily accessible on day tour excursions via a catamaran cruise. Green Island is a small 12 hectare coral cay and features a low-rise resort, an underwater observatory and Marineland Melanesia. The major natural attractions of nearby Fitzroy Island are the rainforest and island walks, including a guided tour of the clam farm.

The Frankland Islands are a group of five islands protected at a National Park within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, accessible to visitors via a day cruise departing from Deeral, 45 minutes south of Cairns.

Popular Dunk Island appears to be only metres from the township of Mission Beach. It is, in fact a five minute boat ride but seems a million miles away from the mainland. Beyond Dunk are the exclusive hideaways of Bedarra and Orpheus Islands, which feature villas and bures set amidst tropical greenery and private beaches approaching perfection.