Natures Calendar

The circle of life on Lady Elliot Island turns in accordance with the rhythm set by Mother Nature. Every season brings new changes and fresh surprises …

Lady Elliot Island - Great Barrier Reef - Australia

November to February -  The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most important sea turtle habitats in the world and every year the Green and Logger head turtles lumber up the same beach on which they were born more than 50 years ago. These gentle giants nest on Lady Elliot Island up to nine times in a season, laying between 80 and 180 eggs per clutch. Under the careful guidance of our Turtle ranges, guests of all ages can experience this amazing phenomena.

February to April - At the end of the nesting season thousands of baby turtles push through their sand nest on their way to the sea. This wonder of nature occurs only metres from the resort beach front balconies and can be observed at close quarters by all.

Whale Watching

June to October - From late June to October these graceful creatures migrate past Lady Elliot Island. Regular sightings occur on the scenic flights, whilst snorkelling and diving from the diving boat and from the Islands beaches. Almost daily, during the season whale songs can be heard under the water while swimming around Lady Elliot Island.

November - December - Coral spawning is a spectacular, mass-synchronised event not known in any other part of the animal kingdom. When the waters warm up in late Spring and early Summer, the coral polyps release their eggs and sperm which float to the surface in a dense cloud of pink, red, orange and sometimes purple micro-organisms. When the eggs are fertilized, they drift across the reef with the tides, descending into deeper water after a few days to create a new coral colony.

October to April - The island is a breeding and nesting ground for many species of tropical seabirds and wading birds. The crested terns lay their eggs in the open, while bridled terns and silver gulls prefer to nest under shrubs. Black-naped terns are also common on the island along with the spectacular brown boobies, lesser frigate birds and a small colony of red tailed tropic birds. Up to 50 000 sea birds choose Lady Elliot to mate and raise their young every year. Regular guided tours allow guest to learn about the delicate balance at play in this ecosystem from their migration to their more unique characteristics. The excellent close up opportunities for photographers are realised everyday during the season.

Marine Wonderland

May to June - Although the colour and beauty of the Great Barrier Reef is on your doorstep all year round, water visibility during May and June is excellent. Compare the average visibility of over 30 metres and warmer water than the Southern states during summer.