Book an exclusive scenic helicopter ride from Hamilton Island and land at Heart Reef pontoon to snorkel this iconic location. Airplane scenic flights and helicopter rides depart from Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island and combine scenic flights to Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach and other iconic Whitsundays locations. Choose from over 15 ways to see Heart Reef on the Great Barrier Reef.
Heart Reef in the Whitsunday Islands is one of the most photographed coral reefs on the Great Barrier Reef due to it's natural growth formation in the shape of a love heart.
Heart Reef was first discovered in 1975 by Air Whitsundays and has since become an internationally recognised attraction which features on television programmes, brochures and in documentaries.
Heart Reef in the Whitsunday Islands is one of the most photographed coral reefs on the Great Barrier Reef due to it's natural growth formation in the shape of a love heart.
Heart Reef was first discovered in 1975 by Air Whitsundays and has since become an internationally recognised attraction which features on television programmes, brochures and in documentaries.
Explore Heart Reef with Barrier Reef Australia, your ultimate guide to the heart-shaped marvel of the Whitsunday Islands
Why is Heart Reef Famous?
A spectacular heart-shaped coral formation, is famed for its unique natural structure that captures the essence of romance and beauty in the Great Barrier Reef. Its distinct heart shape, visible from the air, has made it an iconic symbol and a highly sought-after sight for visitors from around the world.
Exclusive Access and Preservation
As a protected coral reef structure, Heart Reef is exclusively accessible through authorized tour operators, ensuring its pristine condition is maintained. This exclusivity underscores its importance as a natural treasure and ensures sustainable tourism practices.
Activities and Restrictions on Heart Reef
While swimming directly at Heart Reef is prohibited to protect its delicate ecosystem, visitors can still enjoy a range of activities. Scenic helicopter flights provide stunning aerial views, and guests can experience the reef's beauty up close from a nearby pontoon through snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours.
Location and Journey
Heart Reef is part of the outer Great Barrier Reef on Hardy Reef. From Hamilton Island, helicopter flights to Heart Reef take about 30 minutes, offering a quick and mesmerizing travel experience. Similarly, seaplane flights from Airlie Beach provide swift and scenic access to the reef.
How Big is Heart Reef?
Despite its immense popularity, Heart Reef is relatively small, measuring about 17 meters across, a testament to nature's ability to create significant beauty in small packages.
How Was Heart Reef Formed?
The formation of Heart Reef is a fascinating geological story. Over thousands of years, the slow and persistent growth of hard corals has given rise to this heart-shaped structure. Coral polyps, the tiny living organisms responsible for building coral reefs, have gradually deposited limestone structures that, through natural processes and currents, have formed this unique heart shape. This natural wonder highlights the intricate and delicate balance of marine ecosystems.
Best Ways to Visit and Explore Heart Reef
Heart Reef stands as a symbol of natural beauty and ecological significance in the Whitsunday Islands. Its unique formation, coupled with the sustainable and exclusive nature of the tours, makes it an essential visit for those seeking to witness one of nature's most extraordinary creations.
Another icon not to be missed in the Whitsundays is Whitehaven Beach.
Keep up with all things Great Barrier Reef here on our Barrier Reef Australia blog pages.
Heart Reef in the Whitsunday Islands is one of the most photographed coral reefs on the Great Barrier Reef due to it's natural growth formation in the shape of a love heart.
Heart Reef in the Whitsunday Islands is one of the most photographed coral reefs on the Great Barrier Reef due to it's natural growth formation in the shape of a love heart.
Heart Reef was first discovered in 1975 by Air Whitsundays and has since become an internationally recognised attraction which features on television programmes, brochures and in documentaries.
Explore Heart Reef with Barrier Reef Australia, your ultimate guide to the heart-shaped marvel of the Whitsunday Islands
Why is Heart Reef Famous?
A spectacular heart-shaped coral formation, is famed for its unique natural structure that captures the essence of romance and beauty in the Great Barrier Reef. Its distinct heart shape, visible from the air, has made it an iconic symbol and a highly sought-after sight for visitors from around the world.
Exclusive Access and Preservation
As a protected coral reef structure, Heart Reef is exclusively accessible through authorized tour operators, ensuring its pristine condition is maintained. This exclusivity underscores its importance as a natural treasure and ensures sustainable tourism practices.
Activities and Restrictions on Heart Reef
While swimming directly at Heart Reef is prohibited to protect its delicate ecosystem, visitors can still enjoy a range of activities. Scenic helicopter flights provide stunning aerial views, and guests can experience the reef's beauty up close from a nearby pontoon through snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours.
Location and Journey
Heart Reef is part of the outer Great Barrier Reef on Hardy Reef. From Hamilton Island, helicopter flights to Heart Reef take about 30 minutes, offering a quick and mesmerizing travel experience. Similarly, seaplane flights from Airlie Beach provide swift and scenic access to the reef.
How Big is Heart Reef?
Despite its immense popularity, Heart Reef is relatively small, measuring about 17 meters across, a testament to nature's ability to create significant beauty in small packages.
How Was Heart Reef Formed?
The formation of Heart Reef is a fascinating geological story. Over thousands of years, the slow and persistent growth of hard corals has given rise to this heart-shaped structure. Coral polyps, the tiny living organisms responsible for building coral reefs, have gradually deposited limestone structures that, through natural processes and currents, have formed this unique heart shape. This natural wonder highlights the intricate and delicate balance of marine ecosystems.
Best Ways to Visit and Explore Heart Reef
Heart Reef stands as a symbol of natural beauty and ecological significance in the Whitsunday Islands. Its unique formation, coupled with the sustainable and exclusive nature of the tours, makes it an essential visit for those seeking to witness one of nature's most extraordinary creations.
Another icon not to be missed in the Whitsundays is Whitehaven Beach.
Keep up with all things Great Barrier Reef here on our Barrier Reef Australia blog pages.
Half Day Sea Kayaking tour suitable for experienced paddlers and beginners. Daily trips from Airlie Beach Shute Harbour.
Departing: Shute Harbour
Pickup: Airlie Beach
From
Charter boat Airlie Beach. Snorkelling & scuba diving tours. No experience required. Small group maximum 6 introductory divers or 8 certified divers.
Departing: Airlie Beach
From
Whitehaven Beach on one of our most popular private charter boats. Perfect for small group, maximum 10 guests.
Departing: Airlie Beach
From
Enjoy a 60 minute scenic flight over the Whitsunday Islands, Great Barrier Reef, Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet!
Departing: Airlie Beach
Pickup: Airlie Beach
From
Explore North & South Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet Lookout. Spend up to 6 hours exploring the beaches and coves and climbing Hill Inlet
Departing: Airlie Beach
From
Jetskiing tours from Airlie Beach. Join us on a one hour jet ski tour from Airlie Beach and enjoy the sites around Shute Harbour, the bays and islands of the beautiful Whitsundays
Departing: Airlie Beach
From